of the abstract.
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If at least one review has been provided by the co-conveners, this icon appears.
If at least one comment has been provided by the (co-)conveners, this icon appears.Pooja Chaudhary
Rayal, Rajesh; Uniyal, V.P
Abstract/Description
The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is a crucial life support system known for its rich biodiversity and essential ecosystem services, including hosting four global biodiversity hotspots. Degradation of ecosystem in IHR is caused by the climate related catastrophe such as forest fire, floods, drought and human interference increasing vulnerability . This study focuses on the ecological, cultural and socio-economic roles of Hariyali Devi sacred grove in the Dhanpur range of Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand, exploring the community managed forest and sacred grove. Hariyali Devi sacred grove is situated at 3000 masl is a temperate broadleaf mixed forest, surrounded by plants like Quercus leucotrichophora, Rhododendron arboreum, Quercus semecarpifolia, Abres spectabilis), and Lyonia ovalifolia. Presence of ethnomedicinal plants make this sacred grove a unique site for conservation. The research aims to examine the key differences between these forests, assessing biodiversity, ecosystem services as well as the impact of management practices on forest health. Additionally, the study will investigate the economic role of Community Forest in providing natural resources. The study will be depended on the field surveys for ecological assessments, interviews and participatory workshops. In context of climate change by external pressures like anthropogenic activities the study will assess the sustainability and resilience of both forest management systems. Preliminary findings suggest that sacred groves tend to maintain stable ecological outcomes due to cultural protection, while community-managed forests provide significant livelihood resources but face challenges from over-exploitation. Further investigation will address community participation in conservation efforts and develop a model that balances ecological sustainability with socio-economic development. Conclusively this study will seek to solution for sustainable forest management and promote collaborative approach to stakeholders to tackle climate change in the IHR. By integrating scientific knowledge with local practices, we aim to enhance the resilience of Himalayan ecosystems through active community involvement in conservation initiatives.
