Empowering Gram Sabhas: Navigating the Controversy over Community Forest Resource Management Plans

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has reaffirmed that Community Forest Resource Management Plans (CFRMPs) are to be developed by Gram Sabhas through their committees, as stipulated by the Forest Rights Act. This comes after controversy surrounding a Chhattisgarh forest department circular, which suggested departmental control over community forests, drew criticism.

In addressing communications from Chhattisgarh, the ministry emphasized that guidelines aligned with the Forest Rights Rules assign CFRMP formulation to the Gram Sabha's Committee. Contrary to the controversial directive, the ministry supports diverse, community-tailored management plans rather than a one-size-fits-all model.

Activists have voiced concerns over the forest department's approach, arguing it conflicts with the Act's democratizing aim for forest governance. The ministry's guidance refocuses on empowering forest-dwelling communities to manage and conserve their lands sustainably, a core objective of the Forest Rights Act.

(With inputs from agencies.)