Negi Directs Faster Disposal of Forest Rights Claims in Chamba

Chamba, September 25: Revenue, Horticulture, Tribal Development and Public Grievances Redressal Minister Jagat Singh Negi directed officials to expedite the process of recognising the rights of eligible people under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

Chairing a meeting at Bachat Bhawan here on Thursday to review the implementation of the Act, Negi said the state government was committed to ensuring eligible beneficiaries receive their forest rights. He directed concerned departments to dispose of claims within the prescribed procedure and timelines and stressed that unnecessary delays should be avoided.

Negi reviewed claims related to land ownership and interacted with officials and field staff regarding their status. He also directed the district administration to provide necessary training to all stakeholders and ensure regular meetings of the Sub-Divisional Level Committees (SDLCs) and District Level Committee (DLC) for the convenience of claimants.

MLA Neeraj Nayyiar suggested that the process should be streamlined through a pilot project and called for greater public awareness about the provisions of the Act.

Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal briefed the meeting on steps being taken in the district to secure forest rights for eligible people. Additional Deputy Commissioner Amit Mehra proposed the vote of thanks.

The meeting was attended by senior district officials and representatives of the Revenue and Forest departments.

Samagra Sikhsha