Tribal Farmers in Maharashtra Protest for Land Rights and Implementation of Forest Rights Act
Thousands of tribal farmers from Palghar and Nashik districts in Maharashtra have organized long marches to demand land rights, employment, and irrigation. The core of the protest is the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. Tribals claim that many individual land claims have been rejected or that titles are issued in the name of the entire village rather than individuals, making them ineligible for government schemes. They are also demanding the completion of pending recruitments under the PESA Act and the diversion of west-flowing rivers to drought-prone tribal areas.
Key Points
- The protests focus on the proper implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.
- Over 45% of claims under the FRA in Maharashtra have been rejected, according to data accessed by The Hindu.
- Tribals are demanding that land titles be issued in individual names to facilitate access to institutional loans and government subsidies.
- Other demands include the implementation of the PESA Act, 1996, and 24-hour electricity for agriculture.
Exam Facts
- Relevant Acts: Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006; PESA Act, 1996.
- Rejection rate of FRA claims in Maharashtra: >45%.
- Districts involved: Palghar and Nashik.
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