Population, Poverty and Environmental Degradation in Nagaland

Abstract

Nagaland which constitutes the northern part of Indo-Myanmar ranges is well-known among conservationists and environmentalist for both its unique forest ecosystems and its alarmingly high rates of deforestation through various forms of economic activities. The environment is an essential source of livelihood on which the continued existence for poor people depends. However, denial of primary requirements results to poverty. The evaluation suggests that higher population and fertility rates were associated with higher deforestation in the tropical evergreen forest. Poverty reduction and environmental protection are two international obligations for sustainable development. The standpoint of the study has changed over time, from narrowly focusing on poverty reduction to comprehensively strengthening human-welfare. The relationship between population, poverty and environmental degradation is regionally unique or has regional uniqueness. This paper analyses the poverty level in Nagaland using below poverty line card holder, Head Count Ratio and Multidimensional Poverty Index. The finding shows that during 1987-88 the poverty rate was 34.43 per cent and the forest loss was found to be -192 sq. km which further increases to 33.83 per cent (poverty rate) and forest loss to -450 sq. km during 2016-17. The result highlights high level of poverty thereby, affecting the environment resources. The paper suggests suitable measures which can ameliorate the poverty and environmental degradation.

Keywords

• Shifting cultivation, land degradation, forest resources, environmental degradation and poverty