At the India Today Environment Conclave 2025, Karnataka’s Additional Chief Secretary, Forest Ecology and Environment department, Anjum Parvez, spoke about the state’s efforts to balance conservation with the rights of tribal communities living in forest areas. He highlighted the need to differentiate between the overall tribal population of Karnataka and those residing within core forest regions, stating that without this distinction, discussions on the issue could become confusing.
Parvez revealed that more than three lakh people live in Karnataka’s forests, primarily in the southern and coastal regions. He acknowledged that the presence of settlements in protected areas is not a new issue but one that has been extensively debated for years. “Fortunately, in 2006-07, we came up with a firm policy which was accepted by every person in the country, including the judiciary. The Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy of tribal people living inside forest areas, along with the Forest Rights Act, have played an important role in addressing concerns from both perspectives – those of the forest department and the people living there,” he said.
VOLUNTARY RESETTLEMENT WITH INCENTIVES
He asserted that Karnataka’s government remains positive about the issue and has undertaken significant efforts. “In Karnataka, there are around 1,800 tribal hamlets inside forest areas. The policies in place make it clear that resettlement is voluntary. We are not forcing anyone to leave the forest. Instead, we offer incentives so that more people voluntarily relocate while ensuring they are not taken far from their traditional environment,” he explained.
The state government offers two rehabilitation options: families can either accept Rs 15 lakh per adult member in exchange for surrendering their land to the forest department or receive three acres of cultivable land near the forest. Parvez stressed that employment opportunities for forest dwellers remain a key concern. “We have never treated people living in forests as an alien population or an enemy. We always see them as equal citizens and aim for a harmonious relationship. Sustainability is the key,” he said.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRIBAL COMMUNITIES
To integrate forest communities into economic activities, Karnataka has taken steps to employ them in conservation efforts. “We hire them as workers in developmental projects within forests. We have gone a step further – 50 per cent of forest watcher positions are reserved for them. They understand the land, animals, and activities better, making them ideal for such roles,” he noted. Additionally, skill development initiatives, including driving and vocational training, are provided for those on the periphery of forests, with various departments such as Tribal Development, Skill Development, and the Zila Panchayat contributing to these efforts.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN TRIBAL AREAS
The state government is also focusing on improving infrastructure. Parvez announced that the upcoming Karnataka cabinet meeting would be held in the Male Mahadeshwara Hills (MM Hills), in Chamarajanagar district of southern Karnataka, a region with a significant tribal population. “We want to show them that we stand with them. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself takes meetings on this issue, ensuring that tribal communities are included in democratic processes and have access to electricity and water,” he said.
Winning the trust of tribal communities is crucial, Parvez emphasised. “First, we have to win their hearts. We must interact with them more. Karnataka has various forums to discuss these issues. Smaller conflicts between tribes and the forest department are bound to happen, but we are willing to resolve them. That is what sets our state apart,” he asserted.
PRESERVING TRIBAL HERITAGE AND CULTURE
The government is also committed to preserving tribal heritage and culture. “We do not want to lose the traditional knowledge and skills of tribal communities, which are an integral part of Indian culture. Rehabilitation is a gradual, voluntary process – we are not forcibly relocating anyone,” he said. At the same time, the government is ensuring access to healthcare and education. “Instead of setting up hospitals inside remote settlements, we are working on better accessibility. One of our top priorities is connecting every tribal habitation with an all-weather road,” he added.
ROLE OF NGOS IN SUPPORTING TRIBAL WELFARE
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play a vital role in this effort. “Many NGOs and individuals have stepped forward to establish healthcare and educational facilities on the periphery and inside forests. We have a very cordial relationship with them because the government alone cannot address all challenges. NGOs act as a bridge between the government and tribal communities, who often view the state with suspicion,” he explained, citing the work of Dr Sudarshan in tribal areas as an example.
COMMUNITY RIGHTS AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
Parvez also highlighted the importance of granting community rights over forest resources. “Community rights for fishing and honey collection are crucial. We have introduced multi-activity societies where tribals collect non-timber forest produce and auction it themselves. You would be surprised to know that in Chamarajanagar, three such societies generated Rs 1 crore in business in a year. This is a classic example of how integrating tribal communities into forest economies can yield significant results,” he said.
The Karnataka government’s approach, he reiterated, is to ensure that development does not come at the cost of displacement, while also working towards the long-term sustainability of forest ecosystems.