Odisha Villages Receive Direct Funds for Forest Protection

January 24, 2025

The Odisha government is initiating project to empower local communities in forest management. As part of a new phase under the Forest Rights Act, 100 villages are set to receive direct funding into their bank accounts. This initiative aims to enhance forest protection and management by enabling local governance through gram sabhas (village councils).

Overview of the Initiative

The Project Appraisal Committee (PAC) has approved Community Forest Resource (CFR) plans for 100 villages in Odisha.
This is a pilot phase, with a proposal to extend the initiative to 400 villages.
The PAC has allocated ₹16 crore for the development and execution of these plans.

Funding Mechanism

Each village will receive ₹15 lakh annually, directly into the bank account of the gram sabha. This financial empowerment allows villagers to manage their own funds, encouraging accountability and local decision-making. Technical agencies will also receive ₹1 lakh for preparing management plans.

Role of Gram Sabhas

Gram sabhas will lead tree plantation efforts and develop need-based plans for their communities. Previously, the Forest Department managed funds under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). Now, gram sabhas will take on this responsibility, enhancing local governance.

Transition from Forest Department Control

The new initiative marks a shift away from the control of the Forest Department and Vana Surakhya Samiti (VSS). Villagers will now directly manage Community Forest Resource plans, promoting self-governance and community involvement in forest conservation.

Geographical Reach

The districts involved in this initiative include Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Keonjhar, Sambalpur, Nayagarh, Kandhamal, Koraput, Malkangiri, Dhenkanal, and Bargarh. These areas are rich in biodiversity and have forest resources.

About Forest Rights Act, 2006

The Forest Rights Act, 2006, aims to recognise the rights of forest-dwelling communities in India.
It focuses on protecting livelihoods, empowering communities, and ensuring sustainable use of forest resources.
The Act acknowledges both individual and community rights, allowing for sustainable management of forests.

Community Forest Resource Rights

Under the Act, Community Forest Resource Rights include the rights to protect, regenerate, and manage forests sustainably. These rights empower local communities to utilise minor forest produce and manage grazing and water body access.

Challenges to Implementation

Despite the positive framework, challenges remain. Delayed implementation and difficulties in proving eligibility hinder progress. Additionally, conflicts with conservation laws and opposition from industries reliant on forest resources complicate the situation.

Current Status of CFR Titles in India

As of late 2024, Maharashtra leads in recognising Community Forest Resource Rights, with over 8,661 villages granted titles.
Chhattisgarh follows with 4,328 titles
Odisha ranks third with 3,659 titles issued

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