Influence of socio-environmental risks on natural resource dependent socio-ecological systems in Central Himalaya

The fragile landscape of Himalaya harbors a wide range of natural resource dependent communities. However, they are the primary receivers for any adverse social and environmental changes. The study explored the impact of climate variability, disaster, migration, and wildlife on resource utilization pattern of two natural resource dependent Socio-Ecological Systems (SESs) in the Central Himalaya. Integrated SES framework-based household survey and non-parametric statistical tests (Pearson's Chi-square test of homogeneity and Mann-Whitney U tests) were used to draw the conclusions. Results indicated that resource dependency and socio-environmental risks are heterogeneously distributed in the SESs. Climate change and wildlife intrusion were the most widespread risks causing agricultural decline, forest, and water degradation. Whereas the impact of migration and disasters were localized. However, an overall negative impact of risks on resource dependency was ubiquitously perceived. Diverse coping, disengagement, and adaptive responses were observed that indicated resilience of resource dependent SESs in the Central Himalaya.