Berhampur University has initiated a two-year study on the role of ecotourism in empowering tribal communities in Odisha under the Mukhyamantri Research Innovation Programme (MRIP)-2025. The project, titled “Ecotourism as a catalyst for tribal empowerment: Advancing Sustainable Livelihoods and Environmental Conservation,” commenced last month. It has been sanctioned a grant of Rs 5.92 lakh by the Odisha State Higher Education Council (OSHEC).
Research Leadership and Focus
Led by Iqbal Ahmad Bhat, assistant professor in the PG department of tourism and travel studies, the study will examine how ecotourism can drive economic development while preserving the state’s ecological and cultural diversity. The research will focus on three ecologically sensitive sites — Muduligadia eco-village in Nayagarh, Deomali nature camp in Koraput, and Mandasaru Valley nature camp in Kandhamal — all home to significant tribal populations.
“These sites will serve as case study to assess how community participation, indigenous rights and skill development can support sustainable livelihoods,” Bhat said, adding that the projects are managed by tribal women.
Three Pillars of the Study
Bhat said the study will be structured around three pillars — socio-economic development, environmental conservation and livelihood generation. It aligns with key policy frameworks, including the National Ecotourism Strategy-2022 and the Odisha State Ecotourism Policy-2016. “The research is expected to contribute to several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly poverty alleviation, decent work and economic growth, responsible consumption and life on land,” he said.
Expected Outcomes and Impact
Experts said the findings could offer data-driven insights for policymakers and help evolve a replicable model that integrates conservation with community development. By documenting socio-economic conditions and assessing the impact of ecotourism initiatives, the study aims to lay the foundation for scalable and sustainable interventions.
This research is a significant step towards understanding how ecotourism can be leveraged to empower tribal communities while ensuring environmental conservation. The outcomes are expected to provide a blueprint for similar initiatives in other regions.
