DC stresses transparency in Forest Act implementation

Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap today chaired a key meeting to review the effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. He directed concerned officials to ensure complete transparency in the verification of FRA claims and emphasised the need for coordinated efforts across departments.

Kashyap called the FRA a landmark legislation aimed at securing land and forest rights for Scheduled Tribes (STs) and traditional forest dwellers who have lived in forest areas for generations. He underlined the critical role of Gram Sabhas and stressed the importance of authenticating records to ensure rightful beneficiaries are not left out.

The meeting also included a detailed discussion on the formation and functioning of Forest Rights Committees (FRCs), which are mandated under FRA to recognise and implement the rights of eligible communities. Officials from various departments shared progress updates, highlighted challenges in the implementation process and presented action plans to improve outreach and efficiency.