Forest Rights Act Implementation and New Initiatives
The Union government has initiated structural mechanisms to enhance the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006. This marks shift in how forest rights are managed in India. The FRA aims to recognise the rights of Scheduled Tribes and forest-dwelling communities over forest resources. The new measures come under the Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyaan (DAJGUA), which seeks to streamline the process of granting forest rights.
Forest Rights Act
The FRA was established to empower forest-dwelling communities. It mandates the recognition of their rights to forest land and resources. The Act requires state governments to create a framework for processing claims. This includes various committees like Gram Sabha Forest Rights Committees, Sub-Divisional Level Committees, and District Level Committees.
FRA Cells
Under DAJGUA, the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs has sanctioned 324 district-level FRA cells across 18 states and union territories. These cells aim to assist in processing claims and managing data. They are not meant to interfere with existing statutory committees. Their primary role is to support claimants in preparing necessary documentation.
Funding and Structure
The FRA cells are funded by the central government through Grants-in-aid General. Each district-level cell receives ₹8.67 lakh, while state-level cells get ₹25.85 lakh. This funding represents a new approach by the Union government, previously focused on urging states to implement the FRA.
Current Status of FRA Claims
As of March 2025, approximately 14.45% of the 51.11 lakh FRA claims remain pending across 21 states and union territories. Over 42% of the disposed claims have been rejected. Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of district FRA cells, followed by Chhattisgarh and Telangana. However, Assam faces challenges, with over 60% of claims pending.
Concerns and Criticism
Activists have raised concerns about the creation of FRA cells. They argue that these cells may act as a parallel mechanism to the FRA’s established processes. Critics point out that existing committees often do not meet frequently enough to address claims. There is also worry that the new cells could create confusion among claimants.
Operational Guidelines of DAJGUA
The DAJGUA guidelines stipulate that FRA cells will assist in various tasks. These include preparing claims paperwork, gathering evidence, and digitising records. They will work under the direction of state tribal welfare departments and district administrations. The aim is to expedite the processing of pending claims.
Historical Context and Evolution
Historically, the Union government has limited its role to funding and training state officials. The introduction of FRA cells represents a shift towards more direct involvement in implementation. This change aims to address long-standing issues in the processing of forest rights claims.
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