Improved Silvopastures for Joint forest Management in India

Forest management as practiced during the last hundred years has proved to be a myth which is apparent from the extent of open and degraded forests in India. Joint Forest Management (JFM), through a collaborative effort with people, has the potential to save and conserve the remaining forests in India. Provision of sufficient fodder, pasture and firewood in areas adjoining forest is necessary in order to prevent depletion of forest beyond the sustainable limit. Promotion of improved silvopasture systems with the help of commuuity participation in JFM programmes is important for boosting animal husbandry in villages. Various such systems are being discussed for various agro-ecosystems in the country.