Author(s): Nidhi Yadav, Naresh Chandra Sahu, Dukhabandhu Sahoo and Meenakshi Gupta
Purpose - The purpose of this study is to assess the quantifiable advantages derived by local communities from the National Chambal Sanctuary, specifically about the utilisation of Non-timber forest products (NTFPs). Design/Methodology - The study employed a combination of focused group discussions and participatory observation methods to gather the necessary information from the neighbouring villages of the Sanctuary. The utilisation of the market price approach has been employed to ascertain the direct value of the Sanctuary by the local population. Findings - The findings show that local people derive advantages from the Sanctuary through the use of diverse NTFPs in terms of medicinal plants, vegetables, fruits, and other similar resources. This study utilises the market price technique and household survey data to arrive at the finding that, on average, households derive an annual value of INR 48755.79 from the Sanctuary. Practical Implications - Implementing a bottom-up approach that incorporates meaningful participation from local populations would be advantageous in promoting sustainable biodiversity management inside sanctuaries, protected areas, and parks. Governments must promote various employment generation activities in order to promote local livelihood participation in biodiversity conservation. Originality/Value – It is the first study to estimate the direct benefits of the Sanctuary to the local livelihood in terms of monetary terms that will be useful for policy implications in better management of the protected area. It will help to understand the various issues and challenges in the Sanctuary.