Major step in empowering forest dwellers
*Rajouri leads in Jammu division; Anantnag in Kashmir
Govind Sharma
JAMMU, Dec 12: The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant progress under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, with a total of 6,020 forest right titles distributed. Among these, 429 individual rights and 5,591 community rights have been recognized, marking a major step in empowering forest dwellers and tribal communities.
This information was provided in the Rajya Sabha by Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State (MoS) in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change today in response to a question by J&K MP Gulam Ali Khatana.
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The districts of Rajouri and Poonch have emerged as key contributors, collectively accounting for over 4,700 community right titles. Rajouri leads the tally with 2,842 community titles, while Poonch follows with 1,901. Other districts such as Jammu, Udhampur and Kathua have also contributed to the recognition of both individual and community rights, although their numbers remain significantly lower.
In the Kashmir division, Anantnag and Shopian districts have taken the lead, with Anantnag alone distributing 308 individual and 17 community titles. Shopian follows with a commendable 220 titles, including 39 individual and 181 community rights. The district-wise recognition in the Kashmir division highlights a balanced approach in empowering both individuals and communities.
This milestone reflects the Government’s sustained efforts to empower forest-dependent communities and secure their traditional rights. Alongside the recognition of rights, significant progress has been made in forest conservation. Over the past five years, Rs 679.58 crore have been utilized for plantation drives under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), covering 508.54 square kilometers. Indigenous species like Deodar, Kail, Bamboo, and Fir were planted to restore green cover and strengthen biodiversity in the region.
In addition to conservation efforts, the Government has prioritized the protection of forest ecosystems through the establishment of a dedicated Forest Protection Force. Regular forest protection drives have been conducted within budgetary allocations to safeguard these vital natural resources.
To further support forest-dependent communities, the Government has created employment opportunities by recognizing community and individual rights under the FRA. Initiatives such as Non-Timber Forest Produce collection, formation of Self-Help Groups, and mobilization of Biodiversity Management Committees have provided avenues for improving livelihoods.
These achievements in J&K highlight a balanced approach to forest management, integrating ecological sustainability with the socio-economic development of tribal and forest-dwelling communities.
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