The Forest Rights Act has changed the life of the forest-dwellers of “Chaingada”
The Forest Rights Act, 2006, has significantly transformed the lives of the forest-dwellers in Chaingada village, Budhmu block, Ranchi district, Jharkhand. Prior to the enactment of this legislation, the villagers faced numerous challenges and lived in constant fear of the forest department’s actions. The implementation of the Forest Rights Act, supported by initiatives like the Jharkhand Jungle Bachao Andolan, has empowered the community and improved their livelihoods and standards of living.
Before the Forest Rights Act
Fear and Legal Challenges: The villagers were often subject to legal action for collecting wood or other forest resources. Many faced false charges and imprisonment, leading to a pervasive atmosphere of fear. Activities such as gathering firewood had to be done secretly to avoid confrontation with forest department officials.
Limited Livelihood Options: Without legal rights to the forest, the villagers struggled to find sustainable livelihood options. Agriculture alone was insufficient, resulting in economic hardships.
Cultural Disconnection: The community’s cultural practices, which are deeply intertwined with the forest, were under threat due to restricted access. Festivals and rituals such as Sarna Puja, Sarhul Puja, Phagua, and Karma, which involve worshiping forest elements, were difficult to sustain.
After the Forest Rights Act
Empowerment and Rights: The villagers now view the forest as their right and resource. The Forest Rights Act has allowed them to assert their claims over the forest, leading to a significant shift in their interactions with forest department officials. The establishment of signboards marking their community rights has reinforced their legal standing.
Community Management and Conservation: The formation of the Community Forest Management Committee and the Vanasriti Mahila Sahakari Samiti has enabled collective decision-making in forest management, development, and conservation. The villagers now plant and protect fruit-bearing and useful trees, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic benefits.
Improved Livelihoods: Farming on forest land has boosted their income and improved their living standards. The dependence on the forest has become more structured and beneficial, accounting for about 40% of their livelihood needs. This shift towards self-reliance has brought stability and peace to the community.
Cultural Revival: With secured forest rights, the villagers can freely practice their cultural and religious traditions, strengthening their community bonds and cultural identity.
Challenges and Efforts in Claiming Rights
Initial Hurdles: The process of claiming forest rights was fraught with bureaucratic delays and challenges. Initial claim forms were misplaced, requiring persistence and re-submission.
Community Mobilization: The villagers’ association with Jharkhand Jungle Bachao Andolan played a crucial role in their struggle. Continuous efforts and community mobilization were essential in overcoming bureaucratic obstacles and achieving their claims.
Government Support: The lease distribution event on World Tribal Day marked a significant milestone. The government’s acknowledgment and distribution of community leases under the Forest Rights Act were pivotal in solidifying the villagers’ rights.
Village Details
Population: The village has 344 houses and a total population of 1686, with a nearly equal gender distribution (842 men and 844 women). The population includes 267 scheduled caste members and 1350 scheduled tribe members.
Land Use: The village covers 1377 hectares, with 997.73 hectares designated as forest land. Non-agricultural and barren lands comprise 40.92 hectares and 9.06 hectares, respectively. Agriculture remains the primary livelihood, supplemented by forest resources.
Conclusion
The implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006, has brought about significant positive changes in Chaingada. Empowerment through legal rights has transformed their socio-economic conditions and enabled them to preserve their cultural heritage. The journey from fear and marginalization to empowerment and self-reliance stands as a testament to the impact of the Forest Rights Act and the collective efforts of the community and supporting organizations.
