Social Forestry: Farmers’ Perspective on Practice and Implications for Socio-Economic Conditions of the Farmers in Peshawar Velley, Pakistan

Abstract

The concept of social forestry, which combines sustainable rural development with the management of forest resources, has had a substantial impact on the socioeconomic conditions and means of subsistence of farmers in Pakistan's Peshawar Valley. The current status of social forestry practices and their effects on income, job possibilities, resource access, and community development are examined in this study from the viewpoint of farmers. Semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were used to collect data using a qualitative research methodology. According to the research, social forestry has improved farmers' financial security by supplying forest goods like lumber, fruit, and fodder while simultaneously raising awareness of the need to preserve the environment. Additionally, farmers' rights to access and use natural resources have been reinforced and collective action has improved as a result of participatory community management. Progress is still hampered by a number of issues, though, such as insufficient finance, a lack of technical expertise, poor policy execution, and restricted market access. As a result, although some farmers are aware of social forestry's potential, others are still wary and would rather stick to conventional farming, taking a wait-and-see stance about its possible long-term advantages. According to the study's findings, the government should create effective market mechanisms, offer financial incentives and technical help, and fortify policy support in order to guarantee the sustainability and fair growth of social forestry.