India, Dec. 23 -- In the forest villages of Odisha's Kalahandi district, tribal communities are asserting rights long guaranteed by law but denied in practice.

Under the Forest Rights Act, Gram Sabhas are reclaiming ownership over bamboo, kendu leaves and other minor forest produce.

Years of confrontation with the forest department have given way to community-led forest governance, transparent trade and local employment.

From Jamguda and Palki to Golamunda and Kelia, collective action has transformed forests into sources of dignity, income and stability.

Those living in the forest villages of Odisha's Kalahandi district - mostly tribal communities - are increasingly coming together to assert their rights over forests: rights granted b...