In recent decades, various forms of developmental activities have made significant impact on the land use types of Sikkim Himalaya which necessitates the need of monitoring and mapping of land use land cover (LULC) changes for assessing various ecosystems, environmental processes and natural resource management for sustainable development. Based on secondary sources including GLAD Global Land Cover and Land Use Change dataset, the study attempts to monitor the changes in LULC patterns of Sikkim Himalaya for the periods 2000–2020. The analysis of built-up areas unveils significant transformations in urban landscapes across the districts. There has been dwindling of snow and ice cover in this ecologically fragile region. The reduction in vegetation cover, growth of built-up areas, and decline in snow/ice extent underscore the significant challenges facing biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience. The findings of the current study highlight some of the important policy implications for the sustainable management of LULC in Sikkim Himalaya. By application of remote sensing & GIS techniques, field surveys, data analysis and review of existing literature, this study identifies key patterns in land use transformation, highlights the driving forces behind these changes, and assesses their ecological, social and economic impacts. An integrated approach to formulating future development plans is imperative for maintaining sustainability in the region

GLAD, Impact of urbanization, sustainable land management, Sikkim Himalaya, Land Use Land Cover

The analysis of land cover changes, hydrological dynamics, and ecological implications between 2000 and 2020 reveals a complex relationship between human activities and natural ecosystems. The reduction in vegetation cover, expansion of built-up areas and decline in snow/ice extent underscored the significant challenges facing biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience. The decrease in the snow area in north and increase in the built up in south, east and west district of Sikkim Himalaya is a matter of concern for an area which is known for its biodiversity and is a part of Eastern Himalaya which is one of the 36 biodiversity hotspots of the world. The land use changes highlight the urgent need for data-driven monitoring, mitigation, and conservation efforts to safeguard habitat integrity, preserve ecosystem services, and enhance resilience to environmental change. An integrated approach to formulating future development plans is imperative for maintaining sustainability in the region. By prioritizing sustainable land management practices and embracing integrated approaches, the delicate balance between human development and ecological health can be achieved for sustainable future for generations to come in Sikkim Himalaya

Santosh Sharma and Sachin Kumar (2025). Land Use changes and the Impact of Urbanization During Recent Decades in Sikkim, Eastern Himalaya, India. Biological Forum, 17(4): 65-78