From Protection to Poverty Reduction: A Review of Forestry Policies and Practices in Nepal

This paper examines the evolution of the policy and legislation in Nepal's forestry sector. The analysis reveals that there is a congenial environment for participatory forestry to contribute to the goal of poverty reduction in the country. While forestry in Nepal has mostly benefited the state authorities and the elite and did not give much consideration to the needs of the poor in the past, the policy and legislation in the country from the 1970s has evolved from being restrictive for public use, alienating the local people from the resources, to being open for improved utilization, increased participation of people and stakeholders, ensuring benefits to the local users, and regarding forestry as a potential vehicle for poverty reduction. The paper concludes that participatory forestry also stands out as a good example of Nepal's commitment towards decentralization and democratic principles. Keywords: poverty reduction, forest policy, forestry sector, participatory forestry doi: 10.3126/jfl.v5i1.1982 Journal of Forest and Livelihood 5(1) February, 2006 pp.66-77