Community Participation and Ecotourism: Economic Impacts in Similipal Biosphere Reserve

The Similipal biosphere reserve in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district is rich in the diversity of life and culture; it is a prime example of community-based tourism (CBT). This is a participatory model that involves local communities in the planning, management and sharing of the benefits of tourism. The present study is designed to investigate the possibility of the use of CBT for the stimulation of economic growth in the Similipal region. The research uses Secondary data and qualitative approaches to look into tourist activities, to explore the economic and social conditions, to emphasise the importance of community participation in tourism and to present the challenges and future perspectives of CBT. The study revealed that tourism in Similipal is growing, but the involvement of the local communities is limited because of a lack of awareness, skills, infrastructure, and effective planning. It, however, suggests that there is a high potential for CBT in the region when adequate training, financial support and policy arrangements are in place. The study specifically emphasises the key role of community participation in ecotourism development for tribal communities' economic empowerment, cultural maintenance, and sustainable resource utilisation. Improved CBT in Similipal will be able to increase livelihoods in the area, which will also support the responsible and inclusive conservation of the rich biodiversity of Similipal.

Tourism

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