Question

Given below are statements regarding the programme in which the Government of India works closely with the local communities for protecting forests.

Identify the incorrect statement(s) from among the following:

• A. Statement 1 only
• B. Statements 1 and 3
• C. Statements 1 and 2
• D. Statement 3 only

Answer 1

The correct option is B Statements 1 and 3

The Government of India in the 1980s introduced the concept of Joint Forest Management (JFM).

In this programme, the government works closely with the local communities for protecting and managing forests. In return for their services to the forest, the local communities get the benefit of various forest products (e.g., fruits, gum, rubber, medicine, etc.), helping the forest to be conserved in a sustainable manner.

Joint Forest Management, often abbreviated as JFM, is a term for partnerships in forest movement involving both the state forest departments and local communities.

Forest departments with the help of local communities form a committee to manage and protect forests.

Post-Independence, hunting was banned by the Government of India under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, except for specified purposes such as for self-defence, to prevent crop damage, to counter vermin species and for scientific or educational reasons. Hunting for sport is prohibited in India. This also includes the communities involved in JFM who are not exempted from these laws.

Hence statements 1 and 3 are incorrect.