FDA investment hardly helps forest development

The Pioneer, June 16, 2009
PNS | Bhubaneswar

Wide irregularities, fund misappropriation, less opportunity for community participation and inappropriate VSS (Vana Sanrakshana Samiti) formations have put the role of Orissa Forest Development Agency (FDA) into deep suspicion in Kalahandi district.

False suits are instituted by authorities against folks of local village community who asked for transparency in fund utilisation. Orissa Jungle Mancha (OJM) called for a due evaluation and impartial investigation into the matter at Red Cross Bhawan in Bhubaneswar recently.

An investigation team from OJM visited Kalahandi and came up with startling facts. The discussions with Forest Division, police, villagers and Forest Protection Committee revealed vast irregularities in forming VSS across the district. In many places community was not involved in the preparation of micro plans. Locals told sources that they do not possess copies of MoU, resolution of the meeting, registration documents, account register, bank pass book etc. The team came to know that teak is planted in private lands for future timber harvesting. Keeping the timber production in view, 73 per cent of the total allocation has been spent on plantation. Only 27 per cent is spent on soil conservation, entry level activities, awareness programmes etc. It must be noted that while through such provisions the department will get revenue from timber harvesting, villagers will be the least benefited.

The fact finding team in consultation with the community and the department came to the conclusion that a social audit should be done regarding the financial misappropriation and false cases should be withdrawn immediately.

Orissa Jungle Manch is an apex people’s organisation working for the strengthening of the people’s movement for protection and management of community forestry activities in Orissa since 1999. At present 22 districts are involved in this process. It takes initiatives for forest growth, biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection and community’s rights over the forest use.