www.nandadevi.org

The local villages have a history of forest conservation, playing a key role in the Chipko movement, which celebrated its 30th anniversary on March 26, 2003. The regulated tourism plan drawn up b the park management envisions balancing conservation, economic development and sustainable tourism practices, with 500 visitors permitted per year, while maintaining exclusive management rights for local rights for local villagers. The effects on the ecosystem will be monitored and future plans will be drawn up accordingly. Events in Nanda Devi will be closely watched, with the hope this model will provide answers to the vexing question of balancing community needs and conservation derivatives.