At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006?

Correct Option (D)

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the nodal agency at the national level responsible for the effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA). Its mandate includes:

• Guiding the implementation of the Act across states.
• Issuing clarifications and guidelines pertaining to the Act.
• Coordinating with state governments and other stakeholders.
• Monitoring the recognition and vesting of forest rights for eligible communities.

Incorrect Options

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change: This Ministry is primarily responsible for environmental protection, forest conservation, and climate change policies. While it deals with forest governance, it is not the nodal agency for the recognition of forest rights under the FRA.

Ministry of Panchayati Raj: This Ministry focuses on strengthening local self-governance institutions (Panchayati Raj Institutions) in rural areas. Its mandate does not directly involve the implementation or oversight of the FRA.

Ministry of Rural Development: This Ministry deals with various rural development programs, including poverty alleviation, employment generation, and infrastructure development in rural areas. It is not the nodal agency for the recognition and vesting of forest rights.