Small-Scale Livelihoods and Natural Resource Management in Marginal Areas of Monsoon Asia

Marginal areas face a range of ecological, social and economic constraints, such as steep slope, low soil fertility, recurrent droughts/floods and, poor access to markets, public services and information. These constraints limit adoption of intensive agriculture technologies developed to suit the needs and circumstances in the mainstream areas. A large number of people live in marginal areas and many in extreme poverty. Improving livelihoods in marginal areas is a pressing need, but application of conventional development models may not be feasible. Designing and implementing innovative approaches, which enhance local livelihoods coupled with conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, is a challenge to scientists as well as development practitioners. From October 29 to 30, 2003, an international symposium discussed and reviewed alternative approaches to enhancing small-scale livelihoods and natural resource management in marginal areas in monsoon Asia, this book is an outcome of the papers presented in the symposium. This publication, it is hoped, will be helpful in gaining the basic information about the present state of natural resource management and livelihoods and in getting insights for further research and development needs in marginal monsoon region of Asia.