Perceptions of collective action and its success in community based natural resource management: An empirical analysis

Community based natural resource management (CBNRM) has received considerable attention in recent years and is being actively encouraged across the world as a successful strategy in promoting natural resource governance. Its efficacy in the field, however, is highly variable. The present study, based on an empirical analysis of the Joint Forest Management program in Tamil Nadu, India, explores the variation in the perceptions of collective action among community members, and analyzes the factors influencing perceptions of its performance. The results underline the need for a shared understanding of the collective action among community members for the joint venture's success and sustainability. Further, the analysis highlights the role of costs and benefits entailed in collective action in influencing the perceptions of its performance. The authors suggest careful consideration of differences in community members' understanding of the collective action and its impacts, before and during the implementation of CBNRM strategies.