Copy of bcp 18112011 English - Natural Justice

The biocultural community protocol of maldharis of banni24Translation of letterRegarding Recognition of Banni Bio-Cultural ProtocolThe Banni Pashu Uchherak Maldhari Sangathan (BPUMS) or the Banni Breeders' Association is formed ofthe Maldharis or pastoralists residing in the Banni region of Kachchh district. The Association works for thepreservation of the pastoralist lifestyle, pastoralism, dairy development and for establishing the rights of thepastoralists.The Breeders' Association has recently prepared Banni Bio-Cultural Protocol (resolution). This resolutionwas launched on 28-11-2010 in the Banni Pashu Mela at Hodka village by Shri Vasanbhai Ahir (Minister ofState for Social and Economical Backward Communities, Govt. of Gujarat), Dr. B. K. Joshi (Director, NBAGRKarnal) and other dignitaries. This resolution was prepared after conducting several social processes withthe various Panchayats and communities of Banni. We have, in this resolution, described Banni's biological,social and ecological situation, our history, animal breeds, our traditional knowledge, our social customsand traditions, challenges before us in continuing our lifestyle, and our fundamental rights related tomaintaining our lifestyle.The Banni Bio-Cultural Protocol is a written document of the pastoralists of Banni, which we are presentingbefore the government, policy makers, legal experts and the society. We, the pastoralists of Banni, and thePanchayats of Banni approve and support this bio-cultural protocol of Banni.With this, we request the government to approve and recognize this bio-cultural protocol of Banni preparedby the pastoralists of Banni.