JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK - ENVIRONEMNT

News: The Supreme Court's recent hearing on a plea against the Jim Corbett National Park's decision to allow private operator's buses to ply within the core area of the tiger reserve in Uttarakhand has brought to the forefront the delicate balance between conservation and development.

 

What’s in the news?

Importance of Balance:

  • The Supreme Court's emphasis on balancing rights highlights the need for a nuanced approach towards conservation.
  • On one hand, there is a need to protect India's rich biodiversity and preserve natural habitats for future generations.
  • On the other hand, there are legitimate concerns about livelihoods and economic development.

How can balance between conservation and development be achieved?

Achieving a balance between conservation and development in the case of Jim Corbett National Park requires a multi-faceted approach.

  • Sustainable Tourism: Implement responsible and regulated tourism practices that prioritize wildlife viewing and minimize human impact on the ecosystem. This can include:
    • Limiting the number of tourists and vehicles entering the park.
    • Implementing eco-friendly transportation options, such as electric or solar-powered vehicles.
    • Providing education and awareness programs for tourists on responsible wildlife viewing and park rules.
  • Alternative Livelihoods: Support alternative livelihood options for local communities that reduce their dependence on forest resources and promote coexistence with wildlife. This can include:
    • Promoting ecotourism-related jobs, such as guides, hospitality staff, and nature interpreters.
    • Encouraging sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming and permaculture.
    • Supporting local entrepreneurship in crafts, handicrafts, and other non-forest-based industries.
  • Compensation Mechanisms: Establish fair compensation mechanisms for local communities affected by conservation efforts. This can include:
    • Providing financial compensation for crop damage or livestock loss due to wildlife conflict.
    • Offering alternative land use options or relocation packages for communities living within the park's boundaries.
  • Community Engagement: Foster active community engagement in conservation efforts through participatory decision-making processes. This can include:
    • Establishing village-level conservation committees to monitor human-wildlife conflict and develop mitigation strategies.
    • Conducting regular community outreach programs to educate locals about conservation goals and benefits.
  • Infrastructure Development: Develop infrastructure that supports both conservation and development goals

About Jim Corbett National Park:

  • Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest national park, established in 1936.
  • It is named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist, Jim Corbett.
  • The park is part of Project Tiger, a conservation program launched in 1973 to protect Bengal tigers.
  • The core area of Jim Corbett National Park spans around 312 square kilometers.
  • The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is home to over 500 species of plants, 600 species of birds, and a wide range of fauna, including the majestic Bengal tiger.
  • It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, attracting millions of visitors every year.
  • Core Area: The core area of a national park or wildlife sanctuary refers to the most sensitive and protected zone within the reserve.
    • This area is designated as a habitat for endangered species and is strictly protected from human interference.

The core area is typically free from human settlements, agriculture, and other anthropogenic activities that could harm the ecosystem.

Source: https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2024/07/12/lgd27-sc-corbett-bus.html