The UNDP Report Raises Red Flags in FRA Implementation

A report on the progress of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, was issued by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It reveals that a sunset clause is necessary to put an end to the rights recognition process and emphasises on reforms to governance, equity and sustainable forest management.

FRA Progress and Gaps

The FRA acknowledges individual and community rights of people living in forests. More than 2.32 crore titles have been issued out of which 1.88 crore are community rights. But it represents only 18 percent of the 9.88 crore acres that were estimated to be qualified. Poor records, policy gaps and tribal and forest authority conflict have slowed implementation.

State-Level Insights

The Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Odisha study identified missing records and inaccurately issued titles. To make processes quicker, officials proposed a cut-off point to recognition. Proper, centralised information is a major requirement.

Governance Challenges

The report emphasizes the inter-departmental committees in order to fill the gaps between the forest and tribal welfare departments. It also encourages integration of Gram Sabha approved forest plans with departmental working plans at timely stage so as to enhance community resource management.

Gender Equity

One of the recommendations is to place women at the centre of FRA. The report recommends disaggregated information on gender, women in forest management, and connecting FRA with National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) to enable livelihood programmes aimed at women.

Policy and Intellectual Property.

UNDP therefore suggests a National Tribal Policy and utilization of Article 275(1) funds as means of ensuring that FRA matches laws such as PESA. It also points to loopholes in the identification of community rights over biodiversity and minor forest produce (MFP). The ownership, sale and monetisation of resources like bamboo and tendu require clearer policies.

Way Forward

It is emphasized in the report that the promise of FRA goes beyond rights recognition and is long-term governance, equity, and livelihood security. Its achievement will depend on stronger policy integration and approaches that are gender-sensitive.