Abstract Panel


Authors Information
SequenceTypeName TitleFirst NameLast NameDepartmentInstitute / Affiliation
1 Author Mr. Manish Kumar Sociology Mahatma Gandhi Central University Motihari, Bihar
2 Author Dr. Amit Kumar Political Science Munshi Singh College, BR Ambedkar Bihar University, Motihari, India
Abstract Information
TrackID
:
IUAES23_ABS_U6751
Abstract Theme
:
P128 - Human-Nature Connectedness Revisited - Traditional Ecological knowledge and Global Ecological Crisis
Abstract Title
:
The Use of Collective Wisdom in Pond Management and Conservation: A Case Study from the Mithila Region of Bihar
Short Abstract
:
Since Pondscapes (network of ponds) are important sites of biodiversity and are integral to the local folk-community therefore, this paper will try to examine the significance of collective wisdom in addressing the issue of “Pond Conservation and Management”. Towards the end, this paper will also propose a framework, “community-based mechanism” for common resource management that will address the issue of sustainable development and livelihood security.
Long Abstract
:

<p>The ponds have been an important resource for water management and usage throughout the history of our human civilization. Humans have been settling their houses around the ponds and rivers for centuries. At present, the increasing scarcity of drinking water and the non-availability of water for agriculture are major environmental crises. Apart from this, the consciousness about the ponds is still alive at the community level in the Mithila Region. Collective wisdom is vital and also adequate to manage and restore ponds to maximize their role in increasing the resilience of ecosystem and as well as for climate change concerns. Pond culture in Mithila is the cultural trait of the community. In Maithili folk tales and fables, the ponds are characterized as the main cultural identity of this land. Cultural practices are the guide for the communities in their usage and taboos of pond water. This paper will provide an insight to local collective wisdom regarding pond conservation and management. The data will be collected through the participant observation, individual interviews, group discussion, attending cultural and religious ceremonies, etc. The study reveals how local collective knowledge and the mechanism behind it helps in maintaining the existence of ponds.&nbsp;</p>

Abstract Keywords
:
Collective wisdom, Pond culture, Conservation and Management, Cultural practices