Impact Of FRA In The Life And Livelihood Of Women Headed Households Including Widows: State Initiative, Success Story, Issues & Way Forward

Abstract

The study was undertaken to understand the extent to which Forest Rights Act (FRA) has been able to impact the life and livelihood of women headed households especially in the context of recognition and assertion of women's rights to forest resources, livelihood security and participation in forest governance and decision making. Sample Districts for the study were selected keeping in view different indicators like tribal population, forest cover, FRA tile distribution, convergence status and number of Women headed households covered under different schemes. To have best representation of the indicators 7 sample districts were selected from TSP, non-TSP and partial TSP areas (Koraput, Rayagada, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh, Jajpur, Dhenkanal and Balasore). Following purposive sampling method and in consultation with PA/ITDAs, DWOs, WEOs and NGOs,363 households were covered from 11 blocks, 25 Gram Panchayats and 40 villages for the study. Women participation in FRA claim making process was found to be lacking and women title holders were least involved in the FRC and Gram Sabha meetings. IFR claims of women headed households were filed by different stakeholders like FRC members or CSOs etc. FRA has created a positive impact on the lives and livelihood of the women title holders as they now have increased access to land and the productivity of land has also been enhanced due to land development activities taken up under MGNREGA. Further, different horticulture plantations taken up in their land under convergence approach has also benefited them economically. It has been observed that that there has been no change in land use for cultivation purpose but substantial increase in land use has been found for habitation purpose post FRA implementation as now the women title holders can avail the benefits of the housing schemes. Further, post enactment of FRA and recognition of community rights it is observed that collection of MFPs has been hassle free for women members and they are now able to sell the MFPs also which is adding to their income. The key issues and challenges identified were the lack of gender segregated database due to which no proper planning and strategies could be drawn for women headed households or women title holders under FRA. No information is available about convergence programs allotted to single women or widows. Further, non recognition of FRA claims for women belonging to OTFD category stands as a major challenge. The study recommends the need to maintain Gender segregated data in ITDA level for proper tracking and planning for the development of women FRA right holders. Active participation of women members need to be ensured during FRC and Gram Sabha meetings so that they are aware of their rights and can play a key role in decision making process. Further, comprehensive convergence guideline from ST SC Development Department need to be issued so that women title holders under FRA can avail all the benefits of different programmes and schemes and due participation of women need to be ensured for the entire process.