SRINAGAR, May 23, 2026 : Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday chaired a high-level meeting to review implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting focused on assessing the status of claims filed under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), functioning of various committees constituted under the legislation and measures being undertaken for safeguarding the rights of tribal communities in the Union Territory.
During the review, the Minister stressed the need for extensive public outreach and directed concerned officers to intensify awareness campaigns among tribal communities regarding the provisions of the Forest Rights Act as well as the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
He said eligible beneficiaries must be made fully aware of their constitutional and legal rights to ensure that they can avail the protections and benefits guaranteed under the law.
Javed Rana also reviewed the nomination process for Block, District and Union Territory-level committees constituted under the FRA and emphasized the importance of timely nominations and effective functioning of these bodies for transparent implementation and prompt disposal of claims.
The Minister directed officials to examine all unattended claims on priority and ensure that action is taken strictly in accordance with legal provisions.
He reiterated that the core objective of the Forest Rights Act is to protect the legitimate rights of forest dwellers and ensure justice for tribal communities.
Officials informed the meeting that Forest Rights Committees have largely been constituted across the Union Territory and implementation of the Act is underway in different districts.
The Minister further directed that any eviction process, wherever required, must strictly follow due legal procedure and conform to guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court of India.
He underlined that the dignity and rights of tribal communities must remain protected under all circumstances.
“The basic rights of tribal communities cannot be snatched and every action must remain within the framework of law and justice,” the Minister asserted while reaffirming the government’s commitment towards safeguarding the interests of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including the Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology & Environment; Principal Chief Conservator of Forests; Secretary Tribal Affairs Department; Director Tribal Affairs J&K; Chief Conservator of Forests Jammu; Chief Conservator of Forests Kashmir; Director Tribal Research Institute J&K and other officers.
