For conservation to be embraced and accepted, and for it to be successful, there needs to be social acceptance and buy in. Successful conservation interventions hinge on the active participation of local communities in problem formulation, knowledge generation and decision-making. ANET's philosophical leanings are strongly aligned with sustainable use, and we differ from conventional protectionist conservation organisations in that we unapologetically support the rights of local communities to sustainably utilise natural resources and to exercise their cultural rights and worldviews. We believe change that is brought about through democratic means and with a focus on equitable governance of natural resources. This can lead to better social and economic outcomes, and incidentally better environmental outcomes.
In addition to indigenous communities whose traditional interactions are strongly linked to marine and terrestrial resources, the islands are home to several settler communities whose diverse backgrounds, histories and origins enable a variety of engagements that are uniquely mediated by their experiences in the islands. Our livelihoods-centred projects with settler communities are aimed at local sustainability, food security and strengthening traditional systems of resource use and governance. They are backgrounded by the understanding that resource dependent communities are typically characterised by close links to land- and sea-scapes, and in most cases, enjoy outdoor lifestyles that are conducive to better consequences for health, fitness and nutritional outcomes. Fishing communities are no exception to this rule, as their livelihoods are tied strongly to marine systems. To build on these positives, we eventually aim to develop place-based rooted models that incorporate sport, nutrition and fitness that ties into conservation.
Keeping in mind current requirements in the Andaman islands, Dakshin and ANET are also directly involved with a range of interventions in education and waste-management. The education programme at ANET includes formal as well as informal programmes relating to curriculum development, teacher training and foundational learning. ANET also conducts periodic courses for local schools and colleges as well as visiting groups from mainland India and abroad. Similarly, keeping in mind the increasing influx of tourists into the Andaman islands, ANET is in the process of initiating projects on waste management and responsible tourism frameworks. Since the quantum of work carried out by a single organisation is likely to be limited, ANET has taken on the role of initiating training and capacity building exercises wherever possible.
In addition to indigenous communities whose traditional interactions are strongly linked to marine and terrestrial resources, the islands are home to several settler communities whose diverse backgrounds, histories and origins enable a variety of engagements that are uniquely mediated by their experiences in the islands. Our livelihoods-centred projects with settler communities are aimed at local sustainability, food security and strengthening traditional systems of resource use and governance. They are backgrounded by the understanding that resource dependent communities are typically characterised by close links to land- and sea-scapes, and in most cases, enjoy outdoor lifestyles that are conducive to better consequences for health, fitness and nutritional outcomes. Fishing communities are no exception to this rule, as their livelihoods are tied strongly to marine systems. To build on these positives, we eventually aim to develop place-based rooted models that incorporate sport, nutrition and fitness that ties into conservation.
Keeping in mind current requirements in the Andaman islands, Dakshin and ANET are also directly involved with a range of interventions in education and waste-management. The education programme at ANET includes formal as well as informal programmes relating to curriculum development, teacher training and foundational learning. ANET also conducts periodic courses for local schools and colleges as well as visiting groups from mainland India and abroad. Similarly, keeping in mind the increasing influx of tourists into the Andaman islands, ANET is in the process of initiating projects on waste management and responsible tourism frameworks. Since the quantum of work carried out by a single organisation is likely to be limited, ANET has taken on the role of initiating training and capacity building exercises wherever possible.