Promoting Conservation and Coexistence: The Case of Blackbucks (Antilope cervicapra L.) and the Bishnoi Community in Abohar, Punjab, India

Abstract

Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) in Punjab, India, is a unique protected area with the blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra L.) as its flagship species. The history of blackbuck conservation is deeply intertwined with the culture and ethos of the local Bishnoi community. Most of the land in WLS is farmland owned by local people. When the area was declared a sanctuary in 2001, it contained many sand dunes with wild vegetation that served as habitats for wildlife. The local people's sustainable farming practices and their peaceful coexistence with blackbucks are now largely things of the past. Expansion of cultivated land has reduced the natural habitat of wild animals, a problem exacerbated by habitat fragmentation due to the fencing of crop fields. Hybrid cattle and stray dogs also pose threats to wildlife in the area. In this study, we explore ways to restore the coexistence between local communities and wildlife. We examine the underlying conflicts and potential strategies for reconciliation. Results show that local people in the case study area hold strong conservation values and are motivated by their cultural and religious beliefs to protect wildlife, but face increasing challenges in doing so. Our research indicates that these intrinsic motivations, when supported by extrinsic incentives such as compensation payments and other mechanisms like ecotourism or premium prices for wildlife-friendly certified products, could foster sustainable human–wildlife coexistence. Education may also be an important factor in encouraging acceptance of such extrinsic incentives.

Keywords

Abohar / Bishnois / blackbucks / compensation / conservation on private land / human wildlife coexistence / payment for ecosystem services

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