Integrating Indigenous Technical Knowledge and Ethno-Veterinary Practices into People’s Biodiversity Registers: Insights from Jharkhand
The People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) is a comprehensive document that records the biodiversity within a specific locality in India, encompassing details about local biological resources, their medicinal or other uses, and traditional knowledge associated with them. Mandated by the Biological Diversity Act of 2002, the PBR serves as a vital tool for biodiversity conservation, sustainable utilization, and the equitable sharing of benefits arising from biological resources. The People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) serves as a vital instrument for documenting and preserving the rich tapestry of biodiversity and associated traditional knowledge within local communities. In Jharkhand, a state characterized by its diverse tribal populations and extensive natural resources, the inclusion of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) and ethno-veterinary practices in the PBR is of paramount importance. These elements not only enrich the register but also play a crucial role in the sustainable management and conservation of biological resources.
Objectives of the People’s Biodiversity Register:
- Documentation of Biodiversity: To systematically record the diversity of flora, fauna, microorganisms, and ecosystems present in a locality.
- Preservation of Traditional Knowledge: To safeguard indigenous knowledge related to the use and management of biological resources.
- Promotion of Sustainable Practices: To encourage sustainable harvesting and utilization of biological resources, ensuring ecological balance and livelihoods.
- Facilitation of Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS): To ensure that benefits arising from the use of biological resources are shared fairly with local communities.
Legal Framework:
Under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, the establishment of Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) at the level of local bodies is mandated. A primary function of these BMCs is the preparation of the PBR in consultation with local communities. The PBR includes comprehensive information on the availability and knowledge of local biological resources, their medicinal or other uses, and any traditional knowledge associated with them.
Preparation Process:
- Formation of Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs): Local bodies constitute BMCs, typically comprising members from the community who are knowledgeable about local biodiversity.
- Community Engagement: BMCs engage with local residents, traditional knowledge holders, and practitioners to gather information on biological resources and associated traditional knowledge.
- Data Collection and Documentation: Information is collected on various aspects such as species diversity, habitat details, traditional uses, conservation practices, and cultural significance.
- Validation and Verification: The collected data is cross-verified with the community to ensure accuracy and authenticity.
- Compilation and Publication: The validated information is compiled into the PBR document, which serves as an official record for the locality.
Current Status in India:
As of recent reports, significant progress has been made in the preparation of PBRs across various states in India. For instance, under the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for the Environment) initiative, the objective is to create a PBR in every village in the country. In different states, BMCs have created a substantial number of PBRs, reflecting the growing commitment to biodiversity documentation and conservation.
Challenges:
- Resource Constraints: Limited financial and human resources can hinder the comprehensive documentation of biodiversity.
- Community Participation: Ensuring active and informed participation from local communities is crucial but can be challenging due to varying levels of awareness and interest.
- Data Management: Collecting, verifying, and managing vast amounts of data requires robust systems and technical expertise.
PBR in Jharkhand
The People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) is a comprehensive document that records the biodiversity within a specific locality, detailing local biological resources, their traditional uses, and associated knowledge. In the Indian state of Jharkhand, the implementation of PBRs is guided by the Jharkhand Biological Diversity Rules, 2007, aligning with the national framework established under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
Objectives of the PBR in Jharkhand:
- Documentation of Biodiversity: To systematically record the variety of flora, fauna, and microorganisms present in different localities across Jharkhand.
- Preservation of Traditional Knowledge: To safeguard indigenous knowledge related to the use and management of biological resources, which is integral to the cultural heritage of Jharkhand’s communities.
- Promotion of Sustainable Practices: To encourage the sustainable use of biological resources, ensuring ecological balance and supporting local livelihoods.
- Facilitation of Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS): To ensure that benefits arising from the use of biological resources are shared fairly with local communities, recognizing their contributions and rights.
Legal Framework in Jharkhand:
The Jharkhand Biological Diversity Rules, 2007, provide the structural and functional guidelines for biodiversity management within the state. These rules mandate the creation of Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) at local body levels, such as Panchayats and Municipalities. A primary responsibility of these BMCs is the preparation and maintenance of PBRs.
Key Provisions Specific to Jharkhand:
- Maintenance and Validation: BMCs are responsible for maintaining and validating the PBRs, ensuring that the documented information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Guidance and Technical Support: The Jharkhand Biodiversity Board provides guidance and technical support to BMCs for preparing PBRs, including specifying the format and particulars to be included.
- Data on Local Practitioners: BMCs are tasked with maintaining data about local practitioners, such as traditional healers (vaids), who utilize biological resources, thereby preserving traditional medicinal knowledge.
