Roosen Kumar

The study investigates the dynamics of land use and land cover changes and their impacts on tree cover and grasslands in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand over four decades (1983-2023). Using multi-temporal satellite data analysis, the research examines vegetation patterns across different elevation zones ranging from 683m to 7801m. The findings reveal significant variations in tree cover, with an initial increase from 224,027 hectares in 1983 to fluctuations leading to 323,554 hectares by 2023. Tree cover showed remarkable expansion at higher elevations, particularly in the 4149-5152m zone, increasing from 147 hectares to 44,189 hectares. This indicates significant upward migration. Grassland areas demonstrated considerable variability, expanding from 93,647 hectares in 1983 to 118,330 hectares in 2023. The study identifies a clear spatial pattern with consistently higher vegetation density in the southern region, while the northern portion exhibits notably lower coverage. This north-south vegetation gradient persists throughout the temporal sequence, suggesting underlying environmental and human influences. The research also highlights concerning trends in other land cover types, including an increase in barren land and a massive decrease in snow cover, indicating significant changes. These transformations have important implications for local ecosystems, biodiversity, and communities dependent on these landscapes. The findings contribute to understanding the complex interactions between climate change, land management practices, and vegetation dynamics in high-altitude regions, providing valuable insights for conservation strategies and sustainable resource management.

This study examines evolving livestock ownership and management patterns among agro-pastoralist communities in Joshimath block, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, analysing their socio-economic implications. Using stratified random sampling, primary data were collected from 50 households across three elevation zones through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews with key informants, and focus group discussions. The research reveals significant transformations over three decades (1990-2024), with a 32.5 percent decline in overall livestock numbers. Sheep numbers dropped by 48.6 percent and goats by 27.9 percent, while cattle ownership increased by 22.6 percent, buffalo ownership by 75 percent, and pack animals by 88.9 percent. Management practices shifted from long-distance transhumance (declining from 68 percent to 36 percent of households) toward settled livestock keeping and stall feeding systems. Key drivers include climate change impacts on highland pastures, labour constraints due to outmigration, emerging tourism opportunities, and land use restrictions. Livestock's contribution to household income declined, while tourism income increased. Gender roles transformed as well, with women now performing more hours of daily livestock management tasks compared to the past. Cultural implications include erosion of traditional ecological knowledge. The study documents remarkable adaptive capacity, with improved cattle breeds and pack animals offering the highest investment returns. The agro-pastoralist communities are undergoing dynamic reconfiguration rather than decline, blending traditional elements with new opportunities. Policy interventions should support sustainable adaptations while preserving traditional knowledge through integrated approaches, including cooperative herding, value-added products, and knowledge transmission programs. Este estudio examina la evolución en la tenencia y manejo del ganado entre las comunidades agro-pastoriles del bloque de Joshimath, en el distrito de Chamoli, Uttarakhand (India), desde 1990 hasta 2024, y analiza sus implicancias socioeconómicas. A través de un muestreo aleatorio estratificado, se recolectaron datos primarios de 50 hogares distribuidos en tres zonas altitudinales mediante cuestionarios estructurados, entrevistas en profundidad a informantes clave y discusiones en grupos focales. Los resultados revelan transformaciones significativas en tres décadas, con una disminución del 32.5 % en el número total de animales. Las ovejas disminuyeron en un 48.6 % y las cabras en un 27.9 %, mientras que la tenencia de ganado vacuno aumentó un 22.6 %, los búfalos un 75 % y los animales de carga un 88.9 %. Las prácticas de manejo cambiaron de la trashumancia de larga distancia (del 68 % al 36 % de los hogares) hacia un sistema más estable y con alimentación en establos. Los principales factores incluyen el cambio climático en los pastizales, la migración laboral, el auge del turismo y las restricciones de uso del suelo. Disminuyó el ingreso por ganado y aumentó el proveniente del turismo. Las mujeres asumen más tareas diarias. Se pierde conocimiento ecológico tradicional. Las comunidades muestran una fuerte capacidad de adaptación.

