NACM and JK Climate Action Group Urge Sajad Lone to Push Forest Rights Act Implementation

The National Alliance for Climate Mitigation (NACM) together with the Jammu‑Kashmir Climate Action Group has formally sought the intervention of senior politician Sajad Lone to accelerate the implementation of the Forest Rights Act in Jammu and Kashmir. The two bodies highlighted persistent gaps in granting forest‑dependent communities their legal entitlements under the Act, noting that delays have hampered livelihood security and forest conservation.

In a written appeal, the groups urged Lone to use his political influence to ensure that state authorities expedite the verification of claims and the issuance of forest‑rights certificates. They emphasized that timely enforcement is crucial for safeguarding the rights of indigenous and forest‑dwelling populations while also supporting broader climate‑action goals.

The request comes amid growing concerns from civil‑society organisations that the Forest Rights Act, a central legislation aimed at recognizing the rights of forest‑dependent peoples, has not been fully operationalised in the region. By involving Lone, the groups hope to bridge the gap between policy and practice and to bring immediate relief to affected communities.