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Research Article

Ecology–Economy Interface: Understanding Protected Area Awareness Among Forest-Fringe Dairy Farming Communities in Kerala

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Hridya Sasikumar — Ph.D. Scholar, Dairy Extension Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132001, Haryana, India
Sanjit Maiti — Senior Scientist, Dairy Extension Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132001, Haryana, India
H R Meena — Principal Scientist & Head, Division of Extension Education, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243122, Uttar Pradesh, India
Sreedhar Vijayakrishnan — Research Associate, Centre for Conservation and Research, Tissamaharama, Sri Lanka
B S Meena — Principal Scientist, Dairy Extension Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132001, Haryana, India
Published 25 Dec 2025 Vol. 62 No. 1 (2026), pp. 8-14 ● Open access
❝ How to cite 🔗 https://doi.org/10.48165/IJEE.2026.62102
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Abstract

Dairy farming communities near protected areas (PAs) face challenges such as land-use restrictions, displacement, and human–wildlife conflict, often leading to negative attitudes and hindering sustainable agricultural development. Increasing awareness regarding PAs is essential to improve perceptions and promote coexistence with wildlife. This study assessed PA awareness and its determinants among 300 dairy farmers living near Silent Valley National Park, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, India, during 2023-24. Awareness was measured using a structured scale, and determinants were analysed with an ordinal logistic regression model. Farmers generally demonstrated moderate awareness of ecological roles but limited understanding of regulatory provisions and livestock-wildlife health concerns. Most farmers from Silent Valley, Wayanad, and the overall sample had a medium level of awareness, while a higher level of awareness was more common in Karimpuzha. Key predictors of awareness included gender, education, social participation, and information-seeking behaviour. The results highlight the need for targeted, gender-inclusive awareness programmes that promote community engagement, strengthen rural education, and encourage proactive information access. 

 

KeywordsAwareness scaleDairy farmersEcologyHuman–wildlife conflictLand use restrictionsOrdinal logistic regressionProtected area

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