Preserving Earth’s Earliest Life: An Assessment of Sustainable Ecotourism Entrepreneurship and Stakeholder Priorities at Salkhan Fossils Park Sonbhadra Uttar Pradesh India

Preserving Earth’s Earliest Life: An Assessment of Sustainable Ecotourism Entrepreneurship and Stakeholder Priorities at Salkhan Fossils Park Sonbhadra Uttar Pradesh India

Project Report Submitted to the Department of Geography for the Sustainable Ecotourism & Entrepreneurship (SEC)

Submitted by

Md Kaif

Examination Roll No. 24021501230 College Roll No. 24/81243

SEM: 4th

Under the Supervision of

Dr. Sindhu Tyagi

DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY DYAL SINGH COLLEGE UNIVERSITY OF DELHI

NEW DELHI 110003

April, 2026

Acknowledgement

I extend my sincere gratitude to all 40 respondents from Sonbhadra and surrounding areas who generously participated in this survey, sharing their valuable perspectives on sustainable ecotourism at Salkhan Fossils Park. Their insights form the foundation of this study.

I am deeply thankful to my supervisor, Dr. Sindhu Tayagi, for her invaluable guidance, constant support, and insightful feedback throughout the preparation of this report. Her expertise and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping this work.

I also express my appreciation to the Department of Geography, Dyal Singh College, University of Delhi, for providing the academic framework and opportunity to undertake this research as part of the Sustainable Ecotourism & Entrepreneurship (SEC) curriculum.

This report is submitted by Md Kaif, BA Program (4th Semester), Examination Roll No. 24021501230, College Roll No. 24/81243. Any errors or omissions remain solely my own.

1- Introduction

Sustainable ecotourism and entrepreneurship represent a transformative approach that integrates environmental conservation, community well-being, and economic viability into cohesive business models. Unlike conventional tourism, which often prioritizes volume over value and externalizes ecological costs, sustainable ecotourism ventures are purpose-built to protect natural and cultural assets while generating meaningful livelihood opportunities for local populations. Entrepreneurs in this domain act as stewards of place, identifying opportunities within landscapes and heritage sites that can be responsibly developed without compromising the integrity of the resources upon which they depend. Their enterprisesranging from guided interpretive services and community-based accommodations to artisanal product developmentcreate virtuous cycles wherein tourism revenues directly incentivize conservation behaviours and strengthen local economies.

The significance of this entrepreneurial model is particularly pronounced in rural and marginalized regions where traditional economic activities face decline and out-migration threatens community cohesion. By valorising intact ecosystems and living cultural traditions, ecotourism entrepreneurship offers alternative development pathways that align economic interests with ecological preservation. This approach demands more than conventional business skills; it requires cultural competence, ecological literacy, and collaborative governance frameworks that ensure benefits are equitably distributed among stakeholders.

India harbours immense yet underutilized potential for sustainable ecotourism entrepreneurship within its geological and ecological heritage.

The Salkhan Fossils Park in Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh, exemplifies such opportunity. Situated within the Kaimur Wildlife range, this 25-hectare geo heritage site preserves stromatolite fossils dating back approximately 1.4 to 1.8 billion yearsamong Earth’s oldest evidence of life. Despite its profound scientific significance, the park remains largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism. For local communities, Salkhan presents a compelling canvas for developing low-impact ecotourism enterprises, including interpretive guiding, educational programming, and handicraft initiatives that celebrate this ancient natural archive. Through thoughtful entrepreneurial engagement, Salkhan can transition from an obscure geological treasure to a sustainable livelihood engine that safeguards its irreplaceable legacy for future generations.

2- Literature Review

1. GRI AND THE CAMOUFLAGING OF CORPORATE UNSUSTAINABILITY

   -José M. Moneva, Pablo Archel & Carmen Correa

   Research Objective

   The objective of this paper is to critically examine the sustainable development approach adopted by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines and assess their potential impact on corporate reporting. The study aims to explore whether the GRI guidelines effectively promote genuine sustainability or inadvertently allow organizations to camouflage unsustainable practices through biased reporting.

   Research Problem

   The study addresses the discrepancy between the intended purpose of GRI guidelinesto enhance corporate accountability and sustainability reportingand the observed reality where some organizations labelled as GRI reporters engage in irresponsible practices related to environmental, social, and economic sustainability (e.g., gas emissions, social equity, human rights). The paper questions whether the GRI framework adequately integrates the three pillars of sustainability (economic, environmental, social) or if it simplifies the concept of sustainable development (SD) to a mere checklist of indicators.

   Database

   Academic literature on sustainable development, social and environmental accounting, and corporate reporting. GRI guidelines (2002 version) and their evolution. Case examples of GRI-reporting companies (e.g., Novo Nordisk, Shell, BBVA) to illustrate practical applications and shortcomings

   Methodology

   Document Analysis: Scrutinizing the GRI guidelines (2002) to assess their conceptual framework, reporting principles, and performance indicators. Thematic Analysis: Using Gray’s key questions (e.g., “Sustainability for whom?”) and Bebbington’s strong/weak sustainability continuum to evaluate the GRI’s approach.

   Major Findings

   Legitimization of Unsustainable Practices: Some companies use GRI reporting to legitimize their operations without addressing core sustainability challenges, such as defining entity boundaries or ensuring external verification.

2. INTEGRATING SUSTAINABILITY REQUIREMENTS INTO PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT BASED ON SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING FRAMEWORKS

-Niklas Quernheim & Benjamin Schleich

Research Objective

The objective of this study is to develop a computer-aided method for translating high-level sustainability guidelines, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, into quantifiable technical requirements at the product level. The aim is to bridge the gap between corporate sustainability reporting and actionable product development strategies, ensuring sustainability is integrated into all stages of product design and manufacturing.

Research Problem

The study addresses the lack of standardized approaches to convert abstract sustainability frameworks (e.g., GRI, Circular Economy principles) into granular, measurable product requirements. This gap hinders companies from effectively aligning product development with sustainability goals, particularly under regulatory pressures like the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). The key challenge lies in projecting sustainability metrics frommacro-level guidelines to specific product components and processes.

Database

GRI Standards (e.g., GRI 301 for materials, GRI 305 for emissions) as the primary framework. Case Study Data: A chromium steel component from TU Darmstadt, including production process data (milling, turning, heating) and material flow metrics.

Methodology

Hotspot Analysis: Adapted from ISO 14040 LCA standards to identify critical environmental impacts across the product life cycle (materials, production, transport,

EoL). Uses ecoinvent data and expert insights to quantify COe, energy use, and resource efficiency.

Major Findings

Effective Translation of GRI Standards: The method successfully converted GRI indicators (e.g., GRI 301-2 for recycled materials) into actionable product requirements (e.g., “40% recycled steel”). Hotspot Identification: Materials and production processes accounted for 96% of ecological impacts, guiding targeted interventions

1. A FRAMEWORK FOR SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING

   -Indra Abeysekera

   Research Objective

   The objective of this paper is to propose a principle-based sustainability reporting framework that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and integrates sustainability outcomes and impacts into corporate reporting. The framework aims to shift focus from performance metrics (outputs) to measurable contributions toward sustainable development (outcomes and impacts), guided by Gaia Theory and the Theory of Distributive Justice.

   Research Problem

   Despite the widespread adoption of sustainability reporting (e.g., 80% of top global companies report sustainability metrics), current frameworks like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) emphasize outputs (e.g., emissions data) rather than outcomes (e.g., actual reductions in inequality or pollution). The study identifies three core issues: lack of integration, weak accountability, and theoretical gaps.

   Database

   Theoretical Foundations: Gaia Theory: Planetary interdependence (biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere). Theory of Distributive Justice: Fair resource allocation across generations and societies

   Methodology

   Framework Design: Proposes a three-section corporate report: Financial Reporting:

   Traditional statements (income, balance sheet, etc.). Intellectual Capital Reporting: Economic value of knowledge/assets. Sustainability Reporting: Outcomes/impacts linked to UN SDGs (e.g., poverty reduction, clean energy)

   Major Findings

   Outcome-Based Reporting: Firms should report specific changes (e.g., “reduced CO emissions by 10%”) rather than generic metrics. Integration with Financial Capital: Sustainability investments (e.g., renewable energy) should be tied to financial statements (e.g., R&D costs) and intellectual capital (e.g., patents)

2. BARRIERS OF SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING IN VILLAGE FOREST MANAGEMENT INSTITUTIONS

   -Ni Wayan Yulianita Dewi, Putu Eka Dianita Marvilianti Dewi, Diota Prameswari Vijaya & Gusti Ayu Ketut Rencana Sari Dewi

   Research Objective

   The study aimed to identify the obstacles faced by the Village Forest Management Institution (LPHD) Bhuana Utama in Panji Village when implementing sustainability reporting practices. It sought to uncover the challenges in applying sustainable development principles through sustainability programs and reporting.

