The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs has reported that approximately 25 lakh titles have been distributed under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, recognising the rights of tribal communities and other traditional forest dwellers over forest land and resources. The figures were discussed during the ministry’s second regional review conference on the implementation of the Act, held in Kolkata on October 9. The conference brought together officials from eight states to assess progress, review pending claims and identify measures to improve the delivery of forest rights to eligible communities.

According to the ministry, more than 54 lakh claims had been received nationally as of August 31, 2026, with around 25 lakh titles distributed. Approximately 11 lakh claims remained pending at different stages, while more than 18 lakh claims had been rejected. Officials highlighted the need for states to address delays, review rejected applications in accordance with the law and improve coordination among departments responsible for implementing the legislation.

The conference was attended by representatives from West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Andhra Pradesh officials were also invited to share their experience in digitising forest rights records, incorporating recognised titles into government databases and connecting beneficiaries with livelihood schemes and credit facilities. The discussions focused on improving implementation, strengthening administrative coordination and ensuring that recognised rights translate into tangible benefits for forest-dependent communities.

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Officials also stressed the importance of recognising Community Forest Resource Rights, which enable eligible communities to protect, manage and conserve forest resources traditionally used by them. The ministry emphasised that Gram Sabhas must receive adequate support to prepare and implement community forest management plans. Greater attention was also called for in recognising habitat rights for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), with officials urging states to develop community-specific plans in consultation with traditional institutions and village assemblies.

The ministry called on states to prepare time-bound action plans to clear pending claims, review rejected applications and improve the integration of forest rights records into revenue and forest department databases. Digitisation, accurate mapping and coordination with housing, livelihood and development programmes were identified as key priorities. The review conference concluded with an emphasis on strengthening implementation at the district level and ensuring that eligible forest-dwelling communities can exercise their recognised rights and access the support available to them.

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