Implementation of Forest Rights Act, 2006: Approaches, Good Practices and Learning Experiences from Selected States

Abstract

The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act 2006 is considered an important step in securing justice for the tribals and other traditional forest dwellers of the country. It brings in major institutional reform to enable tenure security over productive lands which are in actual possession of forest dwellers. Similarly, it paves the way for village communities to manage community forest resources in a sustainable manner. However, the fulfillment of the intent enunciated in the law largely depends on its implementation in a manner and at a scale that benefits most of our tribal and forest dwelling population. National Resource Centre on FRA had taken up the task of documenting good practices in FRA implementation in five different states of the country so that the larger constituency benefit from the learning embodied in these case studies that captures the practices. The cases have been presented in a largely sequential manner which is coterminous with the steps followed in FRA implementation process. The cases cover the efforts of both government and non-governmental actors in diverse contexts. The cases have been presented in a short and simple format mentioning the objectives and key learning aspects. This document would help the stakeholders like officials, PRI members and NGOs engaged in facilitation of FRA and bring energy to the pace of implementation of this historic legislation.