Recently, the Union Government instructed states to record settlement rights in revenue and forest records within three months. This order places the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, and the digitization of land records at the forefront of Indian legislative discussion. The aim is to prepare a final map of forest land vested under the FRA to communities, thereby providing clear demarcation of ownership and occupancy rights.
Key Points of the Notification
The government intends to integrate digital data on the Record of Rights (RoR) into web Geographic Information System (GIS) platforms and the PARIVESH portal under the Forest Right Act (FRA). Once the process of settling rights and issuing titles is complete, the updated map will be incorporated into the state’s land records. The directive from the ministry also calls for GIS surveys of each land patch, as well as the maintenance of geo-referenced digital vector boundaries for better accuracy and clarity.
Benefits of Updated Land Records
Updated land records, along with FRA title data, will help eliminate conflicts between tribals and officials. Geo-referencing of RoR under the FRA will allow the forest and tribal welfare departments to initiate targeted projects for improving the livelihoods of FRA title holders.
Understanding the Forest Rights Act, 2006
The Forest Rights Act, 2006, vests forest rights and occupation rights in Forest Dwelling Scheduled Tribes (FDST) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (OTFD). The Act empowers communities who have resided in such forests for generations, ensuring their livelihood and food security while maintaining forest conservation. The Act identifies four types of rights – Title Rights, Use Rights, Relief and Development Rights, and Forest Management Rights.
India’s Push For Digital Land Records
India has launched several initiatives to digitize land records. The SVAMITVA scheme aims to map land parcels in rural areas using drone technology. The PARIVESH portal allows for online submission and monitoring of proposals for seeking environmental, forest, wildlife, and coastal regulation zones clearances. Other initiatives include Bhumi Samvaad, National Generic Document Registration System, and the Unique Land Parcel Identification Number, aimed at achieving a streamlined and unified approach towards land management.
The Role of Geographic Information System (GIS)
Geographic Information System (GIS) is a critical tool for capturing, storing, checking, and displaying data related to the Earth’s surface. GIS can help individuals and organizations understand spatial patterns and relationships, making it an essential tool in tasks that involve location-based data.
Previous UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
The article includes two previous UPSC Civil Services Examination questions related to the Forest Rights Act, 2006, and related aspects. These questions provide insights into the examination pattern and act as a guide for aspirants preparing for the examination.