Articles by Ghazala Shahabuddin

An inequitable and top-down approach, lacking scientific, historical and socio-economic considerations, has historically exemplified protected area management strategy in Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan. Attempts to evict local villagers without evidence of effective rehabilitation measures are a natural corollary of this policy. This paper appraises the role of village relocation as a management tool for wildlife conservation in the reserve by (1) documenting the forest dependency and livelihood conflicts faced by local residents who will be displaced; (2) identifying the aspirations of the proposed oustees in relation to the proposed displacement; and (3) studying the process of relocation planning and the rehabilitation package. It also suggests more participatory and rational ways to deal with the issue.

Debates on relocation of affected communities from areas declared protected still appear, in many cases, to closely mirror similar concerns in the 19th and early 20th centuries, when forest management was tailored to suit colonial interests. However, as a recent seminar on relocation revealed, there has been of late a significant improvement in approaches adopted towards relocation as increasing numbers of forest managers seek to sensitively consider aspects of equity and justice. But while a comprehensive approach linking PA management with people's livelihoods on a regional scale is needed, such approaches also need to be locale-specific rather than a blueprint solution to meet all needs.