This study on marine protected areas (MPAs) in India analyzes the legal and institutional framework for their establishment, and uses two case studies–the Gulf of Mannar National Park and Biosphere Reserve, and the Malvan (Marine) Wildlife Sanctuary–to document and understand the experiences and views of local communities, particularly fishing communities, with respect to the various aspects of design and implementation of protected areas. Stressing the need for fishing communities to be equal partners in all aspects of MPA design, implementation and monitoring, the study concludes with specific recommendations.