Nagaland University researchers have proposed a holistic conflict mitigation approach integrating ecotourism-based measures, community participation and geospatial technology to address the rising human–tiger conflicts in Uttarakhand, particularly in the transitional buffer zones around Jim Corbett National Park.
The study highlights that increasing human–wildlife conflicts, driven by ecological degradation, climate change and expanding human activities, have intensified significantly in recent years. The research calls for urgent and coordinated interventions combining ecological conservation, technological monitoring and active community engagement, terming them as essential to prevent further escalation of human-tiger conflicts and to ensure sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Uttarakhand, known for its rich biodiversity and high tiger population, has witnessed growing incidents of human-tiger encounters due to habitat loss, human encroachment and rising pressure on natural resources. These conflicts have resulted in loss of human life, livestock damage and widespread fear among local communities, particularly in the districts of Pauri, Almora and Nainital. Focusing on the eastern transitional buffer zone of Jim Corbett National Park near Ramnagar and surrounding villages, the research analyzed spatiotemporal trends in human-tiger conflicts over three decades (1991–2025).
The researchers integrated two GIS-based modules—an ecological module and a human-tiger conflict module—to assess changes in land use, habitat area, population density, tourism pressure and conflict incidents. Based on this analysis, the study identified four categories of human-tiger conflict risk zones: low, moderate, high and very high.
Lauding the recent study conducted by university researchers identifying ecotourism as a sustainable strategy to manage human–tiger conflicts near Jim Corbett National Park, Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, Vice Chancellor, Nagaland University, said, “The study highlights that community-based ecotourism can reduce dependency on forest resources, enhance local livelihoods, and promote coexistence with wildlife. Such research reflects the university’s commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges through practical and community-oriented solutions.” The findings were published in Springer’s International Journal Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, an international, peer-reviewed scientific journal that publishes research on environmental monitoring systems and pollution risk assessment
