Ecotourism and Empowerment: A Case Analysis of Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha, India

Ecotourism is a type of sustainable tourism that aims at conservation of the environment through development of the indigenous communities. Development of the communities not only refers to economic development, but also to social as well as cultural development. The present study is an attempt to address the socio-cultural impact of ecotourism to the locals in Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary (BKWS), Odisha, which is an important ecotourism site in India for its rich and varied biodiversity. Through a case analysis, the study endeavours to find out whether ecotourism has been able to empower the locals socially as well culturally. The study finds that ecotourism has come as an economic rescuer for many people who do not have a wide avenue of earning. With the creation of employment opportunities, locals have been made aware of participation in community development programme. Several institutions such as eco-development committees (EDCs) have come up in adjacent villages, and locals are made members of EDCs. However, these EDCs have not been very effective to empower the locals because of their lack of education and skill. From community participation to education and skill development, from infrastructure to awareness campaigns, there is a lot of effort needed by the government. Thus, proper policies are to be formulated for an inclusive ecotourism approach in BKWS, one which is socio-economically effective, culturally advanced and environmentally sustainable.