   Research Problem

   Lack of knowledge and understanding of sustainability reporting among LPHD Bhuana Utama management. Absence of a dedicated team responsible for sustainability reporting.

   Database

   Primary Data: Collected through in-depth interviews with the Panji Village head, LPHD Bhuana Utama staff, and community members (e.g., Village Consultative Body).

   Secondary Data: Documentation of regulations, permits, and forest management records. Observational Data: Activities and interactions of LPHD members with stakeholders during program implementation

   Methodology

   Approach: Qualitative case study. Framework: Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) sustainability reporting stages: Planning, Stakeholder identification and communication, determining report content, Compiling the report, and presenting the report

   Major Findings

   Knowledge Gap: LPHD management lacked awareness of sustainability reporting concepts. Structural Issue: No specialized team was assigned to handle sustainability reporting, as management prioritized other duties (e.g., Village-Owned Business Entity operations)

3. SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTING (SER) IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

   -Ibrahem Alshbili, Ahmed A. Elamer & Maha W. Moustafa

   Research Objective

   The study aimed to examine the barriers hindering the adoption of Social and Environmental Reporting (SER) in Libya’s oil and gas sector, focusing on the role of institutional voids (weak or absent regulatory frameworks) in shaping corporate sustainability practices. It sought to understand how managers and policymakers perceive these barriers in a developing country context.

   Research Problem

   Low SER adoption in developing countries compared to developed nations, despite the global emphasis on sustainability. Institutional voids such as weak legal frameworks, lack of enforcement, and absent civil society pressure that impede SER implementation

   Database

   Primary Data: 20 semi-structured interviews with managers and policymakers in Libya’s oil and gas sector (14 corporate managers, 6 National Oil Corporation officials).

   Interviews conducted in 2014 during a 3-month fieldwork period. Secondary Data: Analysis of Libyan laws and regulations (e.g., Environment General Authority Law No. 15 of 2003). Review of international SER frameworks (e.g., EU Directive 2014/95/EU) for comparative context

   Methodology

   Framework: Institutional theory, focusing on institutional voids (weak governance, lack of enforcement). Data Collection: Semi-structured interviews (4378 minutes each) with open-ended questions. Triangulation: Cross-verification of interview data with legal documents and prior literature

   Major Findings

   Absence of Environment General Authority (EGA) Enforcement: EGA lacked resources, trained personnel, and political support to enforce environmental laws. No Legal Requirement for SER: Unlike the EU, Libya had no mandatory SER laws, leading to low disclosure

4. SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING IN THE ENERGY SECTOR

   -Barbara Kowal & Arkadiusz Kustra

   Research Objective

   The study aimed to explore the role of sustainability reporting in the energy sector, focusing on how the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Guidelines are used to integrate financial and non-financial data. It sought to highlight the importance of integrated reporting for value creation and stakeholder engagement in energy companies.

   Research Problem

   Information gap in traditional financial reporting, which overlooks environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts. Need for standardized frameworks to measure and report sustainability performance in the energy sector, given its significant economic and environmental footprint

   Database

   Primary Data: Case studies of European energy companies (e.g., Iberdrola, Vattenfall) using GRI Guidelines. Secondary Data: GRI Guidelines (G4 version) and sector-specific supplements (e.g., Electricity Utilities Sector Supplement, EUSS)

   Methodology

   Approach: Qualitative analysis of sustainability reporting practices. Framework: Global

   Reporting Initiative (GRI): Evaluated adoption levels and compliance. Data Collection: Review of corporate sustainability reports (e.g., Iberdrola, Vattenfall)

   Major Findings

   High Adoption of GRI Guidelines: 90% of studied companies used GRI frameworks, with 60% adopting sector-specific EUSS. Benefits of Integrated Reporting: Enhanced transparencyisclosed ESG impacts (e.g., carbon emissions, labour safety) alongside financial metrics

5. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT REPORTING WITH IT APPLICATIONS

   -Aygul Zufarovna Ibatova, Farit Foatovich Sitdikov & Guzalija Salihovna Klychova

   Research Objective

   The study aimed to theoretically substantiate and develop practical recommendations for sustainability reporting in alignment with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Guidelines. It sought to enhance reporting methodologies by integrating information technology (IT) to streamline data collection, processing, and presentation for economic, environmental, and social performance metrics.

   Research Problem

   Lack of standardized frameworks for non-financial reporting, leading to inconsistent disclosures across organizations. Manual and fragmented processes in sustainability reporting, which hinder efficiency and accuracy. Need for automation to improve data reliability and comparability, especially in tracking environmental and social impacts.

   Database

   Primary Data: Case study of “Lesnoy Rodnik” LLC, a Russian enterprise, to demonstrate IT-integrated reporting. Analysis of GRI Guidelines (2016 version), focusing on economic, environmental, and social indicators. Secondary Data: Review of international standards (e.g., AA1000, GRI) and prior research on sustainability reporting.

   Methodology

   Approach: Qualitative and practical, combining theoretical analysis with IT-driven accounting adaptations. Framework: GRI GuidelinesStructured reporting into

   economic, environmental, and social categories. Document analysis of accounting records (e.g., material consumption, energy use, waste management)

   Major Findings

   IT-Enabled Reporting Frameworks: Proposed new sub-accounts in accounting software (e.g., “Renewable Materials,” “Nature Protection Costs”) to align with GRI indicators.

   Environmental Reporting: Material tracking segregated renewable vs. non-renewable resource use (e.g., fuel briquettes vs. petrochemicals). Waste Management: Quantified disposal methods (e.g., recycling, composting) via dedicated accounts

6. ETHOS, LOGOS, PATHOS – STRATEGIES OF PERSUASION IN SOCIAL/ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTS

   -Colin Higgins & Robyn Walker

   Research Objective

   The study aims to demonstrate how persuasive strategies (ethos, logos, pathos) in social/environmental reports (SERs) activate “middle ground” discourses of responsible and sustainable business. It seeks to complement discourse analyses by revealing how language use influences social actors to accept business-centred understandings of sustainability.

   Research Problem

   Despite the proliferation of SERs, questions persist about their quality, meaning, and societal effects. Critical theorists argue that SERs often reinforce prevailing capitalist structures (“weak” sustainability) while marginalizing radical alternatives (“strong” sustainability). The study investigates how rhetorical strategies in SERs persuade stakeholders to accept these business-friendly discourses.

   Database

   The analysis focuses on three early social/environmental reports produced in 2003 by New Zealand companies: Westpac (banking), SKYCITY (casino/hotel), The Warehouse These reports were selected because they emerged during a discursive struggle in New Zealand over the role of business in society, allowing isolation of persuasive techniques in an evolving sustainability context.

   Methodology

   The study employs rhetorical analysis, grounded in Kenneth Burke’s theory of rhetoric and Aristotle’s triad of persuasion: Ethos (credibility): Analysed through similitude, deference, expertise, self-criticism, and appeals to success. Logos (reason): Examined via argumentation, data, evidence, and warrants. Pathos (emotion): Evaluated through emotional appeals

   Major Findings

   Dominant Persuasive Strategies: Discursive Effects: All reports reinforced “middle ground” discourses, blending economic and ecological concerns while upholding capitalist norms. Persuasive strategies made business-centric sustainability appear reasonable and trustworthy, marginalizing radical alternatives.

7. A REPORT ON THE 2023 INTERNATIONAL FOSSILS WEEK: PROMOTING PALEONTOLOGICAL HERITAGE AND GEO-EDUCATION IN INDIA

   -Sudhir Shukla

   Research Objective

   The report aims to document and disseminate the activities, outcomes, and institutional collaborations of the 2023 International Fossils Week (IFD) celebrations across India.

   The objective is to highlight the scientific and educational value of palaeontology, foster public awareness about fossil preservation, and demonstrate the role of academic institutions, research organizations, and student chapters in advancing geoscience outreach and geoheritage appreciation.

   Research Problem

   Despite India’s rich paleontological heritageencompassing stromatolite fossils, dinosaur nesting sites, and hominid remainspublic awareness and engagement with fossil conservation remain limited. There exists a significant knowledge gap between professional geoscientists and broader society regarding the importance of fossils for understanding Earth’s history, climate change, and biological evolution. The report addresses the need for structured, multimodal outreach initiatives that bridge this gap and inspire future generations to pursue careers in palaeontology and allied earth sciences.

