The impact of human-wildlife conflict on biodiversity conservation in India

Abstract

Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) is one of the greatest threats to wildlife species and their habitats in India, as well as a major challenge for the well-being and livelihoods of rural communities. India has the world’s largest human population and the largest wild populations of tigers, Asian elephants, one-horned rhinos, Asiatic lions, and other globally threatened species, which often share space and resources with humans. HWC can result in crop and livestock losses, human injuries and deaths, property damage, and negative attitudes towards wildlife conservation. This paper aims to review the causes, impacts, and mitigation measures of HWC in India, drawing from various sources of literature and data. The paper also discusses the social, economic, and ecological dimensions of HWC, and the challenges and opportunities for achieving a socially just form of conservation that balances human needs and wildlife protection.