. 27/09/2024 5:39 PM
In a significant development for the Mankidia community in Odisha, habitat rights have been officially recognized, marking them as the sixth Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) to receive this vital acknowledgment under the Forest Rights Act of 2006. This legal recognition not only affirms the Mankidia's connection to their ancestral lands but also empowers them to access and manage the forest areas that have traditionally sustained their way of life.
The Mankidia are a semi-nomadic tribe primarily residing in the forests of Odisha. Known for their exceptional rope-making skills, they possess rich cultural traditions that include trapping and consuming monkeys. Historically, the Mankidia have relied heavily on forest resources for their livelihood, engaging in activities like hunting and gathering. The recent grant of habitat rights enables them to continue these practices without the restrictions that previously hampered their access to vital resources.
The habitat rights conferred under Section 2(h) of the Forest Rights Act encompass not only the Mankidia's traditional habitat but also portions of reserved and protected forests. This recognition alleviates prior limitations, allowing the community to participate freely in traditional activities such as gathering food, crafting materials, and engaging in cultural practices. The ability to manage their ancestral lands is essential for the Mankidia, ensuring that they can maintain their lifestyle and preserve their heritage.
Enacted in 2006, the Forest Rights Act aims to rectify historical injustices faced by tribal communities in India. It provides a framework for recognizing the rights of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers to their ancestral lands. By doing so, the Act not only supports the sustenance of tribal lifestyles but also fosters the preservation of cultural identities that are intricately linked to the forest ecosystem.
The Mankidia community's recognition is part of a broader trend in Odisha, which has emerged as a leader in implementing habitat rights for tribal groups in India. They are the second PVTG in the state to receive such recognition in 2024, following the Paudi Bhuyan community. This advancement is part of a series of approvals for other PVTGs in Odisha, including the Juang, Saora, Chuktia Bhunjia, and Hill Khadia communities. This proactive approach highlights the state's commitment to supporting its vulnerable populations.
While the Mankidia and other communities in Odisha have successfully secured their habitat rights, claims from additional PVTGs within the state are still under review. In contrast, many other states in India have been slower to grant similar rights, underscoring Odisha’s progressive stance in safeguarding the interests of its tribal communities.
The Mankidia community is characterized by its unique lifestyle and deep connection to the forest. Speaking a dialect of the Kui language, they face numerous challenges, including deforestation and encroachments on their lands. Their traditional diet relies heavily on forest products, making access to these resources critical for their survival. With their population dwindling, there is an urgent need for sustainable development initiatives that not only protect their environment but also preserve their rich cultural heritage.
The granting of habitat rights to the Mankidia community represents a crucial step forward in recognizing and protecting the rights of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups in India. This milestone not only empowers the Mankidia to maintain their traditional practices but also serves as a beacon of hope for other tribal communities seeking similar recognition. As Odisha leads the way in implementing habitat rights, the commitment to safeguarding the cultural and environmental integrity of these communities becomes ever more essential.
