Development of underdevelopment : Facets of deforestation and displacement in Orissa

Abstract

Secondary sources are tapped to show how dams, mining, deforestation, construction of roads, railways, etc. in the State of Orissa have unleashed unintended consequences for the deprived sections, particularly the displaced and victimised tribals in the western inland regions who, without proper rehabilitation, have not only been completely alienated from their original habitat and culture but have also been estranged from their traditional sources of sustainable livelihood in the forest economy. If ‘development’ is to be seen in a proper perspective, there is need for the policy makers to reorient themselves and take cognisance of the unintended negative consequences of their development projects, in terms of ecological sustainability, socio-cultural relevance, as well as local needs and demands, long before those projects are initiated.