Sustainable mountain development: The Himalayan tragedy

Mountain systems in India, including the Himalayan region are characterised by highly complex socio-ecological systems, with rich cultural diversity linked with equally rich biological diversity. With a large number of ethnic societies having their own social, economic and cultural attributes placed in a highly heterogenous mountain environment, any conservation-linked developmental initiative has to be based upon a value system that they understand, appreciate and therefore can participate. While textbook-based 'formal knowledge' has its value in this effort, the rich traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) derived through an experiential process and available in local communities forms a powerful connecting link between ecological and social systems. Converting TEK, often seen as location-specific, into broad generalisations that are applicable across socio-ecological systems was the major step that was undertaken by this author to convert research results into policy formulations and developmental initiatives, as illustrated here. In the ultimate analysis, developmental initiatives that link cultural diversity with biological diversity are seen as the basis for ensuring human security in these socio-ecologically fragile mountain systems.