ST Commission to seek report from NTCA on villages' relocation from tiger reserves

Contact Counsellor

Last Updated06/11/2024

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has taken cognisance of representations sent to it against a June advisory of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has addressed concerns regarding the National Tiger Conservation Authority’s (NTCA) June advisory urging state forest departments to submit relocation action plans for villages within tiger reserves. The NCST is assessing potential impacts on tribal communities’ rights and the legality of the advisory.

Full Commission Meeting: The NCST held a full commission meeting on September 24, chaired by Antar Singh Arya, to review complaints against the NTCA advisory. The commission decided to request a report from the NTCA on the relocation issue, with this decision ratified in late October.
Request for Action-Taken Report on Compensation: The NCST is also seeking an update from the Union Environment Ministry and NTCA regarding its 2018 recommendation for revising relocation compensation. The commission had suggested aligning compensation with the Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement Act, 2013, which would enhance the compensation package and expand entitlements.
Current Compensation: NTCA revised the compensation in 2021, raising it from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh per family for voluntary relocation.

Representation by Tribal Rights Groups: A collective of over 150 tribal rights groups opposed the NTCA’s advisory, contending it violates the Forest Rights Act, 2006, and Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2006, which state that relocation must be voluntary. They also argue that the advisory overlooks necessary legal steps for tribal rights recognition and informed consent.
Legal Requirements for Relocation: Under the Wildlife Protection Act, relocation from tiger reserves requires:
- Recognition of tribal rights as per the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
- Informed consent from the Gram Sabha.
- Confirmation from state authorities, based on ecological consultations, that tribal presence endangers the tiger habitat without alternative co-existence options.
The NCST’s review includes inviting activist groups to share their perspectives on the advisory’s potential infringement on these legal safeguards.

Villages Inside Core Tiger Habitats: As per NTCA, 591 villages with 64,801 families currently reside in core tiger areas across 54 reserves in 19 states. Thus far, 251 villages with 25,007 families have been relocated.
Entitlements for Relocated Families: Families that opt for relocation receive Rs 15 lakh per family, along with a comprehensive resettlement package. This includes two hectares of land, a homestead plot, funds for house construction, and access to water, sanitation, electricity, and telecom facilities.