Joint Forest Management (JFM) is a concept that involves the participation of local communities in the management and protection of forest resources. It was introduced in India in the 1980s as a way to address the problem of deforestation and degradation of forests.

History of Joint Forest Management in India:

1. Background:
- In the 1970s, India faced a severe problem of deforestation due to over-exploitation of forest resources.
- The government of India realized that the traditional forest management system was not effective in protecting forests.
- The Forest Conservation Act was passed in 1980 to control the diversion of forestland for non-forestry purposes.

2. Introduction of Joint Forest Management:
- In the 1980s, the concept of Joint Forest Management was introduced as a way to involve local communities in forest management and protection.
- The first JFM program was implemented in West Bengal in 1988.
- The program was later extended to other states in India.

3. Key Features of Joint Forest Management:
- JFM involves the participation of local communities in the management and protection of forest resources.
- The forest department provides technical and financial support to the local communities.
- The local communities are responsible for the protection of forests and are given the right to use forest resources sustainably.
- JFM programs have been successful in improving forest cover and reducing deforestation in many parts of India.

4. Advantages of Joint Forest Management:
- JFM has helped to involve local communities in forest management and protection, leading to better conservation outcomes.
- It has helped to reduce conflicts between the forest department and local communities.
- It has created livelihood opportunities for local communities through sustainable use of forest resources.

Conclusion:
Joint Forest Management was introduced in India in the 1980s as a way to involve local communities in forest management and protection. The program has been successful in improving forest cover and reducing deforestation in many parts of India. JFM has helped to involve local communities in forest management and protection, leading to better conservation outcomes.