Formation of Forest Resource Management Committees in Shoar and Shoon, Pangi
Communities gather to form a new chapter in sustainable forest management, democratically electing their Forest Resource Management Committee.
The Forest Right Act, 2006 emphasizes the importance of forming democratically elected committees, like the 4(1)(e) Committees, which play a crucial role in decision-making and implementation of sustainable practices.
The recent developments in forest management in the Shoar and Shoon villages of Pangi Valley mark a significant stride towards sustainable environmental stewardship. From the 16th to the 22nd of October, notable progress was achieved through community-driven efforts. Central to our field visit was the formation of 4(1)(e) Community Forest Resource Management Committees (CFRMC) where the active participation of women and youth groups played a pivotal role. The process was characterized by inclusivity and democratic principles, as evident in the unanimous selection of committee members by the Gram Sabha in both villages.
The Community Forest Resource Management Plans (CFRMP) developed are comprehensive, covering aspects of conservation, sustainable use, and equitable benefit sharing. They are tailored to the unique ecological, social, and economic contexts of the villages, reflecting a deep understanding of the local biodiversity and traditional knowledge systems. This approach not only supports the ecological integrity of the forests but also strengthens community rights and livelihoods, paving the way for a sustainable and harmonious coexistence with our natural environment.
The heart of these efforts lay in the drafting and the modification of management plans. These drafts, prepared with considerable forethought, underwent extensive discussion and refinement during the meetings, ensuring comprehensiveness and representation of the community’s needs. The leadership of our team members Sant Ram and Hans Raj will be instrumental in this phase, demonstrating a commitment to not only solidify these plans in Shoar and Shoon but also to replicate this success in neighbouring villages.
The involvement of government authorities added a crucial dimension to sustainable forest governance. The meeting with the Resident Commissioner (RC), Pangi was particularly noteworthy, as it underscored the government’s recognition and support for the advancements in the Pangi Valley. The discussion extended beyond mere accolades, focusing on tangible actions such as organizing meetings for the rectification of the Community Forest Rights (CFR) claims. The proactive stance of RC Pangi highlighted the ongoing efforts to expedite the formation of the Sub-Divisional Level Committee (SDLC). The anticipation of new committee member appointments and the subsequent SDLC meeting to address the remaining claims signified a collaborative approach between local communities and governmental bodies.
The formation of forest management committees and plans in Shoar and Shoon are a testament to the power of community engagement and effective governance in environmental conservation. The synergy between the local communities’ efforts and government support paves the way for sustainable development in the Pangi Valley. With the formation of the SDLC and the continued involvement of various stakeholders, there is a hopeful outlook for the future of forest management in the region.
