Community involvement in bustard conservation
Critically Endangered Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is highly dependent on traditional farming and traditional practices of grassland management. Habitat loss and habitat alterations are major threats identified for its decline and maintenance of its mosaic habitat is crucial for long term survival of the species. Local community plays a key role in maintaining bustard’s habitat. In an order to initiate the dialogues and to understand the issues related with community involvement in bustard conservation, Pune wildlife division and GIB Foundation (Pune) organized two events at Bustard sanctuary Maharashtra. Local people and other stakeholders expressed their views on various aspects related to community and bustard conservation. During group discussion various solutions were suggested. This report summarizes and interprets the issues and topics expressed during these events.