Conflict Resolution: A Critical Factor in the Success of Joint Forest Management in India

Abstract

"Joint forest management (JFM) is a system in which forestry departments and local communities share both responsibilities related to forest management and benefits in terms of the proceeds. The critical factor in its success is the resolution of conflicts between state (forest manager) and local communities and of conflicts within and between communities. In this chapter, JFM institutions in four villages are examined, and the conditions needed to minimize conflicts are identified. These conditions are: complementarity among formal institutions and between formal and informal institutions; transparency of institutions; accountability of change agents; a shift in custodial paradigm of forest managers; and absence of uncertainty."