Forest-Based Livelihoods, Gender Dynamics and Biophysical Conditions in Rural Communities of Kashmir Himalaya, India

Abstract:

Understanding the forest-based livelihoods and biophysical conditions of rural communities is essential to design regional strategies for forest management and livelihood security in Kashmir Himalaya. This study examined the extraction, consumption, marketing, gender dynamics and biophysical conditions of rural communities in the Lidder Forest division of Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir. Data were collected employing structured interviews and personal observations from 115 households, which were selected through multi-stage random sampling. Findings revealed that 94% of households relied on forest-based resources, with NTFPs contributing 35-60% of the household income. A clear gender division of labour was observed—men primarily engaged in timber and resin harvesting (6-8 hours/day; ₹240-₹810/day), while women dominated the collection of fodder, medicinal herbs, and mushrooms (5-6 hours/day; ₹270-₹931/day). Despite their substantial contribution, women’s labour remained undervalued and largely excluded from decision-making processes. While local markets absorbed 70% of low-value forest products such as firewood and fodder, high-value commodities like Gucchi mushrooms, honey, and walnuts reached regional markets. Profits were diminished by intermediary control (20-30%) and inadequate storage and processing facilities. Unsustainable extraction, with annual firewood consumption (1,970 kg/household) exceeding ecological thresholds, alongside seasonal overharvesting of medicinal plants and fodder, is leading to vegetation degradation. The household biophysical factors directly influence forest resource collection and forest-based livelihoods; hence, these factors must be given due consideration in planning. The study emphasizes the urgent need to recognize forests' roles as an essential source for balancing livelihood security with ecological sustainability.