   Database

   Primary documentation of events organized by the Palaeontological Society of India (PSI) and its Regional Student Chapters across multiple locations including Sagar University, Dibrugarh University, Nagpur Chapter, Goa Chapter (CSIR-NIO), University of Madras, Jammu University, Central University of South Bihar (Gaya), Delhi University, and BSIP Lucknow. Lectures delivered by eminent palaeontologists including Professor Ashok Sahni, Professor Rajeev Patnaik, Dr Vandana Prasad, and others Fieldwork reports from the Lesser Himalaya of Nepal focusing on Proterozoic stromatolites in Dhading Dolomite. Fossil exhibitions, museum visits, and interactive sessions conducted at various educational institutions

   Methodology

   The International Fossils Week was organized as a multimodal, decentralized celebration employing diverse engagement strategies: Lecture Series: Expert talks on topics including dinosaur extinction in India, paleoclimate and primate evolution, tropical plant evolution from Indian fossil records, and applications of microfossils in monsoon studies and pollution monitoring. Field-Based Learning: Week-long fieldwork in the Butwal-Tansen-Pokhara-Kathmandu section examining Proterozoic stromatolites and their Astro biological significance. Exhibitions and Museum Visits: Fossil displays by the Geological Survey of India, replicas of Homo sapiens skull from Narmada Valley, and dinosaur nesting site specimens

   Major Findings

   Institutional Collaboration Success: The decentralized model involving PSI headquarters, regional student chapters, universities, and research institutions (BSIP, GSI, CSIR-NIO) effectively expanded the geographic reach and disciplinary diversity of the celebrations. Multidisciplinary Applications Demonstrated: Lectures and practical sessions illustrated the relevance of palaeontology beyond academiaincluding applications in monsoon reconstruction, pollution monitoring, archaeology, and hydrocarbon exploration

8. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN HOTEL AND RESORTS

-Partho Pratim Seal

Research Objective

This chapter aims to examine the intersection of sustainable tourism development and entrepreneurship within the hospitality sector, specifically focusing on hotels and resorts. The objective is to demonstrate how engaging local communities in entrepreneurial activities can promote socio-economic developent while ensuring ecological conservation. The study advocates for tourism development models that prioritize ecosystem preservation, economic diversification, and dispersed ownership structures as foundational principles for long-term sustainability.

Research Problem

The hospitality industry, despite its significant contribution to global GDP and employment, faces a critical perception challenge: hoteliers are often viewed as having a secluded and intangible relationship with environmental and societal concerns. Given the industry’s substantial size and rapid growth trajectory, this disconnect represents an urgent sustainability imperative. The research problem centers on identifying effective mechanisms to transform hospitality operations from potential environmental burdens into vehicles for community-centered, ecologically responsible development.

Database

Global tourism statistics from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), including projections of 1.8 billion international arrivals by 2020. Economic impact data demonstrating tourism’s contribution of approximately 10 percent to world GDP and support for one in every eleven jobs globally. Comparative investment-employment metrics indicating that travel and tourism in India creates 78 jobs per million rupees invested versus 45 jobs in manufacturing.

Methodology

The chapter employs a conceptual and analytical approach, synthesizing existing literature, industry statistics, and theoretical perspectives on entrepreneurship within tourism contexts. The methodology includes: Analysis of global tourism trends and their economic implications for developing economies. Examination of the distinction between mass tourism (approximately 90% of transactions) and alternative tourism forms (less than 10%) including ecotourism, educational tourism, religious tourism, health tourism, and wine tourism.

Major Findings

Disproportionate Employment Generation: Tourism entrepreneurship demonstrates superior employment creation capacity compared to manufacturing, with significantly higher jobs per unit of investmenta finding with profound implications for developing economies seeking labour-intensive growth pathways. Community-Centric Conservation Imperative: The most effective approach to environmental sustainability in hospitality involves engaging local communities as primary stewards of ecological resources. When residents derive direct economic benefits from intact ecosystems, conservation behaviours become intrinsically motivated rather than externally imposed.

1. Study Area- (Salkhan Fossils

   e

   Fig.1 Satellite Imag

   Fig.2 Google Image

   Salkhan Fossil Park, officially known as Sonbhadra Fossils Park, located in the Sonbhadra District of Uttar Pradesh, India, is a remarkable geological site, nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary. It is situated near the village of Salkhan, around 15 kilometers from Robertsganj, the district headquarters. Spanning approximately 25 hectares, it sits within the Vindhyan mountain range, characterized by rugged terrain, steep escarpments, and a unique geological landscape. The park is home to a rich repository of fossils dating back approximately 1.4 billion years, making it one of the oldest and most well-preserved fossil sites in the world. Salkhan Fossil Park falls under one of the key geo-heritage interest categories indicated by IUCN Evolution of life – in the 2020 Guidelines for geo conservation in protected and conserved areas.

   age

   Fig.3 Geo-tag Im ge

   1. Research Problem

      The survey at Salkhan Fossils Park encountered implementation challenges including limited digital access among rural respondents, potential language barriers despite bilingual design, and difficulty ensuring demographic diversity. The online-only format may have excluded stakeholders without internet connectivity or digital literacy. Additionally, the length of the questionnaire risked respondent fatigue, while inadequate communication about data usage may have affected response authenticity and consent. These factors potentially compromise the representativeness and reliability of the collected data.

   2. Research Objective

      To assess stakeholder perceptions regarding the economic potential of Salkhan Fossils Park for fostering local entrepreneurship through ecotourism ventures. Identify priority investments and infrastructure needs that support sustainable tourism development while ensuring fossil conservation. Evaluate the current level of local community participation and determine strategies for enhancing equitable benefit-sharing and livelihood generation. To examine environmental threats and visitor management concerns that may undermine long-term sustainability of the geo heritage site. And to explore stakeholder preferences for future development pathways, including UNESCO geopark status and community-led conservation models.

   3. Data Source & Methodology

      1. Data Source

         Primary data was collected from 40 respondents through a structured online questionnaire using Google Forms. The dataset comprises demographic information (name, age, gender, and profession) and responses to 20 bilingual (English/Hindi) questions covering three thematic areas: economic priorities and risks, environmental concerns and fossil preservation, and social benefits with community participation. Questions utilized five-point Likert scales, multiple-choice options, and one open-ended suggestion field. Respondents represented diverse occupational backgrounds including government employees, businesspersons, students, advocates, engineers, and local contractors associated with the Sonbhadra region. Additionally, the researcher conducted a physical site visit to Salkhan Fossils Park to document existing ground conditions, visitor facilities, and fossil exposures, capturing geo-tagged photographic evidence for spatial reference and observational validation.

      2. Methodology

         The study employed a mixed-method approach combining quantitative survey design with qualitative observational fieldwork. The online questionnaire was distributed digitally via email and social media platforms using purposive sampling to target individuals familiar with Salkhan Fossils Park. Bilingual presentation ensured accessibility for Hindi-speaking respondents. Quantitative data analysis involved descriptive statistics including frequency distributions and percentage calculations to identify response patterns across economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Open-ended suggestions were reviewed thematically to supplement numerical findings. Field observation through a direct site visit enabled ground-truthing of survey concerns regarding infrastructure, signage, and fossil vulnerability, with geo-tagged images providing spatial documentation of current park conditions. Limitations include the online-only format, which may have excluded respondents with limited digital access or internet connectivity

   4. Analysis &Finding

      7.1- Responding Characteristics from the survey

      Fig.4 Age Rat o

      7.1.1- According to the survey responses the frequent respondents of belongs to 31-40 age group, accounting for 45% of the total participants. This is indicating a mature, working-age demographic with direct community and economic interests. And the Second majority of the participants belongs to the age group of Above 40.

      io

      io

      Fig.5 Gender Rat o

      7.1.2- Total Number of Responses are 40. When we talk about the Gender Distribution: Out of 40, Number of male respondents is 35 & number of females respondents id 5. So, the ratio is 35:5 or 87.5% male and 12.5% female respondents

      Fig.6 Professio s

      <>7.1.3- The survey included 40 respondents from diverse professions: government employees, engineers, advocates, teachers, businesspersons, contractors, students, medical staff, a pilot, a homemaker, and security personnel. This broad occupational representation ensures balanced insights from public servants, professionals, entrepreneurs, and local community stakeholders.

      ns

      7.2- Survey Question-wise Finding and Analysis

      7.2.1- Findings: Among 40 respondents, 33 strongly agreed that UNESCO recognition would significantly boost the local economy, while 5 somewhat agreed. Only 2 respondents disagreed, indicating near-unanimous support for global heritage designation as an economic catalyst.