Preparation Process in Jharkhand:
- Formation of BMCs: Local bodies constitute BMCs, typically comprising members knowledgeable about local biodiversity and traditional practices.
- Community Engagement: BMCs engage with local residents, traditional knowledge holders, and practitioners to gather information on biological resources and associated traditional knowledge.
- Data Collection and Documentation: Information is collected on various aspects such as species diversity, habitat details, traditional uses, conservation practices, and cultural significance.
- Validation and Verification: The collected data is cross-verified with the community to ensure accuracy and authenticity.
- Compilation and Publication: The validated information is compiled into the PBR document, which serves as an official record for the locality.
Current Status in Jharkhand:
As per available data, Jharkhand has made significant progress in the preparation of PBRs. The state has established 4,689 PBRs, reflecting a strong commitment to biodiversity documentation and conservation.
Challenges:
- Resource Constraints: Limited financial and human resources can hinder the comprehensive documentation of biodiversity.
- Community Participation: Ensuring active and informed participation from local communities is crucial but can be challenging due to varying levels of awareness and interest.
- Data Management: Collecting, verifying, and managing vast amounts of data requires robust systems and technical expertise.
Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK):
ITK encompasses the cumulative wisdom, innovations, and practices developed by indigenous communities over generations, intimately tied to their environmental interactions. In Jharkhand, tribes such as the Santhal, Ho, Birhor, Oraon, Munda, and Bhumij have cultivated extensive knowledge about local flora and fauna, utilizing various plant species for medicinal purposes and other applications. This traditional knowledge is integral to their cultural identity and has been instrumental in conserving biodiversity through sustainable practices.
Ethno-Veterinary Practices:
Ethno-veterinary practices refer to the traditional animal healthcare methods employed by local communities, involving the use of medicinal plants and natural remedies to treat livestock ailments. In Jharkhand, these practices are prevalent among tribal groups and are essential for maintaining livestock health, especially in areas with limited access to modern veterinary services. For instance, the Santhal tribes in the Ghatshila Block have been documented using specific plant-based treatments to address foot and mouth disease in livestock.
Role of ITK and Ethno-Veterinary Practices in PBR:
- Documentation and Preservation: Incorporating ITK and ethno-veterinary practices into the PBR ensures the systematic recording of valuable traditional knowledge, safeguarding it from potential loss due to cultural shifts or modernization. This documentation serves as a repository for future generations, promoting the continuity of indigenous wisdom.
- Sustainable Resource Management: Traditional practices often emphasize sustainable use and conservation of resources. By integrating these practices into the PBR, communities can promote ecological balance and ensure the long-term availability of vital resources. For example, the use of specific plant species for treating animal diseases highlights the importance of conserving these plants and their habitats.
- Community Empowerment: Recognizing and validating indigenous knowledge within the PBR empowers local communities, acknowledging their expertise and fostering a sense of ownership over biodiversity conservation efforts. This empowerment can lead to more active participation in managing and protecting local ecosystems.
- Integration with Modern Practices: Documented traditional knowledge can serve as a foundation for integrating indigenous practices with modern scientific approaches, leading to more effective and culturally appropriate solutions in areas such as agriculture, medicine, and veterinary care. For instance, validating ethno-veterinary treatments through scientific research can enhance animal healthcare strategies.
Challenges and Considerations:
- Validation and Standardization: While traditional practices are valuable, there is a need for scientific validation to ensure efficacy and safety. Collaborative research involving local practitioners and scientists can help standardize these practices without undermining their cultural significance.
- Intellectual Property Rights: Protecting the intellectual property rights of indigenous communities is crucial when documenting traditional knowledge. Mechanisms should be in place to prevent exploitation and ensure that benefits arising from the use of this knowledge are equitably shared with the communities.
- Cultural Sensitivity: The process of documenting ITK and ethno-veterinary practices must be conducted with respect for cultural norms and practices, ensuring that sensitive information is handled appropriately and with the consent of knowledge holders.
Conclusion:
The People’s Biodiversity Register is a pivotal instrument in Jharkhand’s efforts to conserve its rich biological heritage. The integration of Indigenous Technical Knowledge and ethno-veterinary practices into the People’s Biodiversity Register in Jharkhand is essential for preserving the state’s rich cultural and biological heritage.
By documenting local biodiversity and associated traditional knowledge, PBRs not only aid in conservation but also empower local communities to participate actively in sustainable development. Continued support, awareness, and capacity-building initiatives are essential to overcome challenges and ensure the effective implementation of PBRs across the state.
