Engaging Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) Members in Conservation Training Programs: A Case Study from Kerala, India

Abstract

The participation of BMC members in training programs on biodiversity conservation holds immense importance in fostering effective stewardship of natural resources. These training initiatives equip BMC members with essential knowledge, skills, and tools necessary for understanding and addressing biodiversity challenges within their communities. By enhancing their capacity, BMC members can play a pivotal role in implementing conservation strategies, promoting sustainable practices, and safeguarding local ecosystems. Moreover, their active involvement in training programs fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action, thereby strengthening the overall effectiveness of biodiversity conservation efforts at the grassroots level. Ultimately, BMC member participation in training programs not only enhances their capabilities but also contributes significantly to the conservation and sustainable management of biodiversity resources for present and future generations. The BMC member's participation in training programmes on biodiversity conservation was investigated in this study. Based on the biodiversity richness and ecological sensitivity four blocks each were selected purposively from low lands of Kannur and Alappuzha districts, mid lands of Kollam and Malappuram districts and the high ranges of Wayanad and Idukki districts of Kerala. A sample of 180 BMC members were selected from the 6 districts for the study. The results of the study indicate that approximately 18.89 per cent of BMC members have not received any training on biodiversity conservation. In contrast, 40 per cent of the members have participated in two training sessions, while 32.22 per cent have attended at least one training program on the subject. Only 8.89 per cent of the members have participated in three or more training programs related to biodiversity conservation. These findings suggest that there is a need to enhance the participation of BMC members in training programs related to biodiversity conservation. Increasing the number of training sessions and ensuring the availability of relevant resources can help enhance the capacity of BMC members to implement conservation strategies, promote sustainable practices, and safeguard local ecosystems.