JOHAR! is a welcoming or greeting tradition of the people of Jharkhand or the Adivasis of Jharkhand. How to do and how not to do? To know about the meaning and culture behind the gesture of JOHAR, Watch this full video.
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 […]
The story of Raisinghdiri village’s transformation through the Forest Rights Act (FRA) unfolds as a journey from struggle to empowerment, from fear to hope, and from poverty to prosperity. Let’s encapsulate this narrative of change and growth.
Introduction to Raisinghdiri: Raisinghdiri, nestled amidst forests and mountains in Jharkhand, was a village plagued by poverty and land disputes before the implementation of the Forest Rights Act. Home to predominantly Munda tribal families, their history is one of struggle against exploitation and marginalization. Pre-FRA Era Challenges: The village faced a litany of challenges, including legal battles with the Forest […]
Dango: An Active and Strong Gram Sabha (Success stories-#1)
Introduction: – Dango village, situated under Kuchai block of Seraikela-Kharsawan district, lies approximately 4 km southwest from the block headquarters. The village comprises five tolas inhabited by people from Munda, Ho, Tanti, Gop, and Lohar communities. Around 85 percent of the villagers depend on the forest for their livelihood. Dango village actively participates in various programs and activities. Population and […]
Demolition in Lalkimati Village: A Clash Between Community Rights and Forest Department Actions
On May 18th, 2024, a significant incident took place in the village of Lalkimati, located within the Tajpur Panchayat of Chouparan block in Hazaribagh District. The Forest Department demolished two houses that were under construction, leaving the affected families in distress and igniting a heated discussion on community forest rights. The Incident The houses belonged to Nainu Munda, husband of […]
Asserting Forest Rights: Erection of Bill board in Rouro Village
On February 20th, 2024, the villagers of Rouro in Upar Barga Panchayat, Gola Prakhand, Ramgarh district, came together for a momentous occasion to assert their rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006. This significant event saw the villagers erect billboards along their traditional forest boundaries, emphasizing their entitlements under Section 3(1)(i) and Section 5 of the FRA. A […]
Gram Sabha Manch Kuchai’s Plea to Prime Minister via BDO: Save Hasdev Aarnya Forest in Surguja District, Chhattisgarh
Introduction: In a fervent display of unity and concern for the environment, the Gram Sabha Manch of Kuchai Block in the Saraikela-Kharsawan district of Jharkhand took to the streets on January 27, 2024, to protest the rampant destruction of the Hasdev Aarnya Forest. Led by Jharkhand Jangal Bachao Aandolan leader, Mr. Sohan Lal Kumhar, the members of the Gram Sabha […]
Unlocking the Potential of Tendu Leaf: A Comprehensive Training Program
In a bid to empower local communities and harness the potential of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), a one-day training program on the collection, processing, and marketing of Tendu Patta (Biddi Patta) was conducted on January 23, 2024, at Prem Prakash Sabhagar in Kotari village. This initiative was spearheaded by the Institute of Community Forest Governance (ICFG). Participation and Overview: The […]
Empowering Communities through Forest Rights: A Field Report from Gadchiroli
Introduction: In a recent field visit to the tribal villages of Gadchiroli, our team explored the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and its impact on local communities. The journey took us through Menda (Lekha), Kasari, Andhki, and Bhimnna Payali villages, revealing inspiring stories of self-governance, sustainable resource management, and economic development. Menda (Lekha) Village: Pioneering Community Forest Rights […]