Assessing the Socio-Economic Impacts of the Forest Rights Act on Tribal Communities in Odisha: An Empirical Study of the Juang Tribe

Abstract

Tribal communities in India have inhabited forests since ancient times, depending on forest resources for their livelihoods while also managing and protecting these ecosystems. However, several policy and institutional interventions have restricted many of their customary rights, leading to livelihood challenges and socio-economic stress. Although the Forest Rights Act, 2006 (FRA), was enacted to restore the forest land and resources rights of tribal and forest dwelling communities, ensuring livelihood securities and conservation of forests, its implementation has remained inconsistent across different regions. This study aims to assess the relationship between FRA implementation and the socio-economic conditions of the Juang tribe in Keonjhar district of Odisha, employing composite socio-economic and vegetation cover indices. A primary survey was conducted across five villages in the Banspal block, covering 150 tribal households. The findings indicate variations in both indices across villages, with relatively higher and lower values observed in different locations. These results suggest that the overall impact of the FRA in improving livelihood security and socio-economic conditions remains constrained due to gaps in its effective implementation. The prime constraints include limited access to land rights, restricted livelihood opportunities, lower educational attainment, and continued reliance on low-productivity activities. The findings highlight the need to strengthen FRA implementation to ensure equitable livelihood enhancement, sustainable forest management, and improved socio-economic outcomes for tribal communities.