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Odisha Forests Thrive: JICA Aids Tribal Livelihoods
11 Feb
Summary
- JICA supports Odisha's forests for local and tribal community livelihoods.
- Phase II of forestry project ending March 2027, seeks Phase III support.
- Projects protect over 1.25 lakh hectares of forest and 8,650 hectares privately.
The state of Odisha is deeply thankful for the Japan International Cooperation Agency's (JICA) crucial support in its forestry sector development. Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia highlighted JICA's vital role in safeguarding forests, the environment, and the livelihoods of local communities, especially tribal populations. The Odisha Forestry Sector Development Project (OFSDP) Phase I, which ran from 2006-07 to 2014-15, was a significant success. Phase II of this project has been ongoing since 2017-18 across 12 forest divisions and 2 wildlife divisions within the state. This current phase is scheduled to conclude in March 2027, prompting the state government to advocate for continued support through a potential Phase III. Such future projects are seen as essential for achieving the ambitious goals of 'Viksit Odisha 2036' and 'Viksit India 2047'.
The OFSDP emphasizes sustainable forest management through active community involvement and livelihood enhancement, aligning with joint forest management principles. Through this initiative, communities have successfully protected and managed over 1.257 lakh hectares of forestland, encompassing 1,210 Vana Surakshya Samitis and 10 Eco-Development Committees. Beyond protected forests, farm forestry plantations have been established on more than 8,650 hectares of private land, engaging over 18,000 farmers under OFSDP Phase II. Building on the success of Phase I, the state government launched the 'Ama Jangala Yojana' from 2016-17 to 2024-25, aiming to promote sustainable forest management across 22 forest divisions and involving 4.2 lakh households.
