People's Involvement in Resource Management in Madhya Pradesh

People's involvement in Resource Management in Madhya Pradesh has been tremendous since the inception of the World Bank aided Madhya Pradesh Forestry Project. Joint Forest Management has come a long way in Madhya Pradesh. Considering the fact that there were only around 350 Committees in the year 1993, which has expanded to more than 12,100 today speaks in itself for the tremendous enthusiasm that has been generated as a result of this movement. People's participation has increased due to a lot of Income Generating Activities and Resource Development works that has been taken up in the villages which has subsequently increased the socio-economic condition of the people. Coupled with this the attitudinal change that has taken place among the staff of the Forest Department has created a very cordial atmosphere between the staff and villagers. The likelihood of sustainability is very high, provided that the incentives are maintained and local participation ensured. Sustainability can be assured only when there is a genuine involvement of the community at each level. At present, the Committees are performing their roles of protect ion offorests effectively. However, their role in management, decision-making, access to information, etc. needs to be further strengthened. The foundation for participatory management of forests have been laid. It is time to consolidate and build upon these initiatives so that the long-term security and development of the forests of the State can be ensured.