      Fig.7 UNESCO Heritage Status

      Analysis: The overwhelming consensus reflects strong faith in international branding to attract responsible tourism and investment, aligning with aspirations for sustainable regional development.

      7.2.2- Findings: Nine respondents prioritized creating small businesses for locals (guides, shops, homestays). Eighteen favoured improved transport connectivity, Nine preferred keeping entry free, and four supported increased entry fees.

      Fig.8 Most Imp. Eco. Priority

      Analysis: Infrastructure now outweighs entrepreneurship as the top priority, reflecting recognition that improved access is foundational before local business opportunities can fully materialize and thrive.

      7.2.3-Findings Seventeen stated current visitation helps but impact remains small. Seventeen felt it provides solid livelihoods, and Four believed benefits flow mostly to outsiders, & two saw negligible effect. Analysis: The near-equal split between minimal and solid impact reveals uneven benefit distribution.

      Fig.9 Impact of Current Visitor Numbers

      Targeted interventions are needed to broaden economic inclusion and strengthen local livelihood linkages.

      7.2.4-Findings: Twelve prioritized national marketing budgets. Eight respondents favoured training local youth as certified nature guides. Eleven supported better roads and parking, nine backed a modern visitor centre.

      Fig.10 Best Invest. for Eco. Sustainabili

      Analysis: Marketing and infrastructure investments outrank human capital training, suggesting stakeholders prioritize visibility and access as immediate levers for tourism growth over long-term skill development.

      ty

      Fig.11 Biggest Economic Risk from Rapid Growth

      7.2.5- Findings: Seventeen worried about over-commercialization ruining natural experience. Eleven respondents feared unequal profit distribution excluding villagers. Ten cited mining pressures, and two noted rising local prices. Analysis: Over-commercialization concerns dominate, indicating that preserving authentic natural character is prioritized over unchecked growth. Equity in profit distribution remains a secondary but significant community safeguard demand

      Fig.12 Concern for Fossil Preservation

      7.2.6- Findings: Thirty-two respondents expressed extreme concern requiring urgent protection for the 1.4-billion-year-old stromatolites. Four were moderately concerned. One respondent was slightly concerned and three unconcerned. Analysis: Overwhelming conservation concern confirms broad community support for protective measures. The small unconcerned minority highlights a need for targeted awareness campaigns on geo heritage significance

      7.2.7-Findings:Nineteen identified illegal mining or quarrying. Nine cited lacks of a formal conservation management plan. Eight pointed to unregulated tourism, and Four noted deforestations in adjacent sanctuary.

      Fig.13 Greatest Environmental Threat

      Analysis Illegal mining dominates environmental concerns, highlighting urgent need for regulatory enforcement and protective governance to safeguard the park’s geo heritage and surrounding ecosystem.

      Fig.14 Effectiveness of GSI Cleanliness Campaign

      7.2.8-Findings: Seventeen deemed the campaign somewhat effective only if repeated regularly. Eight found it very effective. Ten felt it was too early to assess long-term impact and Five mark that not very effective- campaigns alone dont change behavior. Analysis: Most view campaigns as only conditionally effective, underscoring the need for sustained, repeated efforts rather than one-off initiatives to achieve lasting behavioral change.

      Fig.15 Restricting Access to Sensitive Fossil Zones

      7.2.9-Findings: Fifteen opposed limits. Eleven supported strict restrictions even if visitor satisfaction decreases. Eleven believed better education and supervision would suffice. And three favoured seasonal restrictions. Analysis: Opinions are divided, but the majority leans toward maintaining access through education rather than strict physical barriers, reflecting a balanced approach to conservation and visitor experience.

      Fig.16 Most Valuable Environmental Feature

      7.2.10-Findings: Eighteen valued the scientific significance of stromatolites as early life evidence. Ten prized rarities of Precambrian fossils. Seven noted Kaimur ecosystem connectivity, and five cited scenic beauty. Analysis: Scientific and rarity values dominate, confirming stakeholder appreciation for the park’s unique geo heritage over aesthetic appeal, aligning with educational and conservation priorities.

      Fig.17 Community Involvement in Decision-Making

      7.2.11-Findings: Twenty felt experts should make final decision, Eleven believed regular consultation important and Twenty-four respondents considered community leadership essential. Analysis: Despite strong support for community leadership, many still defer to experts for final decisions, suggesting a preference for collaborative governance balancing local voice with technical guidance.

      Fig.18 Most Important Social Benefit

      7.2.12-Findings: Twenty -one prioritized educational opportunities for students and researchers. Nine valued heritage preservation, nine cited cultural pride and One emphasized employment for local guides and vendors. Analysis: Educational value dominates social benefit preferences, reflecting community aspirations for the park as a learning resource rather than purely an economic or employment engine.

      Fig.19 Current Educational Efforts for Visitors

      7.2.13-Findings: Seventeen believed current efforts are somewhat adequate but require more interpretive materials. Twelve stated visitors leave without understanding. Eleven stated the signage and information are sufficient. Analysis: Interpretive gaps persist despite some satisfaction with signage. Enhanced educational materials and guided experiences are essential to transform visits into meaningful learning opportunities.

      Fig.20 Improving Social Impact on Nearby Villages

      7.2.14-Findings: Sixteen stated that Regular community meetings to discuss park management. Thirteen prioritized hiring villagers as staff. Seven favoured sharing entry fees with village development funds and four supported local handicraft stalls. Analysis: Community meetings emerged as the top priority, emphasizing stakeholder desire for participatory governance and dialogue as foundational to equitable, sustainable tourism development.

      Fig.21 Accessibility for Students and Researchers

      7.2.15-Findings: Seventeen preferred guided tours by trained geologists. Eleven supported an on-site research centre. Nine favoured subsidized entry fees, and three backed online virtual tours. Analysis: Expert-led tours and research facilities are favored over subsidies or virtual options, highlighting demand for immersive, high-quality scientific engagement to enhance educational value

      Fig.22 Current Community Participation in Management

      7.2.16-Findings: Fourteen saw very high locals are actively involved. Twelve rated participations as low with few real opportunities. Ten described it as moderate with benefits but not management roles. And four were unsure. Analysis: Perceptions of participation are dividd, with notable segments seeing both high involvement and significant exclusion, indicating uneven community engagement requiring more consistent inclusive governance.

      Fig.21 Current Community Participation in Management

      Fig.23 Prioritizing Local Hiring vs. Outside Expertise

      7.2.17-Findings: Thirteen favoured local preference when qualifications are equal. Eleven supported local hiring with proper training. Thirteen prioritized local employment absolutely, and three favoured expertise first. Analysis: Strong local hiring preference prevails, tempered by openness to training. The community seeks employment priority while valuing capacity building to ensure service quality.

      Fig.24 Commemoration of J.B. Auden’s Discovery

      7.2.18-Findings: Thirteen rated there are clear plaques or exhibits Eighteen said it is somewhat mentioned but not highlighted. Five felt the 1933 discovery is poorly commemorated; visitors are unaware. And four were unsure. Analysis: Commemoration is inadequate; most visitors miss the discovery narrative. Enhancing storytelling through exhibits and plaques can deepen engagement with the park’s unique scientific heritage.

      Fig.25 Biggest Social Challenge Facing the Park

      7.2.19-Findings: Twenty-seven identified lack of awareness about the site’s global significance. Five cited insufficient academic collaboration. Five noted low trust between authorities and residents, and three cited land-use competition. Analysis: Limited awareness overwhelmingly dominates social challenges, underscoring urgent need for marketing and outreach to elevate the park’s profile and unlock its sustainable tourism potential.

      Fig.26 Preferred Future Scenario

      7.2.20-Findings: Thirty-five hoped the park becomes a globally recognized UNESCO geopark attracting responsible tourism. Four envisioned a community-led conservation model. And one desired minimal change. Analysis: UNESCO geopark aspirations dominate overwhelmingly, signaling strong community consensus for global recognition as the preferred pathway to sustainable tourism, conservation, and long-term economic development.

      7.3- Open-Ended Suggestions: “Any Suggestion

      Findings: Common themes emerged across suggestions, including demands for improved roads and infrastructure, increased community participation and local hiring, stronger conservation and cleanliness measures, enhanced publicity and marketing, and UNESCO recognition aspirations. Several respondents emphasized urgent development needs. Analysis: Suggestions reinforce survey findings, prioritizing accessible infrastructure, inclusive governance, and effective promotion. The emphasis on tangible improvements and global recognition reflects community readiness for coordinated action toward sustainable ecotourism.

