SRINAGAR: In a landmark decision, the Gram Sabha of Gulistan Hajan, Tral, located in the Pulwama district, has declared 200 square kilometres of forest land as a Community Forest. This significant event, organised under the Forest Rights Act of 2006, witnessed a massive turnout of residents, demonstrating strong community support for the initiative, a statement issued by the people involved in the exercise said.
The Gram Sabha was held in the presence of Basit Nabi, the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Aripal subdistrict, Tral. He insisted the crucial role of Gram Sabhas in the development and conservation process, highlighting the importance of community involvement in sustainable forest management.
Officials from the Department of Wildlife and the Department of Forests of the Jammu and Kashmir Government were also in attendance, underscoring the event’s importance. The procedures of the Gram Sabha were coordinated by Dr Shaikh Ghulam Rasool, the founder of the J&K Forest Rights Coalition, and Zahid Parwaz Choudhary, the Convener of the coalition. The event was further facilitated by the J&K Forest Rights Coalition (FRC), ensuring a smooth and effective process.
During the Gram Sabha, a detailed resolution was read out and unanimously passed by the Forest Rights Committee, Panchayat members, and the Gram Sabha attendees. This resolution officially declared 200 square kilometres of forest land as a Community Forest, mandating the panchayat to ensure the conservation of forests, mountains, and wildlife. It also emphasised the sustainable use of minor forest produce and forest foods, aligning with the principles of the Forest Rights Act.
Apart from conservation efforts, the resolution included a provision for nature-based community tourism in the area. This initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the local community and the environment.
The declaration of such a large area as a Community Forest is a historic step towards community-led conservation and sustainable forest management in Jammu and Kashmir. Community forests, managed and governed by local communities, play a vital role in preserving forest ecosystems, reducing deforestation, and promoting biodiversity. This approach empowers communities to use forest resources for their livelihoods, traditional practices, and cultural activities, while also ensuring the conservation of these vital ecosystems.
The recognition of Community Forests as a legitimate land-use category marks an important development in forest governance and management. The commendable move by Gulistan Hajan sets a precedent for other communities and governments to follow, promoting community-led forest management and conservation efforts across the region.
The successful declaration of the Community Forest in Gulistan Hajan is hoped to inspire similar initiatives, fostering a collaborative approach to forest conservation and sustainable development in Jammu and Kashmir and beyond.
