Farmers Protest in Mysuru Over Land’s Reserve Forest Notification

Quick Summary

• Farmers from the Karnataka Prantha Raitha Sangha (KPRS) protested in mysuru against the notification of 5,306 acres of land as reserve forest.
• The land includes 627 acres in Haranahalli and 4,679.08 acres in Channakal Kaval, Periyapatana taluk, notified as reserve forest in May this year.
• Protesters stated that farmers have cultivated crops on these lands for generations and are now facing uncertainty over their livelihoods due to the notification.
• Each farmer reportedly tills only small plots of land (2-3 acres), with no option sources of income.
• KPRS alleged that the government plans to evict farmers and repurpose the land for resort advancement or private home stays.
• They demanded withdrawal of the notification and issuance of title deeds to farmers using these lands while also threatening further agitation if eviction proceeds.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The protest highlights a significant conflict between conservation efforts and agricultural livelihoods within Karnataka’s rural communities. On one side is the legal designation aimed at protecting environmentally sensitive areas by expanding reserve forests; on the other is a historical reliance by local farmers who cultivate inherited plots for sustenance with little else to fall back on economically. Balancing issues like ecological preservation with human rights-including title deeds-is challenging but essential.

If true, allegations regarding resort or homestay development would raise concerns over clarity in public policy decision-making processes tied to natural resources management. Ensuring fair dialog between affected parties-especially vulnerable populations like small-scale farmers-and authorities may prevent escalation while promoting equitable solutions aligned with long-term sustainability goals for both agriculture and environmental protection.

read more: The Hindu