11. Implications of Water Security on Indigenous Women—Case from Buffer Zones of Nepal

The chapter begins by discussing the global issue of freshwater availability, highlighting the stark contrast between the abundance of water on Earth and the scarcity of freshwater for human consumption. It then shifts focus to Nepal, where water scarcity is a pressing national issue, affecting the country's water, food, and energy security. The Chure region, in particular, is vulnerable to water shortages due to deforestation, climate change, and mining activities. The chapter explores the impact of these pressures on indigenous communities, with a specific focus on women, who bear the brunt of water insecurity. It discusses the challenges they face, including long travel distances to water sources, health risks from contaminated water, and the socio-economic implications of water scarcity. The chapter also highlights the need for sustainable water management practices and the importance of community involvement in water conservation efforts.