Community-based Ecotourism and Indigenous Livelihoods: A Review of Mangata Wildlife Park, Chhattisgarh, India

Community-based ecotourism (CBET) has emerged as a promising approach to integrate biodiversity conservation with sustainable livelihoods for indigenous communities. This review explores the potential of CBET in enhancing the income and socio-economic resilience of local inhabitants around Mangata Wildlife Park, Chhattisgarh, India. The park, rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, presents a unique opportunity to develop eco-friendly tourism models that are community-driven and conservation-oriented. This review synthesises available literature, government policies, and case studies related to ecotourism in protected areas with a focus on local participation, capacity building, and benefit-sharing mechanisms. Key aspects such as stakeholder involvement, infrastructure development, environmental education, and market linkage are examined. At present, Mangata Wildlife Park is a growing tourist attraction, primarily for local and regional visitors. The park has basic infrastructure, including a visitor reception area, interpretive signage, entry gates, internal roads, watch towers, and rest zones. However, accommodation facilities within or near the park are minimal, and most visitors rely on nearby towns for lodging. The CBET model involving indigenous communities could transform Mangata Wildlife Park into a sustainable destination. With proper planning, investment, and participatory governance, the park has the potential to become a leading example of conservation-linked livelihood development in Chhattisgarh. Programs tailored to indigenous contexts boost confidence and long-term engagement in ecotourism ventures. The review highlights that the successful implementation of CBET in Mangata Wildlife Park could contribute to poverty alleviation, cultural preservation, and conservation outcomes, provided there is institutional support, policy alignment, and equitable benefit distribution. Recommendations for strengthening community roles and ensuring long-term sustainability are also discussed.