There are reports of forests fire every year in many parts of the world. Prescribed burning is a tool used in few species during specific weather conditions to achieve the desired goals. Literature have been summarised with an objective to prepare introductory note on role of prescribed burning in management of forest resources. The prescribed burning has been used to reduce fire incidences in dry seasons in various parts of world. Burning techniques, rotation, execution and assessment are vital components of effective controlled burning. There is need of opening independent organizations in many countries which can integrate with other department for forest fire management. It can be concluded that prescribed burning is an important tool in sustainable management of natural resources.