   5. Suggestions

      Based on survey responses, key suggestions include: pursuing UNESCO Global Geopark status for international recognition; prioritizing local community participation and employment through certified guide training, small businesses, and homestays; improving road connectivity and transport infrastructure to boost visitation; establishing strict protection measures for sensitive stromatolite zones to prevent damage from trampling and souvenir collection; installing better interpretive signage and educational materials to enhance visitor awareness; creating on-site research facilities and virtual tours for academic accessibility; implementing regular cleanliness campaigns and formal conservation management plans; developing visitor amenities like shops, restrooms, and parking while guarding against over-commercialization; and ensuring revenue sharing with village development funds for equitable economic benefit. Respondents consistently emphasized balancing sustainable tourism growth with preservation of the 1.4-billion-year-old fossil heritage.

   6. Conclusion

      The survey reveals a strong consensus among respondents that Salkhan Fossils Park requires immediate, balanced intervention. Stakeholders overwhelmingly support pursuing UNESCO Global Geopark status to elevate the site’s profile while simultaneously prioritizing community-centric economic models. Respondents emphasized that development must not come at the cost of the 1.4-billion-year-old stromatolites, with clear demand for restricted access to sensitive zones and formal conservation management plans. There is a notable concern that current visitor numbers yield minimal local benefit; therefore, future strategies must center on local employment, guide training, and revenue sharing with village funds. Additionally, the survey underscores an urgent need for improved educational infrastructureinterpretive signage and research facilitiesto bridge the significant awareness gap regarding the fossils’ scientific value. Ultimately, the report concludes that Salkhan’s future hinges on a collaborative framework where government investment in connectivity and amenities is matched by strict environmental stewardship and genuine local participation.

   7. Reference

      • Abbasi, S., Mirdamadi, S. M., Omidi Najafabadi, M., & Farajollah Hoseini, S. J. (2022). Designing a model of rural ecotourism entrepreneurship development with qualitative approach. Geography and Development, 20(66), 131

        160. http://dx.doi.org/10.22111/J10.22111.2022.6716

      • Klusáek, P., Konený, O., Zgodová, A., & Navrátil, J. (2020). Application of the smart city concept in process of urban recycling – case study of pitálka in Brno, Czech Republic. DETUROPE The Central European Journal of Regional Development and Tourism, 12(1), 2240. ISSN 1821-2506.

      • Wahyuni, N. M., Astawa, I. P., & Aryaningsih, N. N. (2021). Exploration of opportunity recognition in ecotourism sustainable entrepreneurship.

        In [Conference/Journal Title Unspecified] (pp. 15).

      • Arifia, S., Ermiani, Renitawati, B., & Mukti, Z. M. (2025). Community-based entrepreneurship development for sustainable ecotourism: A case study in Bogor Regency, Indonesia. [Journal/Publisher Title Unspecified], 113.

      • Halder, S., & Sarda, R. (2021). Promoting intangible cultural heritage (ICH) tourism: Strategy for socioeconomic development of snake charmers (India) through geoeducation, geotourism and geoconservation. International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks, 9(1), 121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijgeop.2021.02.001

      • Asadi, A., & Fathi Zahraei Kohan, M. (2011). The role of entrepreneurship on ecotourism development. In *2011 International Conference on Sociality and Economics Development: IPEDR vol. 10* (pp. 3842). IACSIT Press.

      • Fenyvesi, É., Kormányos, A., & Kovács Székely, I. (2020). A budapesti vallási alapú (kóser és halal) vendéglátóhelyek jellemzi [Characteristics of religion-based (kosher and halal) restaurants in Budapest]. DETUROPE The Central European Journal of Regional Development and Tourism, 12(1), 4163. ISSN 1821-2506.

      • JETIR. (2024). Ecotourism and its contribution to sustainable development in

        U.P. Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research, 11(8), a21a31. ISSN: 2349-5162.

      • Kummitha, H. R. (2020). Eco-entrepreneurs organizational attitude towards sustainable community ecotourism development. DETUROPE The Central European Journal of Regional Development and Tourism, 12(1), 85101. ISSN 1821-2506.

      • Shukla, S. (2024). A report on the 2023 International Fossils Week. Journal of the

        Palaeontological Society of India, 69(1), 99100.

      • Situmorang, D. B. M., & Mirzanti, I. R. (2012). Social entrepreneurship to develop ecotourism. Procedia Economics and Finnce, 4, 398

        405. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2212-5671(12)00354-1

      • Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. (2022, April 29). National strategy for ecotourism 2022 (Office Memorandum No. NT-1401/2/2021). New Delhi, India.

      • Seal, P. P. (2018). Sustainable development and entrepreneurship in hotel and resorts. In Advances in hospitality, tourism, and the services industry (pp. 177183). IGI Global. https://www.igi-global.com/chapter/sustainable-development-and-entrepreneurship-in-hotel-and-resorts/205761

      • álková, D., & Tichá, L. (2020). Food intolerance and customer behavior specifics as a limiting factor for travelling. DETUROPE The Central European Journal of Regional Development and Tourism, 12(1), 119135. ISSN 1821-2506.

      • Uslu, A., & Eren, R. (2020). Critical review of service quality scales with a focus on customer satisfaction and loyalty in restaurants. DETUROPE The Central European Journal of Regional Development and Tourism, 12(1), 6484. ISSN 1821-2506.

      • [Author Unspecified]. (2023). View of study of history and paleoclimatic situation of fossil development in Salkhan, Sonbhadra, India. CAJOTAS, Central Asian Studies, 120124. ISSN: 2660-5317.

      • Sustainable Ecotourism Survey on Salkhan Fossils Park. (2026). Google Forms raw data responses (n = 40). Unpublished raw data [Responses collected 4/18/2026] https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfEmHrSUxRmYm1ihr8BbAOx9jI4nS dFniNhHKDiSlXIARUk3w/viewform?usp=header

      • (2026). Geo-tagged images of Salkhan Fossils Park site visit [Photographs]. Unpublished raw data.

   8. Appendix

• Google Form Questionnaires

• Filled Questionnaire

• XL sheet of all the responses

Ravindra bahad

Shashi Kumar V

Upendra y

32.5%

Below 20

20-30

31-40

Above 40

45%

7.5%

15%

Sustainable Ecotourism Survey on Salkhan Fossils Park

40 responses

Name

40 responses

2

2 (5%)

1 (12.(512%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(51)2%.(512)%.(512)%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(51)2%.(512)%.(512)%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(51)2%.(512)%.(512)%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(51)2%.(512)%.(512)%.(5)12%.(5)12%.(5)2%.5)1%()12.(512%.(512)%.(52)%.5)

1

0

Aash Muhammad

Ashutosh

Khushbu Ravindra bahad Subhash Yadav

Amit Shukla Deepak Singh Nikahat Shashi Kumar V Upendra y

Age

40 responses

Emergency medic

Senior

Assistant G

Gender

40 responses

Male

Female

12.5%

87.5%

Profession

40 responses

4

4 (10%)

3 (7.5%)

3 (7.5%)

3 (7.5%)

4 (10%)

3

2 (5%)

2 (5%)

2

1 (2.5%)1 (2.15%(2).15%(2)1.5(%2.1)5%(2).15%(2).15%(2).5%1) (2.15%(2).5%) 1 (21.5(%2.1)5%(2).15%(2).15%(2).15%(2)1.5(%2.1)5%(2).5%) 1 (2.5

1

0

Advocate Contrecter Government service Pilot Teacher Business/Agent Emergency medic Govt servent Senior Assistant G

Survey Questions

Increasing entry fees to

generate more revenue for

conservation /

&

Creating more small businesses

(guides, shops, homestays) for

local residents /

Improving transport connectivity

to attract more tourists /

Keeping entry free to ensure

accessibility

, even if it limits re

1. How strongly do you agree that developing Salkhan Fossils Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site would significantly boost the local economy?

?

40 responses

12.5%

82.5%

Strongly agree / Somewhat agree /

Somewhat disagree /

Strongly disagree /

2. In your opinion, what is the most important economic priority for the park right now?

, cftl ?

40 responses

22.5%

45%

10%

22.5%

Increasing entry fees to generate more revenue for conservation / &

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, homestays) for ocal residents /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more tourists /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if it limits re

1. How do you think the current visitor numbers (50100 per day) affect the economic wellbeing of nearby communities?

   , (50100 )

   ?

