04.02.25

Celebrating Land Rights: Van Adhikar Mahotsav in Jharkhand

The formal recognition of Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR), as guaranteed under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006—commonly known as the Forest Rights Act (FRA)—is more than a legal milestone; it is a transformative moment for Indigenous and forest-dependent communities, representing the restoration of their rights, dignity, and decision-making power. This transformation is especially evident in Jharkhand, where as part of the Abua Bir Abua Dishom (ABAD) Abhiyan (meaning ‘Our Forest, Our Country’), several villages have recently secured their CFRR titles.

To honour this achievement, these villages have hosted Van Adhikar Mahotsav—community-led celebrations marking the official recognition of their rights over forest lands. These events brought together local leaders, elders, and villagers in a collective affirmation of their identity, culture, and autonomy over their traditional forest resources.

These celebrations are a powerful reminder that CFRR recognition is not the end of the journey—it is the beginning of a new era of self-governance, ecological protection, and economic self-sufficiency. The transition from informal use to legally recognised ownership paves the way for better access to government support, sustainable livelihood opportunities, and stronger community institutions.

As more villages across Jharkhand secure CFRR titles, the momentum for community-led forest governance continues to grow. The success of Van Adhikar Mahotsav underscores the importance of celebrating these victories, reinforcing community confidence, and strengthening local governance structures to ensure long-term sustainability.