The Village Forest Committees (VFCs) were established after the 1988 National Forest Policy to empower local communities to protect and manage forests. VFCs, also known as forest protection committees, are composed of adult villagers and are responsible for preparing and implementing 10-year management plans to protect and develop degraded forest areas. They work closely with forest departments and play an important role in protecting forests from threats like encroachment, fires, illegal cutting, and poaching through activities outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding.