Report and Opinion, 2009;1(4), Gairola, et al., Biodiversity and sustainable development in Garhwal Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Rural Development in the Garhwal Himalaya

Abstract: In the present paper we have reviewed the link between socio-economic conditions of the villagers in the Garhwal Himalaya with forest resources. Well being of Local people and forest are intricately linked with each other. Increased resource dependency on surrounding forests and unplanned extraction is negatively affecting the biodiversity of the region. Lack of employment opportunities is the major cause of dependency of rural people on forest for livelihood, which is causing degradation of forest and forcing people to migrate to cities in search of jobs. Proper planning and management by Government in association with local people in tapping forest resources like medicinal plants and NTFP’s will certainly improve socio-economic conditions of the people and reduce unnecessary pressure on the forest resources. [Report and Opinion. 2009;1(4):6-12]. (ISSN: 1553-9873)