People in Western Terai Landscape Complex
The Western Terai Landscape Complex area is characterised by high levels of poverty, low human development, deep gender disparity, and low gender empowerment. Besides, caste based social exclusion manifests itself as disparities in both poverty incidence and human development indicators. The Human Development Index (HDI) for the mid western and far western development regions are lowest among the five administrative regions in Nepal. A significant proportion of the population still lives below subsistence level and faces food scarcity though there is food surplus in the region as a whole.The indigenous Tharu, Raji and Badi people residing in this region together with other castes comprise a heterogeneous mix of ethnic/caste groups. These people possess rich and diverse socio-cultural practices and have a wealth of knowledge on the wise use of natural resources.
Agriculture and livestock production represents the main sources of livelihood of people in the Western Terai Landscape Complex. Most of the community people reside in the critical areas and buffer zones of Bardia National Park and Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and fully depend on the land and its natural resources for their survival. In order to reduce pressure on forest resources, WTLCP has been promoting use of alternative energy such as biogas and improved cooking stove through revolving fund support. The WTLCP is also empowering local communities, including women and disadvantaged groups, in planning and decision-making.
The WTLCP encourages community participation in conservation. Community Based Anti-Poaching Operation is established to control illegal activities in protected areas and national forests with the active participation of local people.
With the formation of DFCCs under DDCs, WTLCP ensures joint collaboration and coordination among project partners in the implementation of the project activities at district and community level.
