The Ecological Wealth of Kachchh: Why Rakhals Matter for Conservation and Pastoral Communities
Harindra Baraiya
Project Coordinator - Biodiversity Conservation
Sahjeevan
In the harsh, arid landscapes of Kachchh, Gujarat, an often overlooked ecosystem is brimming with biodiversity and cultural significance. These are the Rakhals—landscapes that include a mosaic of grasslands, open thorn forests, and scrublands, collectively known as open natural ecosystems. These ecosystems are crucial not only for biodiversity but also for sustaining the region’s pastoral communities.
A Biodiversity Hotspot
Kachchh Rakhals are teeming with life. They are home to over 240 species of birds, both aquatic and terrestrial, and support more than 25 species of mammals, including Hyena, Desert Cat, Ratel, Leopard, and elusive Caracal. Additionally, the reptile population is healthy, and these areas also host a variety of insects, many of which have yet to be thoroughly studied. The floral diversity within Rakhals is equally remarkable, with more than 45 species of trees, nearly 50 shrubs, around 115 herbs, and around 10 species of climbers recorded. This rich vegetation directly supports a plethora of animal species, creating an intricate web of life.
One of the most studied Rakhals, Chadva Rakhal, spans 51.79 km², representing only 0.11% of Kachchh’s geographical area. Yet, it harbours 253 plant species or 26% of all plant species reported from the district. These plants provide essential resources, such as food and shelter, for various species, including 242 bird species, 26 mammalian species, and 28 species of reptiles. Among the rare flora found in Chadva Rakhal is the endangered Commiphora wightii, along with over 70 species of medicinal plants. This diversity is key to the ecological balance in the region and underscores the conservation importance of these ecosystems.
Vital for Nomadic Pastoral Communities
For nomadic pastoral communities, such as the Maldharis of Kachchh, the Rakhals are a lifeline. These open natural ecosystems provide critical grazing grounds for their livestock, including camels, goats, and sheep, throughout the year. In the absence of permanent settlements, nomadic pastoralists depend on the seasonal productivity of Rakhals to sustain their herds as they move between different areas. The diversity of grasses, shrubs, and trees in these landscapes not only feeds the livestock but also helps sustain the pastoralist way of life, which has shaped Kachchh’s culture for centuries. The mutual relationship between pastoralists and Rakhals ensures sustainable land use, as these communities practice rotational grazing that allows the land to regenerate and prevent overgrazing. In turn, the Rakhals provide the forage needed for their livelihoods, making these ecosystems indispensable to the region’s cultural heritage.
Conservation Importance of Rakhals
While conservation efforts often focus on national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, Rakhals are equally important as they serve as critical habitats and corridors for wildlife. The Chadva Rakhal, for example, has been found to support a variety of threatened species. Its birdlife is particularly noteworthy, with 91 migratory species, 17 resident migratory species, and 134 resident species. Among these, 20 species are listed under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, highlighting the significance of this area for bird conservation.
Similarly, the mammalian population of Rakhals includes threatened species like leopards and caracals. Approximately 20% of the mammal species in Chadva Rakhal fall under the Schedule I category of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, indicating the high conservation value of these ecosystems. The area also supports species of reptiles, with 2 species listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List. The floral and faunal richness of Rakhals makes them vital for the overall health of Kachchh’s biodiversity.
The Future of Rakhals
Despite their ecological significance, Rakhals face threats from urbanization, industrialization, mushrooming of renewable energy infrastructure and agricultural expansion that result in functional habitat loss and fragmentation. Protecting these ecosystems requires a concerted effort from conservationists, government bodies, and local communities. Recognizing the traditional knowledge of pastoralists and integrating it into conservation strategies will be key to sustaining the ecological balance of these open natural ecosystems.
The nomadic pastoral communities of Kachchh, particularly the Maldharis, possess a deep understanding of these ecosystems, having lived in harmony with them for generations. Their traditional knowledge of grazing patterns, water sources, and plant species offers invaluable insights into the natural rhythms of the Rakhals. For example, their practice of rotational grazing ensures that land is not overburdened, allowing vegetation to recover and thrive. Their understanding of drought cycles and seasonal changes can help guide more sustainable land-use practices that benefit both livestock and wildlife.
By involving these communities in conservation planning, we can create more robust, adaptive strategies that are sensitive to the ecological and social dynamics of the region. This participatory approach would not only enhance conservation efforts but also empower the pastoralists, giving them a stake in preserving the landscapes that are integral to their way of life.
By conserving Rakhals, we not only protect species-rich habitats but also support the livelihoods of pastoral communities that have lived in harmony with these landscapes for generations. As the world grapples with the effects of climate change and biodiversity loss, the preservation of Rakhals could play a crucial role in maintaining ecological stability in Kachchh.
Rakhals represent far more than mere expanses of land; they are essential ecosystems that support both wildlife and human populations. Protecting these areas is crucial for preserving Kachchh’s biodiversity and for ensuring the survival of pastoral communities that rely on these open natural ecosystems for their livelihoods.