Resettlement policy framework and specific resettlement action plan

13Public participation

Participation of affected leasehold farmers has been assured at the outset of the first stage of the Project. The first phase of the SA, conducted in 2007, aimed at the analysis of farmers’ views on potential temporary or permanent acquisition of part of their lands. During the second phase, discussions were conducted with farmers who will be affected by Project-related construction works. Extensive discussions were also held with representatives of all State agencies responsible for land acquisition activities. The following problems were discussed:

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  Acceptability of the decision on land by farmers, and the impact of such measure on farms;
  
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  Preferred compensation options; and
  
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  Compensation payment schemes.
  

During discussions, most farmers agreed that measures on land acquisition for construction of drainage facilities are necessary and inevitable. Discussion participants also showed understanding that in conditions of shortage of agricultural land in the region, provision of replacement land will be highly problematic. Therefore, payment of fair and economically justified cash compensations for damages incurred, including lost future income, is considered to be an acceptable measure. It should be noted that many farmers are ready to waive their right to legitimate compensation if measures to rehabilitate drainage are successful and lead to increased productivity and income.

Nevertheless, under WB OP 4.12, any persons who suffer any adverse financial effect during the Project, regardless of their status and legality of their affected crops, shall be entitled to compensation and assistance from the Project, provided that (a) their income decreases owing to Project activities (cutting trees), and (2) they provide proof that these trees belong to them.

Participation of the public in confirming the rights for crops and trees within reserve areas will be very important because the only way for people to prove ownership for the crops/trees is by referring to their neighbors/makhalla committees.

Forms and amounts of individual compensation will be agreed upon with affected farmers to be resettled at the stage of selection of construction sites. Legislative procedures require participation of all land users or their representatives in decision making on selection of lands to be exempted, on land acquisition, during land marking plan preparation, etc., and on the amounts of damages and losses. Farmers will have a sit in the evaluation commission, and certificate of agreement for land acquisition may not be signed without their consent.