Involvement of Tribal Communities in protection, conservation, and management of Forest Development – EQ
In Short : The involvement of tribal communities in the protection, conservation, and management of forest development is crucial for sustainable and inclusive environmental practices. Engaging tribal communities in these processes ensures that local knowledge and traditional practices are considered, fostering a harmonious relationship between communities and their natural surroundings. This approach not only contributes to biodiversity conservation but also respects the rights and cultural significance of indigenous and tribal populations. Collaborative efforts often lead to more effective forest management strategies and the promotion of community-based conservation initiatives.
In Detail : As per the Census 2011, there are about 6,50,000 villages in the country, out of which nearly 1,70,000 villages are located in the proximity of forest areas, often referred as forest fringe villages. As per India State of Forest Report- 2019, published by Forest Survey of India, approximately 300 million people are dependent on forests.
Fifth Schedule of the Constitution of India provides special provisions for administration and control of Scheduled areas and Scheduled Tribes.
In line with the National Forest Policy, 1988 Joint Forest Management Committees and Village Eco-Development Committees have been established, through participatory approaches, at the village levels involving local communities, predominantly tribal communities in forest protection, conservation, and management of forests.
Further the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA, 2006) recognizes the rights of the forest dwelling tribal communities and other traditional forest dwellers to forest resources, on which these communities were dependent for a variety of needs, including livelihood, habitation and other socio-cultural needs.
The Act encompasses rights of self-cultivation and habitation, community rights as well as recognition of traditional customary rights and right to protect, regenerate or conserve or manage any community forest resource for sustainable use.
This information was given by Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.
