Nature Conservation in Communities of Rural India through Perspective of UN SDGs

Abstract

The global community is divided on economic status. The conditions of the poor communities are critical, especially in developing and underdeveloped nations. Most of these nations belong to the Asian, African, and South American continents. The nations from these continents owe rich natural heritage and cultural diversity. The eco-cultural ethos embedded in the indigenous customs and traditions of these nations has global relevance in the modern age of information. It is fact that the solution to any environmental challenge exists in the cultural roots of the nation. India is one of such nations which inhabit diverse eco-culture. The purpose of this paper is to understand the natural heritage of rural India and the local conservation practices prevalent in the rural communities to achieve the targets of UN SDGs. Undoubtedly, nature conservation and environment protection involve social dimensions connected to the local ecological setup. The eco-centric approach of the Indian culture lies in the concepts of ‘Vasudhaiv Kutubkam’ (Earth is one family), ‘Aranya Sanskriti’ (Forest Culture), and the ‘Prakriti Purush’ (Natural Human) which are deeply embedded in the traditions and the customs of the Indian society. Based on traditional conservation practices, the community manages the local natural heritage. The diversity of customs and traditions results in the vividness of the conservation practices. Thus, the socio-ecological systems could be used for site-specific conservation programs and policies.