Member, Charu WaliKhanna was Chief Guest at Conference “National Level Consultation on FRA, MFP, Women, Livelihood and Community Rights. The programme was organised by Torang Trust in collaboration with National Commission for at Social Development Centre, Ranchi on 09.05.12. 

Smt. Krishna Tirath, Minister, Women and Child Development (IC) Govt. of India was to be the Chief Guest; but due urgent Parliamentary work expressed regret and sent her message. The message was circulated amongst the participants and read out and received a thundering applause. 

The programme began with the welcome song “Dhuria”, the meaning of which was explained by Ms. Sushma, one of the performers, and its relationship to Water and Nature. 

Welcome speeches were made by Vasavi Kiro, Mamta Kujur, Anima Baa and Suryamnai Bhagat. 

The Key Note address was given by Mr. Bhupinder Singh, Senior I.A.S. (Rtd.) Guest of Honour was Ms. Bimla Pradhan, Minister, Govt. of Jharkhand. She said that the Tribal Community played an important role in the development of the State. She also expressed concern on the fact that girls have been trafficked from Jharkhand which has become a source destination. 

Special Guest Dr. (Mrs.) Charu WaliKhanna addressing the audience said that Jharkhand has a rich forest wealth, which is not only a great heritage for the country but also for the entire race. Credit for preserving the forest goes to those who live in and around the forest areas; particularly the Adivasis. Adivasi communities are the original and natural owners of the forest; however, they have been marginalised and unable to economically benefit from it. She also emphasised that women play very important role in the Adivasi community, particularly in economic activities. Hence when we analyze the implementation of various legislations it is important to do it from a women’s perspective. Dr. Charu WaliKhanna said that in order to address the historic injustice to Tribal communities numerous Acts have been passed like the Forest Right Act, 2006, SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and others; but due to lack of proper implementation Adivasi continue to suffer, specially women. 

Other speakers included Indu Netam, Adivasi Samta Manch, Chhattisgarh, Achyut das Prabhakar Tirki Adarsh Gram Vikas Samiti, Neelam Chatruvedi, NAWO and Skahi Kendra, (UP) Gautam Bandopadhayay Nadi Ghati Morcha, Chattisgarh, Mamta Kujur, Adivasi Mahila Mahasabha, Jashpur, Chattisgarh, Purabi Paul, Sharmjiwi Mahila Samiti, Kumar Chandra Mardi/Jharkhand.

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