Study of Intra-Cultural Variation in Ecological Knowledge and Natural Resource Use among Tribal Communities of Chikhaldara, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

This study examines intra-cultural variation in Ecological Knowledge (EK) and its association with Natural Resource Use (NRU) among the tribal communities of Chikhaldara in the Melghat region of Maharashtra, India. The Korku, Gond, and Bhil tribes residing in this ecologically sensitive landscape maintain long-standing relationships with forest ecosystems that shape their livelihoods, cultural identity, and resource governance systems. The research investigates whether variations in ecological knowledge across age, gender, education, and tribal affiliation influence the intensity and diversity of natural resource utilization, including medicinal plants, edible forest products, construction materials, fodder, and water resources. A cross-sectional mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, participatory observation, and statistical analysis using Pearson’s correlation, Chi-square tests, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Findings reveal a statistically significant positive association between EK and NRU across all groups, with stronger correlations observed among adults and elders compared to youth. Noticeable inter-group differences were identified, particularly with the Korku tribe demonstrating relatively higher knowledge-use integration. Gendered dimensions of ecological knowledge were evident, as women exhibited specialized expertise in ethnobotanical resources while men were more engaged in timber and construction-related extraction. The study also identifies gradual erosion of ecological knowledge among younger generations due to migration, formal education systems lacking local ecological integration, and weakening intergenerational transmission. The results highlight that ecological knowledge is socially differentiated, culturally embedded, and central to sustainable resource governance. The study underscores the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge systems into conservation planning, participatory forest management, and culturally contextualized educational frameworks to ensure ecological sustainability and cultural continuity.