Javed Rana announces Sangerwani to be developed as model tribal tourism village
PULWAMA, Aug 25: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, said on Tuesday that Sangerwani in Pulwama would be developed as a model tribal tourism village, with efforts to showcase its natural beauty, tribal heritage and traditional way of life.
Rana was addressing a tribal convention on the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, at Sangerwani in Rajpora, where he also interacted with residents and heard their grievances. He said effective implementation of the Act is essential for empowering the forest-dwelling tribal communities, safeguarding their legitimate rights and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The convention was attended by MLA Rajpora Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Mir, MLA Pampore Hasnain Masoodi, former legislator Mohammad Khalil Bandh and officers from the district administration. It focused on creating greater awareness about the provisions of the FRA and strengthening community participation in its effective implementation. Detailed discussions were held on the rights and entitlements under the legislation, the process for filing and verification of claims and the role of Gram Sabhas and other stakeholders.
A large number of people from various areas attended the convention and raised sector-specific and development demands. They highlighted issues concerning augmentation and upgradation of water filtration plants to ensure safe and reliable drinking water, strengthening of healthcare and educational infrastructure, and improvement and upgradation of road infrastructure, particularly repair of damaged stretches.
Responding to water concerns, Rana directed authorities to revamp 14 water filtration plants in Rajpora constituency and announced Rs 2.75 crore for the work. He also directed the Soil Conservation Department to prepare a Detailed Project Report worth around Rs 1 crore for soil conservation and related development works in Sangerwani.
Rana said Sangerwani would be developed as a forest village under the FRA, and efforts would be made to bring it onto the tourism map as a model tribal destination. He stressed that recognition of forest rights should be complemented by government schemes for livelihood generation, infrastructure, skill development and access to basic services. He called for regular awareness programmes and community consultations, saying, "Awareness is the first step towards empowerment."