Snapshots of International Community Forestry Networks: Country ...

Learning from International Community Forestry Networks: India Report
Though it may not be practical for international networks to communicate directly in local languages, the
need for co-ordinating translations through local networks seems essential.
4.4.4 (b) Communication and Information Dissemination
Only a few members of APNGOs were familiar with a case study conducted by AFN on Behroonguda
village, a successful example of CFM. APNGOs published the translated version of the above-mentioned
case study, and the concerned community was paid a royalty of Rs. 5000. However, this was said to be an
initiative of APNGOs rather than coming from AFN, because the author, D’Silva, seems to be recognized
in his individual capacity rather than as an AFN member. Most NGOs were not familiar with other AFN
publications. Dr. Mark Poffenberger of AFN had recently visited the state but none of the NGOs or local
networks were aware about his visit.
Many NGOs had seen the FTPP newsletter and found it very useful. A couple of people mentioned that the
circulation and response was better before the South Asia HQ of FTPP was shifted to Nepal. Members of
CWS have interacted with the European Tropical Forest Research Network, and have sent the network
information about CWS projects in AP. CWS was also the only organisation that had heard of WRM and
the Global Biodiversity Forum, but had no other information about them. They were keen on receiving
more information on these networks, but didn’t know how to go about it.
4.4.4 (c) Tools of Communication
NGOs felt that the Internet is an effective tool of communication and is currently being under-utilized by
both national networks and international networks. Most NGOs were familiar with the information cell and
the web site of the World Bank and suggested that international networks could think of developing along
those lines.
Since all international networks do have their own websites and make extensive use of them, it seems that
international networks may simply not be interesting or relevant enough for these NGOs to take the
initiative and find out more on the Internet.
4.4.4 (d) Potential Role for International Networks
1. Proactive dissemination of information. Helping local groups in distribution and translation of
documents. Exchange of best practices and good case studies.
2. Facilitating exchange visits between countries.
3. Establishment of local resource centres on specific issues.
4. Making local groups aware of the activities of international networks as well as international
processes and forums.
5. Lobbying with the World Bank and other donors at international level.
6. Training programmes at local level rather than focusing on resource-intensive training
programmes abroad. Training could include formulation of micro-plans, process documentation
and capacity building.
7. Spend time and energy in finding out what work is already being done at the local level and how
value can be added to what is happening already.
4.5 Summary of Key Points on International Networks in AP
1. International networks were almost invisible in the state. A few people had heard of AFN, and
some were familiar with the FTPP Newsletter. Most people were not familiar with publications or
other activities of international networks. Those familiar with the FTPP newsletter had found it
useful. None of the international networks seem to have in any way directly influenced any form
of community forestry in the state. Most groups felt that national networks were more relevant at
local level than international networks, especially in lobbying for certain issues. However, it
emerged that if the following points were taken into account, international networks could become
more relevant in a local situation:
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