Case studies of natural resource access in Jharkhand, India:implications for ’democratic’ decentralisation (original) (raw)

This research examines the impacts of democratic decentralisation on access to natural resources in Jharkhand, India, highlighting case studies from four village communities. The findings reveal that despite decentralisation efforts, actual access remains inequitable, often favouring local elites and undermining the livelihoods of primary resource collectors. The study underlines the need for policies that align with local realities and for strengthened local governance structures to ensure fair access and sustainable management of forest resources.