Management Planning

What is the Legal Basis for CFR Management?

- Under Section 3(1)(i) of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), Gram Sabhas have the right to protect, regenerate, and manage their Community Forest Resource (CFR) areas.
- Rule 4(1)(g) requires Gram Sabhas to form a Community Forest Resource Management Committee (CFRMC) to prepare a management plan for the CFR area.
- This plan is integrated into the Forest Department’s broader management framework.

How is CFR Management Planning Supported?

- Gram Sabhas have the autonomy to draft their own management plans.
- NGOs are encouraged to provide draft templates for guidance.
- ATREE and TISS collaborated with the Maharashtra Government to release a draft CFR management plan in 2017, later revised based on feedback and experience.

What Are the Objectives of CFR Management?

Under Section 5 of the FRA, Gram Sabhas are empowered to

1. Conserve wildlife, forests, and biodiversity.
2. Protect catchments, water bodies, and sensitive environmental areas.
3. Safeguard cultural and natural heritage of forest-dwelling communities.

Rule 4(1)(g) emphasizes that CFR management must be sustainable and equitable, aligning with the Act’s goal to enhance forest-dwelling communities’ livelihoods.

What is the Broader Vision for CFR Management?

When combined, these objectives focus on

- Developing wildlife-based ecosystems.
- Promoting equitable and sustainable use of wildlife and biodiversity.
- Using a democratic process for decision-making.

Management plans must be adapted to local languages and contexts while maintaining these overarching goals. This ensures community-led conservation and resource management are practical and inclusive.