X. Analysing the Prospects of Augmented Reality for Involving Local Communities in Sustainable Forestry under the Forest Rights Act, 2006: An Empirical Study from Assam, India

Abstract

Humanity for years exploited the natural resources including forests for anthropogenic benefits to the extent that it now became a threat to the survival of the planet. Given such circumstances, sustainable management of natural resources is required so that humanity can survive in harmony with nature. On the other hand, technological innovations like Augmented Reality (AR) forests under the Forest Rights Act, of 2006 in India however, the scope for inclusion of technology like AR is lacking. Further, the local communities' capacity needs to be enhanced which requires progressive policies concerning handling of technologies. Since forests are critical assets due to their having several challenges in management, AR can play a significant role in sustainable forestry through the participation of traditional forest dwellers, if provided adequate legal recognition.

Keywords: Augmented Reality, Community Participation, Forest Rights Act, 2006, Traditional Forest Dwellers, Sustainable Forestry