200 Sq. Kms of Forest Land Declared As Community Forest in Budgam
`Srinagar, Jul 30 : At least two-hundred square kilometers of Forest Land were declared as ‘Community Forest’ in a collective Gram Sabha organised between Panchayat Halqas of Brenwar, Neego, and Jabbard in central Kashmir’s Budgam district under Community Forest Rights (CFR) of Forest Rights Act – 2006.
In a remarkable display of unity and collective action in the region, the communities of Brenwar, Neego, and Jabbard, along their counterparts from other Panchayat Halqas, deeply committed to the cause of conserving their local forests and preserving their natural heritage, brought about the realization of the historic step on Saturday (July 29, 2023).
The atmosphere during the proceedings was charged with enthusiasm and determination, as the participants recognized the significance of the event in securing their rights to the land they had cherished for generations.
“With the resolution designating 200 square units of forest land as a community forest, the local community members felt empowered and elated to have gained ownership and management rights over this precious resource”, said a participant to the Gram Sabha.
This Sabha, he said, reflected the co-existence and belongingness to the forests and a strong sense of duty to protect and nurture the forests.
“The community members understood that this ownership would enable them to make decisions that aligned with their livelihoods, cultural practices, and deep-rooted traditions. The commitment to conserving the forests, rangelands and mountains, along with the sustainable use of minor forest produce and forest foods, reflected the communities’ understanding of the delicate balance that needed to be maintained between human activities and the natural environment. By acknowledging their role as stewards of these lands, the local population demonstrated their genuine concern for promoting biodiversity and mitigating the adverse impacts of deforestation and environmental degradation.”
The notable personalities present on the occasion included; Nazir Ahmed Chowdhary, Vice-chairman DDC Council Budgam, Kulsuma Bano, BDC Chairperson of Suresyar, as the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour. Sarpanch Jadden Mohammad Aslam Khan and FRC Chairperson Jadden, Sarpanch and FRC Chairperson Ladden, Sarpanch and FRC Chairperson Gogjipathri, Sarpanch and FRC Chairperson Bonen, Sarpanch Shumnag Muqam and FRC Chairperson Shumnag Muqam- Nazir Ahmed Chopan were also present on the occasion.
The involvement of eminent experts like Dr. Shaikh Ghulam Rasool and Dr. Zahid Parwaz Choudhary from the J&K Forest Rights Coalition further lent credibility to the proceedings, ensuring that the Gram Sabha was conducted with the utmost professionalism and expertise.
Sarpanch Shumnag Muqam, Nazir Ahmed Chopan said alpine meadows like Leed, Ladar Madd, Zand-Kabar, Diskhal, Kundlen belong to the Chopan community as per community byelaws and have been using these as a grazing land for over 600 years now.
He said the division of pastures is very clear between Gujjars and Chopans and hence everyone should respect it.
Mohd Ashraf Jahara’s adept coordination of the Joint Gram Sabha demonstrated the essential role of committed individuals in driving positive change within the community. As a Senior RTI activist and District President of the J&K Forest Rights Coalition, his efforts played a pivotal part in making the event a resounding success.
The heartfelt congratulations extended by the Forest Rights Coalition (FRC) of Jammu and Kashmir further validated the impact of the community’s collaborative efforts. The assurance of continued support for awareness-raising and capacity-building initiatives emphasized that this was not a one-time event, but rather the beginning of a sustained journey towards safeguarding community forests and preserving natural resources.
The coalition’s commitment to assisting the local communities in claiming their individual and community forest rights, as well as advocating for the implementation of forest rights across Jammu and Kashmir, showcased the enduring nature of their dedication to environmental conservation. The numerous training workshops conducted on relevant topics illustrated the FRC-J&K’s proactive approach in empowering communities with the knowledge and tools to actively participate in safeguarding their environment. (GNS)
