Goa, June 14 -- A special drive was conducted in Ponda to expedite the resolution of pending forest rights claims, bringing relief to several long-waiting applicants. The session was held under the supervision of Deputy Collector Shubham Naik and BDO Ashwin Dessai, who were present to oversee the proceedings.

The drive witnessed participation from claimants across villages like Usgao and Borim, many of whom have been awaiting decisions on their claims for years. Officials interacted directly with the applicants to review documentation and streamline the process, aiming for quicker adjudication.

Authorities emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that forest dwellers and traditional landholders receive their due rights without...