Long-term success of national parks and protected areas requires a shift in management philosophy that combines resource management with a sensitive understanding of the social and economic needs of the local people. This paper analyses current conflicts and issues between local people and Royal Chitwan National Park (RCNP). The role of cattle in local subsistence economy is highlighted, and problems of agricultural/livestock depredation by wildlife are discussed. Potential solutions discussed emphasize the need for the RCNP to accept the responsibility of meeting subsistence needs to firewood and fodder of people living in an 'impact zone' by initiating community forestry programmes and by promoting ways and devices to increase the efficient use of available resources.