Being a public scholar means that I finally get an opportunity to bridge the gap between academic research and effective dissemination of knowledge to stakeholders, and receive support to explore new and exciting ways to share my research with the communities and the local governments who are an integral part of my study.
Research Description
India’s tiger reserves are some of the most biodiverse and ecologically important forests. Tiger reserves provide a multitude of ecological services to the most populated country in the world where land and resources are limited. While these tiger reserves provide a healthy habitat for the local flora and fauna, they are also home to forest-dwelling communities. These forest-dwelling communities have protected, conserved and restored these forests for several generations, relying on them for livelihoods, sustenance and cultural practices. They have developed elaborate management rules for their natural resources. However, conservation initiatives have led to their relocation and loss of traditional rights. The Forest Rights Act declared in 2006 offered them a chance to reclaim these rights even inside protected areas such as tiger reserves. But even after 18 years of the Act’s declaration, the implementation remains poor. The Indian Government’s Forest Department continues to promote fortress conservation with ongoing relocations of these communities. At the same time, several communities have now obtained land rights under the Forest Rights Act to continue living inside tiger reserves. Yet the impact of relocations or recognition of rights on communities, tiger reserves and natural resource management remains unclear. My doctoral research will investigate whether sustainable management rules can simultaneously provide livelihoods and support conservation of tigers, and how markets, policies and governments influence these rules.
What does being a Public Scholar mean to you?
I have always wrestled with the challenge of bridging the gap between academic research and effective dissemination of knowledge to stakeholders. Being a public scholar means that I finally get an opportunity to realize this dream and receive support to explore new and exciting ways to share my research with the communities and the local governments who are an integral part of this study. This will also help me strengthen my relationships with the Korku and Gond communities I am working with.
In what ways do you think the PhD experience can be re-imagined with the Public Scholars Initiative?
As a PhD scholar working closely with communities and local governments, PSI provided me with the opportunity to determine the most effective ways to communicate my research to them. Often, real-life stakeholders cannot fully benefit from traditional academic writing, making it essential to explore alternative methods of communication. However, I also recognize the importance of academic writing, and with PSI's support, I am confident in my ability to achieve both goals.
How do you envision connecting your PhD work with broader career possibilities?
Through my previous experiences working with communities, I've come to understand the significant effort and time required to build meaningful relationships. With my PhD work, I aim to establish these connections in a way that endures long after I complete my doctoral studies so that I can continue working with these communities. Real-world change takes years of research and collaboration, and my doctoral studies mark the beginning of this journey. I also hope to build connections within the broader research community to help fulfill these goals.
How does your research engage with the larger community and social partners?
I am conducting this research in collaboration with the Korku and Gond communities living in Central India’s tiger reserves. I'm also working closely with local NGOs, who have played a vital role in establishing this research and providing crucial support on the field. Local governments are crucial for ensuring effective policy implementation, and with the backing of the Wildlife Institute of India, I have the opportunity to engage with both local and senior government officials at my field sites. My goal is to produce research that not only enhances policy implementation but also bridges scientific research with traditional knowledge.
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
My previous interactions with forest-dwelling communities sparked my current research questions. With a background in engineering and marketing, it was essential for me to develop new skills to transition into this career path. As a doctoral student, I now have the opportunity to explore, learn and prepare for my future in research and conservation.
Why did you choose to come to British Columbia and study at UBC?
The Faculty of Forestry at UBC is world-renowned, with exceptional researchers engaged in multidisciplinary work around the globe. UBC also offers abundant opportunities for learning and research funding, which are crucial for achieving one’s research goals. My interactions with my supervisors, Dr. Harry Nelson and Dr. William Nikolakis, even before joining UBC, were instrumental in my decision to study here.
