Considering Economic Needs of the Community of Phobjikha, Bhutan: Constraints and Challenges

Abstract

Summary: A s t u d y conducted i n t h e conservation a r e a of Phobjikha (Wangdiphodrang, Bhutan) reveals t h a t t h e local perceptions of t h e benefits emanating from conservation of Black-Neckcd Cranes is greater than their perceptions of associated costs. This is solely attributed to the moral and aestheticvalue of cranes for their inherent magnificence and significance in local culture and traditions. No significant economic benefit was reported, while negative trends in viewing BNC conservation as a n obstacle to development became evident. Community identified issues show the needs of the local people in terms of economic development. This led Bhutan's only national conservation NGO, the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN), to initiate the Black-Necked Crane conservation programme in the area, based on the concept of the Integrated Conservation and Development Programme (ICDP). Plans and programmes to enhance conservation as a basis for local economic development were developed and are currently being implemented. Challenges and constraints to developing the area into a model conservation and development area have been identified. The challenges and constraints in implementing the so called ICDP are multi faceted, involving multiple actors such as government sector agencies, NGOs, local people consisting of farmers, business entrepreneurs, and religious bodies together with their own development, economic, conservation and religious objectives.Heterogeneous community expectations for instant benefits a t individual level, national policies, lack of local initiatives, low human resource capacity and ad-hoc programmes of different agencies are constraints that potentially slow programme implementation. The overarching causes are lack of awareness and the low econpmic .standard of the local population that do not allow individuals to think beyond their own benefits. The challenge is for the human population in the area to gain a kairly good level of awareness about coordinated efforts that can enhance their participation in ongoing and future conservation and development programmes.

Impact of land cover change on a mountain ecosystem and its services: case study from the Phobjikha valley, Bhutan

“…The provision of habitat in winter for the black-necked crane (Grus nigricollis), which migrates from the Tibetan-Qinghai Plateau, is of special importance (ICIMOD 2014). Black-necked cranes have a recognized place in the local community and play an integral part in the local culture (Dorji and Jigme 2003). They are mentioned in local folklore, dances, and stories and are closely linked with everyday life, for example, farmers finish harvesting their crops when the birds arrive leaving the land open for cranes to feed and roost (RSPN 2007).…”