Biosphere Reserves of India: Issues of Conservation and Conflict

Abstract

The biosphere reserves (BRs) of India are the repository of biodiversity as well as the abode of many traditional societies. Such traditional societies derive many of their livelihood requirements from the rich biodiversity around them. All the more, the BRs also contribute to food security of the people within their premises. Many of the forest-linked activities of the traditional societies are mediated through rich traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). Unfortunately, while the issues of biodiversity have been addressed at length, the cultural diversity has been relegated to the point of oblivion. The BR management, therefore, necessitates understanding not only of ecological issues, but also socio-economic and cultural issues linked with the former. The present article looks into the development of the concept of BR and issues related with it in general terms and with respect to India in particular. It also ponders over the measures to reduce pressure on BR resources.