Conclusion

PAs are characterized by high levels of biodiversity and endemism. LULC changes are perceived as a major agent of landscape transitions in PAs. Mapping, monitoring and modelling will help in framing appropriate management policies to preserve ecosystem functions and resilience. All studied regions depict an increase in built-up area and horticulture that signifies increment in human interventions. KNP show loss of evergreen cover from 33 to 27% by 2016 and higher loss is witnessed in RTR region's deciduous cover. LU changes have altered ecological functions of PAs such as microclimatic moderation evident from the enhanced LST with time. The impacts in these ecologically fragile regions are long-term and non-reversible. The increase in temperature is observed in RTR, KNP signifies there will be more adverse effects in near future. The modelling prediction for 2026 reveals the loss of evergreen cover in KNP (27e18%), deciduous cover in RTR (42e40%) followed by BTR (47e44%) due to increasing in horticulture and grazing activities. The results of this study would help local authorities to understand the current situation and visualize the possible future conditions to adopt appropriate conservation strategies for management of PAs. The management plans are to be prepared to mitigate anthropogenic impacts in PAs and to address human-animal conflicts through ecosystem-based management approaches including awareness programs (outreach) in the core and buffer zones.