Q. At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006?
a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
b) Ministry of Panchayati Raj
c) Ministry of Rural Development
d) Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Correct Answer: d) Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper
Explanation :
Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006
The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, also known as the Forest Rights Act (FRA), is a pivotal legislation in India that acknowledges the rights of the Scheduled Tribes (STs) and other traditional forest-dwelling communities to the forest resources upon which they have historically depended. This Act is designed to rectify the historical injustices faced by these communities by providing them with legal recognition and protection for their land and resource rights.
Role of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs in Implementing the FRA
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the central agency responsible for the effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act at the national level. Its responsibilities include:
- Overseeing the implementation of the Act across India.
- Providing guidance and support to state governments in recognizing and vesting forest rights.
- Developing rules and issuing guidelines to aid the implementation of the Act.
- Monitoring the progress and addressing challenges in the Act’s implementation.
- Coordinating with other relevant ministries, such as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, to ensure that environmental conservation goals are balanced with the objectives of the Act.
- Advocating for the rights of STs and other traditional forest dwellers to ensure their concerns are considered during the implementation process.
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs primarily focuses on the welfare and development of Scheduled Tribes in India. The Forest Rights Act is under its jurisdiction as it directly impacts the rights and livelihoods of these communities. The ministry collaborates with state governments, which handle the on-the-ground implementation of the Act, including processing claims and distributing land titles.
