Did Assam CM Hand Over Land Titles to 4,673 Tribal Families?
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Synopsis
In a significant event in Assam, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma distributed land titles to thousands of tribal families, empowering them under the Forest Rights Act. This initiative is a crucial step towards recognizing and securing the land rights of indigenous communities in the region.
Key Takeaways
- 4,673 tribal families received land titles under the Forest Rights Act.
- The initiative empowers various indigenous communities in Assam.
- Land pattas have increased to 50 bighas under Mission Basundhara.
- Efforts to reclaim encroached forest land are ongoing.
- The government emphasizes the importance of forest protection.
Guwahati, Nov 11 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Tuesday presented land title certificates to 4,673 indigenous tribal families under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, during a ceremonial event in Chhaygaon, Kamrup district, as part of the ongoing Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada celebrations.
The beneficiaries, who belong to the Garo, Rabha, Bodo, and Karbi communities, inhabit forest regions such as Lakhra, Bondapara, Kulshi, Loharghat, Bamunigaon, Boko, and Singra.
While addressing the attendees, CM Sarma emphasized that this initiative is designed to empower Assam’s tribal communities and affirm their rightful ownership of land they have inhabited for generations. Referring to the Forest Rights Act passed in 2005, the Chief Minister noted that his administration has been working since 2021 to provide land pattas to all eligible tribal families residing in forest areas.
“Numerous families across Sonitpur, Nagaon, Karbi Anglong, and the Bodoland Territorial Region have already benefited. Nearly 5,000 more families in Sonitpur and Biswanath will soon receive their pattas,” he stated. Sarma further announced that tribal families will now qualify for land pattas of up to 50 bighas under Mission Basundhara, an increase from the previous limit of seven bighas.
He mentioned that the state has transformed land in around 600 villages from non-cadastral to cadastral status, allowing many more families to claim ownership. Highlighting the importance of forest conservation, the Chief Minister revealed that over 1.45 lakh bighas of encroached forest land have been reclaimed, and eviction drives will continue in districts such as Goalpara and Kamrup.
He urged the public to remain vigilant against future encroachments. Paying tribute to tribal icons, including Bhagawan Birsa Munda, Sarma encouraged the tribal community to draw strength from Munda’s ideals to confront modern challenges while preserving their traditions, customs, and languages.
Ministers Ranoj Pegu, Piyush Hazarika, Ashok Singhal, MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi, various MLAs, and senior officials, including Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council Chief Executive Member Tankeswar Rabha, were present at the event.
Point of View
The distribution of land titles in Assam represents a vital step toward addressing historical grievances of tribal communities. This initiative not only affirms their land rights but also highlights the government's commitment to empower indigenous populations. The ongoing efforts to protect forest areas and prevent encroachments further underscore the importance of sustainable development in the region.
NationPress
12/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the land title distribution?
The distribution aims to empower indigenous tribal families by affirming their land ownership under the Forest Rights Act, thus securing their rights to the land they have inhabited for generations.
Which communities are benefiting from this initiative?
The initiative benefits the Garo, Rabha, Bodo, and Karbi communities living in various forest areas within Assam.
How many families received land titles?
A total of 4,673 indigenous tribal families received their land title certificates during the event.
What changes were made to the land pattas under Mission Basundhara?
Tribal families are now eligible for land pattas of up to 50 bighas, an increase from the previous limit of seven bighas.
What measures are being taken to protect forest land?
The state government has reclaimed over 1.45 lakh bighas of encroached forest land and will continue eviction drives to prevent further encroachments.
