Poverty, Social Capital and Natural Resource Management

Book Details:

• Author: Kishor C. Samal

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Binding: Hardcover

• ISBN: 8131600505

• Pages: 272

• Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.6 x 0.8 inches

• Release Date: 01-01-2007

About the Book:

"Poverty and Environmental Degradation: A Case Study of Chilika Lake and Keonjhar Forest" investigates the impact of environmental degradation on marginalized communities, particularly focusing on forests and water bodies in India. The study highlights how modernization, liberalization, and market forces have exacerbated the suffering of these communities, especially through the deterioration of natural resources.

The book analyzes the specific challenges faced by the poor in regions like Chilika Lake and Keonjhar Forest in Orissa, using both theoretical frameworks and empirical data. It emphasizes that environmental protection alone is not enough to eradicate poverty, suggesting that sustainable development strategies must incorporate better land reforms, democratic local institutions, education, health services, and rural economic growth.

The author argues that empowering marginalized communities requires not only addressing environmental issues but also implementing comprehensive strategies for social and economic inclusion, with a focus on access to Common Property Resources (CPR), rural organization, and improved credit delivery systems.

Contents:

1. Introduction to Environmental Degradation and Poverty

2. Impact of Environmental Degradation on Marginalized Communities

3. The Case of Chilika Lake and Keonjhar Forest

4. Modernization, Liberalization, and Market Forces

5. Strategies for Poverty Alleviation and Environmental Protection

6. The Role of Local Institutions in Empowerment

7. Conclusions and Policy Recommendations

About the Author:

Kishor C. Samal is a Professor of Economics at the Nabakrushna Choudhury Centre for Development Studies, Bhubaneswar. His academic interests span Informal Sector and Industries, Macro-Economics, Poverty, Natural Resources Management, and Disaster Management. With an extensive research background, he has published over 155 research papers in esteemed journals, in addition to authoring several books.

Samal's work has significantly contributed to understanding the intersections between poverty, environmental issues, and sustainable development, particularly in the context of India.