Sustaining the Forest Fringe: An Analysis of Livelihood Strategies and Socio-Ecological Resilience in Tribal Chhattisgarh

Abstract

Chhattisgarh, often referred to as the "Green Heart of India," possesses a unique socio-economic landscape where nearly 44% of its geographical area is under forest cover. This paper examines the complex interplay between forest-dependent communities and their livelihood strategies, focusing on the transition from traditional subsistence to market-integrated economies. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach involving qualitative field observations and quantitative secondary data analysis, the study explores how rural households in districts like Bastar and Surguja balance Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) collection, subsistence agriculture, and seasonal migration. The research highlights that while the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006 has provided a legal scaffold for sustainability, challenges such as climate variability, middleman exploitation, and depleting forest density remain significant hurdles. The findings suggest that livelihood sustainability in Chhattisgarh is currently "vulnerable" rather than “robust,” necessitating a shift toward community-led value addition and decentralized forest management. The paper concludes with policy recommendations aimed at bridging the gap between ecological conservation and economic security.