The Assam Forest Department launched the joint forest management programme with the formation of 28 Forest Development Agencies in the State. The main objective of this new forest policy is conservation of eco-diversity on the one hand, and to create means of livelihood by maintaining an ecological balance. Inaugurating a State level workshop to mark the launch of the joint forest management programme here today, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said that topmost priority will be given to plantation and conservation of forests for sustainable forest development.