This study examines the implementation and impact of PowerGrid's cold chain equipment distribution initiative across diverse states in India during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research focuses on a comprehensive survey conducted in multiple districts of Punjab, Sikkim, Ladakh, and Mizoram to evaluate the effectiveness of the cold chain infrastructure in supporting vaccine distribution and storage. The primary objectives included assessing the adequacy, functionality, and accessibility of the deployed equipment, while considering the unique geographical and demographic challenges of each region. The study involves a detailed evaluation of various operational aspects, including procurement efficiency, distribution strategies, and overall enhancement of vaccine storage capabilities. Particular attention was paid to analysing how PowerGrid's intervention contributed to overcoming logistical challenges in remote and difficult-to-access areas, ensuring consistent vaccine availability and maintaining proper storage conditions throughout the distribution network. The research provides insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the implemented cold chain system, identifying critical factors that influenced its success and areas requiring improvement. The findings demonstrate PowerGrid's initiative that enhanced the capacity of remote health centers to maintain vaccine efficacy through proper storage and handling. The study also reveals the crucial role of strategic equipment distribution in strengthening the overall healthcare infrastructure during the pandemic response. This research contributes to the existing literature on public health infrastructure development and emergency response systems, particularly in the context of large-scale vaccination programs in geographically diverse regions. Este estudio examina la implementación y el impacto de la iniciativa de distribución de equipos de cadena de frío de PowerGrid en diversos estados de la India durante la pandemia de COVID-19. La investigación se centra en una encuesta exhaustiva realizada en varios distritos de Punyab, Sikkim, Ladakh y Mizoram para evaluar la eficacia de la infraestructura de la cadena de frío en el apoyo a la distribución y el almacenamiento de vacunas. Los objetivos principales incluían evaluar la adecuación, funcionalidad y accesibilidad de los equipos desplegados, teniendo en cuenta los retos geográficos y demográficos únicos de cada región. El estudio implica una evaluación detallada de diversos aspectos operativos, entre ellos la eficiencia en la adquisición, las estrategias de distribución y la mejora general de la capacidad de almacenamiento de vacunas. Se prestó especial atención al análisis de cómo la intervención de PowerGrid contribuyó a superar los retos logísticos en zonas remotas y de difícil acceso, garantizando la disponibilidad constante de vacunas y manteniendo unas condiciones de almacenamiento adecuadas en toda la red de distribución. La investigación ofrece información sobre los puntos fuertes y débiles del sistema de cadena de frío implantado, identificando los factores críticos que influyeron en su éxito y las áreas que requieren mejoras. Los resultados demuestran la iniciativa de PowerGrid, que mejoró la capacidad de los centros de salud remotos para mantener la eficacia de las vacunas mediante un almacenamiento y una manipulación adecuados. El estudio también revela el papel crucial de la distribución estratégica de equipos en el fortalecimiento de la infraestructura sanitaria general durante la respuesta a la pandemia. Esta investigación contribuye a la bibliografía existente sobre el desarrollo de infraestructuras de salud pública y los sistemas de respuesta a emergencias, especialmente en el contexto de los programas de vacunación a gran escala en regiones geográficamente diversas. Los resultados sirven como referencia valiosa para futuras iniciativas de salud pública y destacan la importancia de la participación de las empresas en el fortalecimiento de la infraestructura sanitaria. Además, el estudio ofrece recomendaciones practices para optimizar los sistemas de cadena de frío y mejorar las redes de distribución de vacunas en terrenos geográficos difíciles.

This study examines the evolving livelihood patterns in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, and evaluates the role of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in facilitating rural transformation in mountain communities. Using a mixed-method approach, primary data were collected from 100 households across two blocks through structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The research reveals a shift from traditional agriculture-based livelihoods, with households dependent solely on agriculture declining from 58 % to 23 % over the past decade. Currently, 67% of households engage in multiple income-generating activities, demonstrating significant diversification of their livelihood strategies. NGO interventions have been instrumental in this transformation. The majority of households, 52 % of households have benefited from various programs. Skill development training reached 73 % of the beneficiaries among the surveyed population. The mean monthly household income stands at INR 22,350, with educated households showing significantly higher diversification rates. Key challenges include limited market access, insufficient technical knowledge, and climate change impacts. The study recommends enhanced coordination between NGOs and government agencies, improved market linkages, and climate-resilient livelihood strategies for sustainable mountain development. These findings contribute valuable insights for designing effective development interventions in similar mountain regions.

This study is a review article which examines the dynamics of the treeline shifts in the Himalayan region of India. It further looks at its impact on ecology, resources and the local communities. The previous studies have found that the Himalayan region is warming at rates faster than the surrounding lowlands. In Himalayas, changes in temperature and precipitation patterns over recent decades have led to significant alterations in treeline ecology, affecting both the landscape and the livelihoods of the communities. As per the previous studies, the Indian Himalayan treeline has shifted significantly upward from 1972-2014. Arunachal Pradesh now has the highest treeline at 4136m (shifted up 452m), followed by Jammu and Kashmir at 4121m (shifted up 441m). Uttarakhand's treeline moved up 411m to 3615m, while Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim both rose about 301m to reach 3520m and 3542m respectively. This study documents temporal changes in altitudinal treeline positions based on available literatures, its associated vegetation dynamics, and their socioeconomic implications for local and transhumant communities. The investigation of several literatures reveals that there has been an upward shift of the treeline in most of the Himalayan region. These shift varies from 300-600m spatially. This threatens alpine meadows, which are critical for local biodiversity and traditional pastoral practices. Grazing areas and other forest resources are becoming less productive and cannot meet the growing demands of both human and livestock populations. The research documents a decline in the availability of essential resources, including medicinal plants, timber, firewood, and grazing grounds, forcing collectors to venture into more remote areas. Additionally, based on number of studies, the article shows how climate-induced changes coupled with increased developmental activities such as road construction impact the treeline ecotone and associated livelihood patterns. The fragile mountain ecosystem, experiencing increased frequency of climatic anomalies has led to devastating effects on local communities. By integrating ecological and social dimensions, this study contributes to a holistic understanding of treeline dynamics and their implications for community well-being.

The issue of health has become a major concern in recent years as a result of extensive coverage of media reporting outbreaks of diseases and the spread of deadly infectious diseases around the world. There has been a growing concern over the accessibility and affordability of healthcare facilities. The spread of the ongoing pandemic COVID-19 has been felt all over the world. However, the rate of infection varies across certain regions of the world. There exists intra-regional disparity as well. Recent research shows that there are latitudinal and altitudinal variations in the spread of the COVID-19. This paper studies variation of infection COVID-19 across the highlands of the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) and the lowland areas in India. The paper also examines the role of geographical spaces in the spread of coronavirus in these regions. The study indicates that place-based effects (altitude, temperature, pollution levels, etc.) on health can be seen in a variety of ways; therefore, locational issues are very important for addressing health questions. The paper also analyses the Spatio-temporal pattern of the COVID-19 pandemic in the study area to understand the nature of the disease in different locations.