In a significant move for community-led conservation, the Gram Sabha of Kralpathri, a village near Doodpathri valley in Budgam, has declared 200 square kilometers of the Pir Panjal forest as community-managed land. This decision, under the Forest Rights Act-2006 (FRA), gives local residents the authority to manage and protect their forest, promoting sustainable resource use and conservation.
The Grahm Sabha has taken responsibility for managing this large forest area. In their resolution, they have banned large-scale plantations and fencing in the grasslands and alpine pastures to protect the ecosystem. By keeping the land open and accessible, they aim to safeguard the biodiversity of the region, which is home to various species and sensitive habitats.
The forest conservation efforts will cover three panchayats—Kralpathri-Budgam, Yari-Khah, and Soznipora. These communities will collaborate on initiatives related to environmental protection and the promotion of eco-friendly tourism. The goal is to create a model where nature conservation supports local economic opportunities, including eco-tourism and other nature-based activities.
The Forest Rights Coalition of Jammu & Kashmir (FRC-J&K) supported the event. Environmentalist Dr. Shaikh Ghulam Rasool, a longtime advocate for forest communities, led the effort, with FRC-J&K Convenor Zahid Parwaz Chowdhary guiding the community through the process.
It is 4th Graam Saba on CFR in Budgam after Jabbad-Brenwar, Mujpathri and Sethaharan panchayats, Forest Rights coalition feciletated process.
The declaration at Kralpathri sets an example for other communities in Jammu & Kashmir to exercise their rights under the FRA and pursue balanced, sustainable development. Through local leadership, communities are demonstrating how natural resources can be managed to benefit both the environment and their own well-being.
