Animal-human coexistence
Conservation of the oak forest is the solution
I believe conservation is possible only when the needs of both people and wildlife are met. In my seven years of research in the Himalayas, I have focused on finding ways to promote this, inspired by my childhood experiences of living alongside wildlife. This helped me devise a novel paradigm for animal-human coexistence using the Himalayan langur as a model. I found that oak (Q. leucotrichophora) is the key species for the conservation of the entire Himalayan habitat and survival of native fauna. I have initiated the restoration of the degraded oak forest through the planting of oak surrounding the study villages and planting alternative trees that can be used as fodder for domestic animals. This will reduce langurs and other wildlife visitation rates at the adjacent crop fields
I believe conservation is possible only when the needs of both people and wildlife are met. In my seven years of research in the Himalayas, I have focused on finding ways to promote this, inspired by my childhood experiences of living alongside wildlife. This helped me devise a novel paradigm for animal-human coexistence using the Himalayan langur as a model. I found that oak (Q. leucotrichophora) is the key species for the conservation of the entire Himalayan habitat and survival of native fauna. I have initiated the restoration of the degraded oak forest through the planting of oak surrounding the study villages and planting alternative trees that can be used as fodder for domestic animals. This will reduce langurs and other wildlife visitation rates at the adjacent crop fields
Environmental education is the solution
Outreach to children is an important strategy for forest protection as they are the future decision-makers and they can influence the behavior of their parents. I have begun outreach programs in six villages by engaging them in different competitive activities to enhance their interest in nature. Taking children into the forest offers them first-hand experience with wildlife that they might not have free of the cultural interpretations of the value of wildlife from the perspective of adults, who often see them as a threat.
Outreach to children is an important strategy for forest protection as they are the future decision-makers and they can influence the behavior of their parents. I have begun outreach programs in six villages by engaging them in different competitive activities to enhance their interest in nature. Taking children into the forest offers them first-hand experience with wildlife that they might not have free of the cultural interpretations of the value of wildlife from the perspective of adults, who often see them as a threat.
Empowerment of women in the community is the solution
Nearly 95% of all agricultural work, the collection of fodder and firewood is done by women. Despite their central role as caregivers and providers, they receive very little return for their efforts. Providing basic education and the means of obtaining alternative incomes empowers women, giving them choices and means to sustainably use forest resources. This, in turn, indirectly promotes the conservation of wildlife and natural resources.
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