BI News, Ranchi: In a significant move, Chief Minister Hemant Soren inaugurated the “Abua Bir Abua Disom Campaign” aimed at distributing forest land rights to tribal and indigenous communities residing in the state’s forest areas. Addressing the gathering at the launch event held at the state secretariat, Chief Minister Hemant Soren emphasized the unique cultural identity of Jharkhand and the importance of preserving the state’s forests.
Jharkhand, with approximately 30% forest cover, plays a vital role in the livelihoods of around 80% of its population engaged in agriculture and forestry-related activities. Chief Minister Soren stressed the need for a paradigm shift in the approach towards forest land rights. He highlighted the challenges faced by the state, where encroachments and resource depletion threaten the traditional way of life of indigenous communities.
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The “Abua Bir Abua Disom Campaign” aims to rectify this situation by focusing on fair and secure distribution of forest rights. Chief Minister Soren urged government officials to lead by example, encouraging them to implement changes in their work styles that would serve as inspiration for the people. He emphasized the need for afforestation efforts and warned against the exploitation of forest resources by illegal entities.
The launch event was attended by top officials, including Chief Secretary Sukhdev Singh, Principal Secretary Vandana Dadhel, and several district collectors and forest officials. The campaign’s success is crucial for ensuring the sustainable coexistence of communities and forests in Jharkhand.
The state government plans to review the progress of the campaign periodically, underscoring its commitment to creating a positive impact on the lives of the tribal and indigenous population. Through the “Abua Bir Abua Disom Campaign,” Jharkhand aims to set an example for other states in India, demonstrating the significance of preserving indigenous rights and environmental resources.
