Forest rights and tribal politics in Odisha: A critical analysis of forest rights act (FRA) implementation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 was enacted to recognize the traditional rights of tribal communities and other forest dwellers over forest land and resources. Odisha, with its substantial tribal population and forest coverage, remains a key state for FRA implementation. However, the process has been marked by slow progress, bureaucratic hurdles, and resistance from forest authorities. This study critically analyzes the implementation of the FRA in Odisha, drawing on secondary data sources, including government reports, academic research, and NGO publications. The two main objectives of this study are: first, to analyze the current status and challenges of FRA implementation in the tribal regions of Odisha; and second, to examine the impact of forest rights on tribal political awareness and participation in local governance. Findings reveal that despite some success, a large number of individual and community claims remain unrecognized. The study emphasizes the importance of stronger political will, administrative reform, and the active involvement of tribal communities to ensure justice and protect their forest-based way of life.
Author: Dhananjay Nayak
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7162186663