Articles by Ravi Kumar

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.