Evaluation of capacity and policy development for environmental sustainability: A case from Himachal Pradesh, India

The Kullu District in Himachal Pradesh, India, a Himalayan mountain area, has experienced rapid development in tourism, agriculture and hydro-electricity with substantial impact on the local society, economy, and environment. This paper describes a project undertaken in the area since 1994 by the Universities of Manitoba and Delhi involving collaborative research and action to promote environmental sustainability. Collaboration, in addition to that between the universities, involved government agencies, non-govern mental organizations, unions, educational institutions, and local residents. The results of this field activity led to an evaluation of collaborative planning and development. Objectives relating to capacity building within the universities and action-research were achieved, whereas objectives relating to policy development in environmental sustainability were frustrated by the institutional context and a lack of time and resources.