The paper summarises the socio-economic problems and basic needs of the people in the third world and suggests ‘social forestry’ as the only remedy. It deals at length, scientifically, the definition, objectives, scope, components and constraints of social forestry. It discusses and lays down the criteria for the selection of tree species to be planted under social forestry to meet the challenge and highlights in brief the forest produce, related industries, and economic benefits obtained from social forestry. The social forestry species planted in various countries are also listed. Tree species of universal importance and global adaptability have been recommended. To make it people’s programme by integrating the society through education, research, incentives and well organized network of extension services.
Manish Shrivastava (Mon,) studied this question.