Forests Economy and Environment

Contents: Preface. List of Appendices. 1. Introduction. 2. Theoretical background. 3. Forest resource of Himachal Pradesh. 4. Forest economy of Himachal Pradesh. 5. Impact of forests on the environment a case study of Shimla district. 6. Forest policy and management. 7. Summary, conclusions and policy implications. Appendices. Bibliography. Index.

"Forest resources of the country play an important role in the development of an economy and preserving environment. Forests are considered to be renewable resource conceptually but they are enlisted below critical zone. This is because such resources are sometimes depleted to such an advanced level that their natural recovery fails to take place, even when the exploitation has ceased. The forests are still contributing about two per cent to National Demostic Product while in the state like Himachal Pradesh their share in the state GDP is about eight per cent. On the other hand forests check the soil erosion, control slope failure and ameliorate environment.

The book as indicated by its name aims to apprise the readers about the role of forests on the economy and environment. Owing to its importance an analysis of forests policy and management has also been considered. The book is an outcome of extensive study for which a field survey was conducted in different parts of hilly districts of Himachal Pradesh. The book provides a vivid explanation to the forest resource and their importance in providing the livelihood to growing population and the need for sustainable forest management system." (jacket)