Community‐Based Conservation of Freshwater Resources in India: A Review of Alternative Livelihood Approaches

ABSTRACT

Community‐based conservation (CBC) through alternative livelihood approaches (ALAs) has demonstrated efficacy in both environmental conservation and economic growth. However, its utilization remains suboptimal in the sustainable management of Indian freshwater resources and the socio‐economic advancement of local communities. This review aims to synthesize existing knowledge on ALAs implemented in Indian freshwater systems and to identify gaps for improving their effectiveness. A structured literature review was conducted using major scientific databases and gray literature sources, including policy documents and reports from national and international organizations. Out of 22,969 retrieved publications, 446 studies focused on Indian freshwater systems, of which a subset was critically analyzed for livelihood interventions. The review identifies four major ALA categories in India: ecotourism, religious tourism, aquaculture, and handicrafts with uneven representation and limited integration into conservation frameworks. Overall, the findings indicate that although ALAs contribute to income diversification, their impact on long‐term conservation outcomes remains constrained. The study concludes that scaling up, better integration with policy frameworks, and improved socio‐economic targeting are essential to enhance effectiveness. Strengthening institutional support and expanding underutilized livelihood sectors are recommended to achieve sustainable freshwater resource management and community well‐being.