   40 responses

   42.5%

   42.5%

   10%

   It provides a solid livelihood for many families / f

   It helps, but the impact is still very small / , ID “g

   It mostly benefits outsiders, not

   locals /

   It mostly benefits outsiders, not ocals /

   It has almost no noticeable

   economic ef

   fect /

   It has almost no noticeable economic effect /

2. If the government had to choose one investment for the parks economic sustainability, which would you support?

,

?

40 responses

30%

20%

27.5%

22.5%

A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir shop / .. ..

A

modern visitor centre with a

café and souvenir shop /

raining programs for local

youth to become certified nature

guides /

ID

Training programs for local youth to become certified nature guides / ID

A

dedicated budget for

marketing the park nationally

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nationally

Building better roads and

parking facilities /

Building better roads and parking facilities / ..

Over commercialisation that

ruins the natural experience /

c[f

ID

Unequal distribution of profits,

leaving local villagers out /

Pressure to allow mining or

other extractive industries ne

Higher prices for basic goods in

the community /

Extremely concerned they

need urgent protection /

c[f

<>

Moderately concerned current

measures seem adequate /

Slightly concerned natural

erosion is inevitable /

Not concerned the fossils are

rock, they will last /

5. In your opinion, what is the biggest economic risk if tourism increases rapidly at the park?

,

cftl ?

40 responses

25%

27.5%

42.5%

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural experience / c[f ID

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villagers out / ,

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive industries ne

Higher prices for basic goods in the community / ..

6. How concerned are you about the preservation of the 1.4billionyearold stromatolite fossils at the site?

1.4

?

40 responses

10%

7.5%

80%

Extremely concerned they need urgent protection /

c[f ..

Moderately concerned current measures seem adequate / rr rr

Slightly concerned natural erosion is inevitable /

Not concerned the fossils are rock, they will last /

1. Which environmental issue do you think poses the greatest threat to Salkhan Fossils Park?

   ?

   40 responses

   47.5%

   10%

   22.5%

   20%

   Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collection) / “3 rr (,

   Unregulated tourism (trampling,

   souvenir collection) /

   “3

   Illegal mining or stone quarrying

   in surrounding areas /

   Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding areas / &”3 ..

   Deforestation in the adjacent

   Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary /

   Deforestation in the adjacent Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary /

   Lack of a formal conservation

   management plan /

   f

   Lack of a formal conservation management plan / f

2. How effective do you believe the recent cleanliness campaign by the Geological Survey of India (October 2024) will be in the long term?

( 2024)

?

40 responses

12.5%

42.5%

25%

20%

Very effective it sets a strong precedent / “g ID

Somewhat ef

fective but only if

repeated regularly /

ID

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regularly / ID

Not very ef

fective campaigns

alone dont change behaviour

Not very effective campaigns alone dont change behaviour

Too early to tell /

No, visitors should be allowed

to see everything up close /

No, but better education and

supervision would be enough

The scientific value of the

stromatolites as evidence of

early life /

ID

ID

Its location within the Kaimur

range, connecting to a larger

ecosystem /

The scenic beauty and

geological landscape /

ID

The rarity of such well

preserved Precambrian fossil

9. Should visitor access to the most sensitive fossil zones be restricted to protect them, even if it reduces visitor satisfaction?

cftl

, ?

40 responses

27.5%

37.5%

27.5%

Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / , ID

Yes, but only during peak seasons / , .

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything up close /

No, but better education and supervision would be enough

10. In your opinion, what is the most valuable environmental feature of Salkhan Fossils Park?

,

cftl ?

40 responses

12.5%

25%

17.5%

45%

The scientific value of the stromatolites as evidence of early life / ID ID

Its location within the Kaimur range, connecting to a larger ecosystem / ..

The scenic beauty and geological landscape / ID

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fossil

Important they should be

consulted regularly /

Somewhat important but

experts should make final dec

Not important the government

should manage it independen

Educational opportunities for

students and researchers /

&

Pride and cultural identity for

the local community /

Employment for guides, drivers,

and small vendors /

,.

Preservation of heritage for

future generations /

11. How important is it to involve the local community in decisionmaking about the parks future?

?

40 responses

50%

27.5%

22.5%

Essential they should lead the process / r .

ID

Important they should be consulted regularly / rr

Somewhat important but experts should make final dec

Not important the government should manage it independen

12. Which social benefit of the park do you think matters most?

?

40 responses

22.5%

22.5%

52.5%

Educational opportunities for students and researchers / “3 rr &

Pride and cultural identity for the local community /

Employment for guides, drivers, and small vendors / , ,.

Preservation of heritage for future generations /

1. Do you believe the park currently does enough to educate visitors about its geological and historcal significance?

   cftl

   ?

   40 responses

   42.5%

   30%

   27.5%

   Yes, the signage and information are sufficient / , r

   Somewhat, but more

   interpretive materials are

   needed /

   Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are needed / ,

   ,

   No, most visitors leave without

   understanding what they saw /

   No, most visitors leave without understanding what they saw / Im not sure /

2. In your opinion, what would most improve the social impact of the park on nearby villages?

,

?

40 responses

32.5%

10%

40%

17.5%

Regular community meetings to discuss park management / rr ID rr

Regular community meetings to

discuss park management /

ID

Hiring more villagers as guides,

security

, and staf

f /

&

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff / , &

Allowing local handicrafts and

food stalls near the park /

Allowing local handicrafts and food stalls near the park / rr

Sharing a portion of entry fees

with the village development f

Sharing a portion of entry fees with the village development f

Building an on site research

centre with laboratory facilities /

ID

Of

fering guided educational

tours by trained geologists /

ID

Creating online virtual tours for

remote learning /

&

Moderate some locals benefit

but not in management /

15. In your view, what is the most effective way to make the park more accessible to students and researchers?

,

cftl ?

40 responses

42.5%

7.5%

27.5%

22.5%

Subsidised entry fees for educational groups / & f ID

Building an on site research centre with laboratory facilities / ID

Offering guided educational tours by trained geologists / ID

Creating online virtual tours for remote learning / &

16. How would you rate the current level of local community participation in managing the park?

?

40 responses

30%

10%

25%

35%

Very high locals are actively involved / “g

Moderate some locals benefit but not in management /

Low few opportunities for real participation / (f

“g

I dont know / /

1. Should the park authorities prioritise hiring local residents over qualified outsiders, even if some outsiders have more expertise?

   cftl

   , ?

   40 responses

   27.5%

   32.5%

   32.5%

   Yes, local employment should be the top priority / , r ID

   Y

   es, local employment should

   be the top priority /

   r

   ID

   Y

   es, but only if they receive

   proper training /

   ID

   &

   Yes, but only if they receive proper training / , .. ID&

   No, expertise should come first,

   even if from outside /

   No, expertise should come first, even if from outside / ,

   No, but locals should be given

   preference when equally quali

   No, but locals should be given preference when equally quali

2. How well do you think the discovery of the fossils by geologist J.B. Auden in 1933 is honoured or commemorated at the park?

   , .. 1933

   ?

   40 responses

   45%

   12.5%

   10%

   32.5%

   Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits / “g IDr

   Somewhat the history is

   mentioned but not highlighted /

   ffi

   Somewhat the history is mentioned but not highlighted / ffi

   Poorly most visitors dont

   know the story /

   Poorly most visitors dont know the story /

   I dont know / /

3. In your opinion, what is the biggest social challenge facing the park today?

   , cftl ?

   40 responses

   12.5%

   67.5%

   12.5%

   7.5%

   Lack of awareness about the site s global significance / ..

   Lack of awareness about the

   site

   s global significance /

   Insufficient collaboration with academic institutions / & r

   Low trust between government

   authorities and local residents

   Low trust between government authorities and local residents

   Competing land use demands

   (e.g., mining, agriculture) /

   Competing land use demands (e.g., mining, agriculture) /

4. Imagine a future scenario for Salkhan Fossils Park. Which outcome do you personally hope to see in the next 10 years?

10

?

40 responses

87.5%

10%

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopark attracting responsble tourism

It becomes a globally

recognised UNESCO geopark

attracting responsible tourism

It remains a quiet, lesser known

site focused purely on scientific

research /

It remains a quiet, lesser known site focused purely on scientific research / ,

It serves as a model for

community led eco tourism an

It serves as a model for community led eco tourism an

It is preserved exactly as it is

today

, with minimal change /

It is preserved exactly as it is today, with minimal change /

Any Suggestion/ ?

