The Tribal Development Department has decided to execute the first phase of Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Forest Rights Recognition) Act, 2006 in the tribal areas from 6th April, 2008.
The main objectives of the act is to decide on and recognize those forest rights of tribal forest dwellers living in forests since generations but were subjected to historical injustice. The act would be implemented in tribal areas of district Kinnaur, Lahaul Spiti and Pangi and Bharmour areas of district Chamba.
Any member of scheduled tribe, community or any other traditional forest dweller, who is dependent on forests for livelihood, has possession over forest land prior to 13th December, 2005 and continued ownership till 2nd January, 2007 can present their claims. The last dates for receiving claims will be decided in the Gram Sabha meeting.
