Research & Publications on Forests and Livelihoods

The concept of Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) is highly relevant to the Indian context as it is a cost-effective option to cover large degraded forests rapidly. It envisages adopting a holistic view of greening that goes beyond tree planting in order to attain the goal of carbon sequestration and biodiversity enhancement through ecosystem restoration while at the same time developing the socio economic security of tribal communities.

This paper details the implementation of an FLR initiative in three demonstration plots in Sheopur and Dindori, Madhya Pradesh which are the homes of the Sahariyas and Baigas tribes, with a focus on restoration and effective community engagement.

Preliminary observations have produced promising results in terms of social engagement and financial income generated from the harvest. In addition soil and moisture conservation through the adoption of 400–500 saplings/ha indicate a rapid greening and significant carbon sequestration.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Climate change has had a direct and measurable impact on the livelihoods of local communities in Sheopur.
• There has been an observable trend in declining plant species within the forest due to changing climate patterns.
• Significant alteration in precipitation patterns (decrease in overall rainfall and more extreme events) is affecting agricultural crops more frequently.
• Over the past two decades, productivity or availability of NTFP has decreased by more than 30%.
• Identified FLR interventions have brought positive results in all three sample plots of Sheopur.

SUMMARY

This study investigates the measurable impacts of climate change on biodiversity and livelihoods within the tropical dry deciduous forest of Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh, India. With climate change emerging as a significant global concern, its effects on delicate ecosystems like the tropical dry deciduous forest are of paramount importance. Through field surveys, data analysis, and community engagement, the study evaluates changes in vegetation and impacts on local livelihoods resulting from shifting climatic patterns. The findings underscore the critical need for adaptive strategies to mitigate adverse consequences on biodiversity and community well-being.

Keywords: non-timber forest product (NTFP), biodiversity, climate extremes, vulnerability, adaptation, mitigation