40 responses

No

Government should maintain cleanliness in the park for a well environment and improve the transport connectivity.

& r r

Vikas Ho iska aur aache se taki desh duniya se aur log aaye Iske safety ki puri vyawastha honi chahiye

r (f

Many tourists places in Sonbhadra should be developed such as Mukkhafall, Dhandhraul Dam, Eco point, Samjhan etc.

Visitor place

&”3 .

The government should attract more people so that education can be influenced more effectively.

r &

Very nice place

r r r

ID

Tourism development nessary

For the future of children, the government should make children aware about visiting fossil parks.

Salkhan is our pride make it unesco heritage

r . f .

Non

r “g r

Rasta Achha ho jisse paryatan badhe Good

Aap iske baare me new generation ko motivate kare Very interesting place

. of tourism

r ,. (f ID “3 ID

Globally recognised place

Wide publicity and communication channels.

Badal bahut jaruri hai

&”3 . & “g SH 5A “g r

Park ko sanrakchan ki aavashyakta hai or ese work lebal par pahuchane ki jarurat hai All is well.no any suggestions

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Preservation of heritage for future generations / No, most visitors leave without understanding wh Sharing a portion of entry fees with the village dev Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo Low few opportunities for real participation /

It mostly benefits outsiders, not locals / A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

Preservation of heritage for future generations / Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Competing land use demands (e.g., mining, agricu It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Sharing a portion of entry fees with the village dev Building an on site research centre with laborator

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

The scenic beauty and geological landscape / Somewhat important but experts should make

Very effective it sets a strong precedent / Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Competing land use demands (e.g., mining, agricu It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

The scenic beauty and geological landscape / Essential they should lead the process /

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Sharing a portion of entry fees with the village dev Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

The scenic beauty and geological landscape / Somewhat important but experts should make

Preservation of heritage for future generations / No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Competing land use demands (e.g., mining, agricu It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

Very effective it sets a strong precedent / Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

It mostly benefits outsiders, not locals / A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

Very effective it sets a strong precedent / No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

24/03/2026 12:49:41 Raj kumar 31-40 Male Security Strongly agree / Increasing entry fees to generate more revenue fo It provides a solid livelihood for many families / A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collectio Very effective it sets a strong precedent / Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / , The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden Essential they should lead the process / Educational opportunities for students and resear Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne Regular community meetings to discuss park ma Subsidised entry fees for educational groups / Very high locals are actively involved / Yes, local employment should be the top priority / Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits / Lack of awareness about the sites global signific It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar Very interesting place

Vikas Ho iska aur aache se taki desh duniya se aur log aaye

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Important they should be consulted regularly /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Too early to tell /

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive inds

It mostly benefits outsiders, not locals / Building better roads and parking facilities /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Driver

Male

Above 40

24/03/2026 11:34:46 Aash Muhammad

Many tourists places in Sonbhadra should be developed such as Mukkhafall, Dhandhraul Dam, Eco

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Insucient collaboration with academic institutio

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Very high locals are actively involved /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Allowing local handicrafts and food stalls near th

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Important they should be consulted regularly /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It has almost no noticeable economic effect /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Strongly agree /

Teacher

Male

31-40

SANTOSH VISHWAKAR

24/03/2026 09:04:47

Very nice place

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Very high locals are actively involved /

Subsidised entry fees for educational groups /

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Essential they should lead the process /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

Very effective it sets a strong precedent / Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collectio

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Increasing entry fees to generate more revenue fo

Strongly agree /

Anm

Female

Above 40

23/03/2026 22:08:48 Rehana Begum

Visitor place

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Very high locals are actively involved /

Subsidised entry fees for educational groups /

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

Important they should be consulted regularly /

Its location within the Kaimur range, connecting t

Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collectio

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, h

Strongly agree /

Pilot

Male

31-40

Arun Shrivastava

23/03/2026 20:39:18

Good

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Insucient collaboration with academic institutio

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Subsidised entry fees for educational groups /

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Important they should be consulted regularly /

Its location within the Kaimur range, connecting t

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Not very effective campaigns alone dont chang

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collectio

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Somewhat agree /

Good

Male

31-40

23/03/2026 18:48:23 Abhishek Yadav

Iske safety ki puri vyawastha honi chahiye

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Building an on site research centre with laborator

Allowing local handicrafts and food stalls near th

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Somewhat important but experts should make

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Too early to tell /

Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collectio

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Higher prices for basic goods in the community /

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Strongly agree /

Teacher

Male

31-40

Deepak Singh

23/03/2026 17:21:57

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

I dont know / /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Somewhat important but experts should make

Its location within the Kaimur range, connecting t

Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Not very effective campaigns alone dont chang

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Strongly agree /

Govt employee

Male

Above 40

23/03/2026 10:43:59 Shravan Kumar Singh

Globally recognised place

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Very high locals are actively involved /

Subsidised entry fees for educational grops /

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Essential they should lead the process /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collectio

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Increasing entry fees to generate more revenue fo

Strongly agree /

student

Male

20-30

Md Zeeshan

23/03/2026 09:34:17

Government should maintain cleanliness in the park for a well environment and improve the transpo

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Insucient collaboration with academic institutio

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Preservation of heritage for future generations / No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Somewhat important but experts should make

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, but better education and supervision would b

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Deforestation in the adjacent Kaimur Wildlife San

Moderately concerned current measures seem

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Student

Female

Below 20

22/03/2026 20:07:49 Nikahat

For the future of children, the government should make children aware about visiting fossil parks.

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Important they should be consulted regularly /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Moderately concerned current measures seem

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

Training programs for local youth to become certi

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, h

Somewhat agree /

Student

Female

Below 20

Nahida Parween

22/03/2026 19:50:16

Park ko sanrakchan ki aavashyakta hai or ese work lebal par pahuchane ki jarurat hai

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Insucient collaboration with academic institutio

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Building an on site research centre with laborator

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

The scenic beauty and geological landscape / Important they should be consulted regularly /

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Too early to tell /

Deforestation in the adjacent Kaimur Wildlife San

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Contractor

Male

20-30

22/03/2026 18:28:43 Ashutosh

Aap iske baare me new generation ko motivate kare

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Very high locals are actively involved /

Subsidised entry fees for educational groups /

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Somewhat important but experts should make

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, h

Strongly agree /

Self employed

Male

31-40

Sunil Jaiswal

22/03/2026 18:13:11

All is well.no any suggestions

It serves as a model for community led eco touris

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

I dont know / /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Very high locals are actively involved /

Sharing a portion of entry fees with the village dev Building an on site research centre with laborator

No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

Somewhat important but experts should make

Its location within the Kaimur range, connecting t

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Not concerned the fossils are rock, they will last

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Strongly agree /

Business

Male

31-40

22/03/2026 16:27:49 Surya Prakash Singh

Non

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Low trust between government authorities and lo

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Very high locals are actively involved /

Subsidised entry fees for educational groups /

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Educational opportunities for students and resear

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Moderately concerned current measures seem

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

Training programs for local youth to become certi

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Govt job

Male

31-40

Subhash Yadav

22/03/2026 16:19:29

No

It serves as a model for community led eco touris

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Low trust between government authorities and lo

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Preservation of heritage for future generations / Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Somewhat important but experts should make

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

Yes, but only during peak seasons / ,

Too early to tell /

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

Training programs for local youth to become certi

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, h

Somewhat agree /

Advocate

Male

31-40

22/03/2026 16:17:15 Ravindra bahadur Singh

Salkhan is our pride make it unesco heritage

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

No, but locals should be given preference when e

No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

Essential they should lead the process /

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Strongly agree /

Housemaker

Female

31-40

Shweta Singh

22/03/2026 16:00:16

No

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Building an on site research centre with laborator

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Employment for guides, drivers, and small vendor

Somewhat important but experts should make

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

Very effective it sets a strong precedent / No, but better education and supervision would b

Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collectio

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Govt servent

Male

31-40

22/03/2026 15:20:37 Sanjay Singh

No

It serves as a model for community led eco touris

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Very high locals are actively involved /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Not concerned the fossils are rock, they will last

Higher prices for basic goods in the community /

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Contractor

Male

Above 40

Rama Shankar yadav

22/03/2026 15:04:38

Wide publicity and communication channels.

