CONSERVATIONISTs have for long emphasised the need for the participation of indigenous communities in biodiversity conservation efforts (Down To Earth, Vol 4, No 15). A us $83 million World Bank project aims to address this need in India. The ambitious programme envisages sustainable development of indigenous communities living in eight protected areas of the country.

The five-year project will commence in April 1996 and would cover six tiger reserves and two national parks of great ecological significance. Says Arin Ghose, director, Project Tiger, "The project is an innovative integration of conservation and development. Eco-development would generate alternative resources and employment for people and deflect demographic pressures on the endangered protected areas".