Subrat Adhikari | Current Graduate Students

For Subrat Adhikari, a Master of Environmental Studies student in the Department of Geography and Environmental Management, the International Experience Award offered more than just financial support—it enabled a powerful and eye-opening research journey to Chitwan, Nepal.

Subrat traveled to the region to conduct fieldwork for his master’s thesis, Understanding the Dynamics of Human-Tiger Conflict in Chitwan National Park, Nepal. Known for its population of Bengal tigers, Chitwan has seen a rise in human-tiger conflicts since 2018, a trend that Subrat was eager to study up close.

“My research was related to human-tiger conflict, and I chose Chitwan because it is famous for Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris tigris). Recently, post 2018, there has been a rise in human-tiger conflicts in the vicinity of Chitwan National Park. The primary reason for choosing Chitwan was because it is a prime location for wildlife tourism in Nepal, so I wanted to know how the local community are coping with both the increase in tiger populations and human-tiger conflict.”

Through interviews and travel across the region, Subrat encountered firsthand the human cost of living in proximity to protected wildlife.

“I was able to realize that I am living a very comfortable life as I met several families that had been victims of tiger attacks. Some families had lost their dear ones. One can't imagine what kind of trauma these families must have gone through.”

A key finding of his research was that communities relying on forest resources for essentials like firewood and fodder are particularly vulnerable, especially near riverine grasslands.

“The key takeaway of the research was the communities dependent on the forest resources, such as fodder and firewood, were vulnerable to tiger attacks, especially in the vicinity of riverine grasslands forest.”

Despite the challenges, the experience was full of memorable moments—both professional and personal.

“Travelling hundreds of kilometers in motorcycle in scorching heat and sometimes during heavy downpours to meet several people was the favourite part of my experience. Also, the food experience, especially the Tharu cuisine, was amazing.”

For students considering their own international research opportunities, Subrat offers enthusiastic encouragement.

“I would recommend any students considering an international experience as it allows you to be a part of an exciting and unpredictable journey. Meeting different people, and understanding their perspectives and culture will allow you to broaden your outlook in life.”