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Building an on site research centre with laborator

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Somewhat important but experts should make

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

Yes, but only during peak seasons / ,

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Government service

Male

Above 40

22/03/2026 14:44:51 Jitendra Chaudhary

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Very high locals are actively involved /

Building an on site research centre with laborator

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Somewhat important but experts should make

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Not very effective campaigns alone dont chang

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

Training programs for local youth to become certi

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Somewhat agree /

Advocate

Male

Above 40

Vikas kumar singh

22/03/2026 14:31:53

of tourism

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

I dont know / /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Building an on site research centre with laborator

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Preservation of heritage for future generations / Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Somewhat important but experts should make

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

No, but better education and supervision would b

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

Training programs for local youth to become certi

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Increasing entry fees to generate more revenue fo

Strongly agree /

Govt job

Male

20-30

22/03/2026 14:17:48 Sunil Kumar

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Poorly most visitors dont know the story /

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

I dont know / /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

Essential they should lead the process /

Its location within the Kaimur range, connecting t

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Somewhat agree /

Student

Male

20-30

M P

22/03/2026 13:54:05

Rasta Achha ho jisse paryatan badhe

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Poorly most visitors dont know the story /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Very high locals are actively involved /

Subsidised entry fees for educational groups /

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Essential they should lead the process /

Its location within the Kaimur range, connecting t

Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Too early to tell /

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Strongly agree /

Business

Male

20-30

22/03/2026 13:44:52 Upendra yadav

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Building an on site research centre with laborator

Allowing local handicrafts and food stalls near th

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Educational opportunities for students and resear

No, but better education and supervision would b

Too early to tell /

Deforestation in the adjacent Kaimur Wildlife San

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, h

Strongly agree /

Engineer

Male

31-40

Amit Shukla

22/03/2026 13:34:50

Badal bahut jaruri hai

It is preserved exactly as it is today, with minimal

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Very high locals are actively involved /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Allowing local handicrafts and food stalls near th

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

Important they should be consulted regularly /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Too early to tell /

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

It has almost no noticeable economic effect /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Strongly agree /

Dealer

Male

20-30

22/03/2026 12:56:15 Deepak Prajapati

No

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Low trust between government authorities and lo

Poorly most visitors dont know the story /

No, expertise should come first, even if from outsi

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Somewhat important but experts should make

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, but better education and supervision would b

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, h

Strongly agree /

Engineer

Male

31-40

Jitendra kumar singh

22/03/2026 11:00:49

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Poorly most visitors dont know the story /

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Important they should be consulted regularly /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

Very effective it sets a strong precedent / No, but better education and supervision would b

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

A modern visitor centre with a café and souvenir s Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, h

Strongly agree /

Govt employee

Male

Above 40

22/03/2026 10:40:50 Shashi Kumar Vishwaka

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

No, expertise should come first, even if from outsi

I dont know / /

Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Somewhat important but experts should make

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, but better education and supervision would b

Too early to tell /

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Advocate

Male

Above 40

Jagjivan singh

22/03/2026 10:26:08

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Creating online virtual tours for remote learning /

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Essential they should lead the process /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Too early to tell /

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Senior Assistant Govern

Male

31-40

22/03/2026 10:19:27 Vijay Babu

I dont know / /

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Somewhat important but experts should make

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Not concerned the fossils are rock, they will last

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly disagree /

Junior engineer

Male

Above 40

Ajay Kumar

22/03/2026 09:28:16

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

No, expertise should come first, even if from outsi

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Sharing a portion of entry fees with the village dev Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Preservation of heritage for future generations / No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Somewhat important but experts should make

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

No, but better education and supervision would b

Too early to tell /

Unregulated tourism (trampling, souvenir collectio

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Keeping entry free to ensure accessibility, even if i

Strongly agree /

Engineer

Male

31-40

22/03/2026 08:59:16 Chhabbu Lal

It serves as a model for community led eco touris

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Somewhat important but experts should make

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

Yes, strict restrictions are necessary / ,

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

Training programs for local youth to become certi

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Advocate

Male

31-40

Rakesh kumar

22/03/2026 08:56:12

No

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Yes, local employment should be the top priority /

Very high locals are actively involved /

Sharing a portion of entry fees with the village dev Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

Essential they should lead the process /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

No, but better education and supervision would b

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

Training programs for local youth to become certi

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Stenographer in UP PWD Strongly agree /

Male

31-40

22/03/2026 08:40:59 Shashi prakash pandey

.

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

Yes, but only if they receive proper training / ,

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Offering guided educational tours by trained geolo

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Preservation of heritage for future generations / Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Important they should be consulted regularly /

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

No, but better education and supervision would b

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

It mostly benefits outsiders, not locals / A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

Creating more small businesses (guides, hops, h

Strongly agree /

Contractor

Male

Above 40

22/03/2026 08:20:17 Ashok Kumar Singh

No

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Insucient collaboration with academic institutio

Poorly most visitors dont know the story /

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Creating online virtual tours for remote learning /

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Pride and cultural identity for the local community

Somewhat important but experts should make

The rarity of such well preserved Precambrian fos

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Not very effective campaigns alone dont chang

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Moderately concerned current measures seem

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly disagree /

Govt job

Male

Above 40

Ashish Kumar Jaiswal

22/03/2026 08:17:04

Tourism development nessary

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Somewhat the history is mentioned but not high Low trust between government authorities and lo

No, but locals should be given preference when e

I dont know / /

Creating online virtual tours for remote learning /

Regular community meetings to discuss park ma

Preservation of heritage for future generations / Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne

Somewhat important but experts should make

Its location within the Kaimur range, connecting t

No, but better education and supervision would b

Not very effective campaigns alone dont chang

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Business/Agent

Male

Above 40

22/03/2026 07:28:19 Bhola Gupta

The government should attract more people so that education can be influenced more effectively.

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Low trust between government authorities and lo

Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits /

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Moderate some locals benefit but not in manag

Subsidised entry fees for educational groups /

Hiring more villagers as guides, security, and staff

Yes, the signage and information are sucient /

Educational opportunities for students and resear

Important they should be consulted regularly /

The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden

Yes, but only during peak seasons / ,

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Deforestation in the adjacent Kaimur Wildlife San

Slightly concerned natural erosion is inevitable

Pressure to allow mining or other extractive indus

A dedicated budget for marketing the park nation

It provides a solid livelihood for many families /

Creating more small businesses (guides, shops, h

Strongly agree /

Student

Female

Below 20

21/03/2026 23:48:48 Khushbu

No

It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

Lack of awareness about the sites global signific

I dont know / /

No, but locals should be given preference when e

Low few opportunities for real participation /

Sharing a portion of entry fees with the village dev Building an on site research centre with laborator

No, most visitors leave without understanding wh

Educational opportunities for students and resear

The scenic beauty and geological landscape / Important they should be consulted regularly /

No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u

Somewhat effective but only if repeated regular

Lack of a formal conservation management plan

Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio

Over commercialisation that ruins the natural exp

Building better roads and parking facilities /

It helps, but the impact is still very small /

Improving transport connectivity to attract more t

Strongly agree /

Business

Male

21/03/2026 23:21:33 Aftab Ahmad Above 40

21/03/2026 21:09:32 Sunil Kumar 31-40 Male Emergency medical tech Strongly agree / Improving transport connectivity to attract more t It provides a solid livelihood for many families / Training programs for local youth to become certi Unequal distribution of profits, leaving local villag Extremely concerned they need urgent protectio Illegal mining or stone quarrying in surrounding ar Very effective it sets a strong precedent / No, visitors should be allowed to see everything u The scientific value of the stromatolites as eviden Somewhat important but experts should make Educational opportunities for students and resear Somewhat, but more interpretive materials are ne Regular community meetings to discuss park ma Building an on site research centre with laborator Very high locals are actively involved / Yes, local employment should be the top priority / Very well there are clear plaques or exhibits / Lack of awareness about the sites global signific It becomes a globally recognised UNESCO geopar

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Timestamp Name Age Gender Profession 1. How strongly do you agree that developing Sal 2. In your opinion, what is the most important ec 3. How do you think the current visitor numbers ( 4. If the government had to choose one investme 5. In your opinion, what is the biggest economic r 6. How concerned are you about the preservation 7. Which environmental issue do you think poses 8. How effective do you believe the recent cleanli 9. Should visitor access to the most sensitive fos 10. In your opinion, what is the most valuable env 11. How important is it to involve the local comm 12. Which social benefit of the park do you think 13. Do you believe the park currently does enoug 14. In your opinion, what would most improve the 15. In your view, what is the most effectve way t 16. How would you rate the current level of local 17. Should the park authorities prioritise hiring lo 18. How well do you think the discovery of the fo 19. In your opinion, what is the biggest social cha 20. Imagine a future scenario for Salkhan Fossils Any Suggestion/ ?