The Political Economy of Forest Use and Management

This book examines the relationship between ecology, environment and the sustainable use of natural resources in the course of economic development. It presents findings of a study of two districts in the state of Karnataka which are relevaant for all developing countries.

Through a combination of historical analysis and contemporary field study, the authors argue that the political economy of forest use should not be restricted to the struggle between local interests, wider economic interests, and the state. The study draws attention to the crisis situation in forest utilization and urges that alternative institutional forms be evolved, involving the local people in forest management and regeneration.