This book provides a unique and comprehensive assessment of the changes that have been taking place in the Himalayas. It describes in detail all the aspects of change, both natural and cultural, along with their implications, and suggests policy measures to help mitigate them. The book is divided into two major sections on natural changes and cultural changes and 11 chapters: an introduction, six addressing changes that concern natural aspects, and four exploring cultural changes and presenting the book's conclusions. The content is based on a study conducted using a participatory observation/empirical method. Time series data from secondary sources is also included, helping to analyze the various changes. The findings are presented in the form of color graphs, models, maps, photographs, and tables.

The book offers a valuable resource for policymakers, and will prove equally useful for all other stakeholders, e.g. researchers, students and development agents.

Presents an empirical and observational study of environmental and cultural change in the Himalayas Provides detailed descriptions of the recent changes, addressing both natural and cultural aspects Features a wealth of illustrated color maps, graphs, models and tables

Inhalt
Introduction.- Natural Aspects.- Chapter 1.- Geography and Geology.- Chapter 2.- The Climate of the Uttarakhand Himalaya.- Chapter 3.- Glaciers of the Uttarakhand Himalaya.- Chapter 4.- Water Resources and Change.- Chapter 5.- Forests of Uttarakhand Himalaya.- Chapter 6.- Increasing Events of Disasters.- Chapter 7.- Change in Culture and Customs.- Chapter 8.- Population, Social and Economic Change.- Chapter 9.- Migration and Agrarian Change.- Chapter 10.- Sustainable Development under Changing Environment.- Chapter 11.- Conclusions: Drivers of Change, Resilience and Adaptation.- Index.