Socio-cultural attributes and biodiversity conservation in a non-protected area: a case study from Anjaw District, Arunachal Pradesh

Abstract

Anjaw district in the eastern Arunachal Pradesh is part of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot. This region is rich in biodiversity and harbours endemic species, some of which are classified as threatened. The Anjaw district is dominated by Miju Mishimi, Digaru Mishimi and the Mayor tribe who follow traditional hunting, fishing and other cultural practices that influence species conservation. However, there exist knowledge gaps pertaining to their traditional cultural practices, fishing and hunting and their impact on sustainability and conservation needs. We conducted surveys in 64 households in 14 villages using a semi-structured interview schedule to understand the demography, livelihood patterns, social taboos, hunting and fishing approaches of the communities in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh. Our surveys showed that agriculture is the primary occupation in the area. Hunting is widely practiced by the communities that also involve hunting of the threatened species. Parallelly, the communities also follow social taboos, which prohibits hunting of certain species some of which are also classified as threatened. Both traditional and modern gears are used for hunting and fishing. Also, forest fire is used extensively for the purpose of hunting which have a drastic impact on the forests and the concerned species. Understanding the social attributes of communities is crucial to develop frameworks and policies for biodiversity conservation in Anjaw district.