Legal Framework For Forest And Wildlife Conservation In India: A Case Study Of Rajasthan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64252/meg39353Keywords:
Forest conservation, Wildlife protection, Biodiversity, Legal framework, Rajasthan, Indian Forest Act, Wildlife Protection Act, Ecosystem management, Community participation, Conservation policies, Sustainable development, Protected areas, and Traditional knowledge.Abstract
India's rich biodiversity and ecosystems are under constant pressure due to population growth, industrialization, deforestation, and climate change. Rajasthan, a state with unique ecological diversity, faces severe conservation challenges due to its arid climate and increasing human activities. This study examines the legal framework governing forest and wildlife conservation in India, with a special focus on Rajasthan. It explores the historical evolution of conservation laws, key national and state-level policies, and their effectiveness in protecting biodiversity. The study highlights Rajasthan's unique ecosystems, key species, and conservation issues while analyzing the role of local communities in forest and wildlife conservation.[1] Additionally, it identifies challenges in implementing conservation laws and explores successful case studies, such as the Bishnoi community's environmental efforts and the Khichan crane conservation initiative. The paper concludes with recommendations for strengthening existing conservation laws, integrating traditional knowledge, and promoting sustainable conservation strategies through community participation and improved enforcement mechanisms.
