Impact of ecological imbalance on women a case study of district Sirmaur H P

Abstract

Ecological degradation is one of the biggest challenges the world is facing today. This research work originated from the quest to know more about the causes and concerns of hilly women due to the prevalent ecological imbalance, but at the same time from a worry about the constant degradation of an already fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Little has been written on this subject in this interesting context and this thesis aims to contribute and to fill in the gaps in this field. The study aims to analyse the impact of ecological imbalance through the gender lens in order to mirror the ground realities. Accordingly, the study explicitly highlights the plight of hilly women and also points out that ecological imbalance would put an extra pressure on women activities ranging from fetching water to fodder collection, agriculture; and critically analyses the implication for generation of women s livelihood. The first chapter of the thesis embarks upon exploring the relationship between women and the environment which further helps in better understanding of impacts of ecological imbalance on women. In order to understand the concept, various theoretical approaches have been discussed with a special reference to Ecofeminism. A good review of literature along with explanations of scope, objectives, research questions, research methodology and chapterisation have also been taken care of. The second chapter deeply delves into the study of the research area, i.e. Sirmaur with a complete explanation of its geographical, demographic, economic and social profile. The third chapter sets forth to analyse and evaluate the institutional mechanisms to safeguard the environment. The fourth chapter explores analyses and evaluates the impact of ecological imbalance on women of district. Sirmaur on the basis of responses from 200 female respondents. The fifth chapter formally summarises the observations and findings of the research study with some recommendations at various levels. newline