Conservation Policies, Eco-Tourism, and End of Pastoralism in Indian Himalaya?

A critical analysis of conservation policies in Khangchendzonga National Park, India, reveals that the fortress model—combining pastoralist removal and eco-tourism promotion—fails to benefit either biodiversity or local communities. The study found that grazing bans and tourism-driven transitions from traditional yak herding to non-native livestock disrupted pastoral culture, reduced economic stability, and altered vegetation diversity, while increasing human-wildlife conflicts. Using mixed methods (48 interviews, 10 key informant discussions, and two focused group sessions), researchers concluded that current policies prioritize state interests over inclusive development, often harming both society and ecology. The findings underscore the need for trans-boundary conservation planning that integrates pastoralist practices to balance cultural preservation with ecological goals.

Singh, R., Sharma, R. K., Bhutia, T. U., Bhutia, K., & Babu, S. (2021). Conservation Policies, Eco-Tourism, and End of Pastoralism in Indian Himalaya? Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 5. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2021.613998