Pathways of Social Inclusion for Soil and Water Conservation in the Mahanadi River Basin
摘要
The Mahanadi River Basin is a critical lifeline for the eastern Indian states of Odisha and Chhattisgarh, supporting millions of livelihoods through agriculture, fishing, and other domestic uses. However, this basin faces increasing ecological and socioeconomic challenges due to rapid industrialization, urban expansion, and climate change. This chapter explores the integration of social inclusion into soil and water conservation efforts within the Mahanadi River Basin. By engaging marginalized groups such as tribal communities, women, and landless farmers in conservation initiatives, social inclusion fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that solutions are locally adapted and sustainable. The manuscript emphasizes that involving these communities in planning and implementing conservation practices significantly improves the outcomes and long-term success of such initiatives. Through a comprehensive review of current conservation challenges, successful case studies, and policy frameworks, this chapter proposes practical strategies for fostering inclusivity in environmental management, ultimately aiming to increase the ecological and socioeconomic resilience of the Mahanadi River Basin.