Jakarta (ANTARA) - The provision of conservation and rehabilitation funds is expected to strengthen village sovereignty in managing natural resources, the Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration (PDTT) stated on Tuesday.
"Previously, villages could not develop conservation and forest areas because they were not considered part of village territories. However, with the revised Village Law, certain areas are now designated for development using conservation funds," said Ivanovich Agusta, head of the ministry's Development and Information Agency.
Speaking at a coastal community conference on maritime affairs, Agusta explained that the government has regulated the provision of conservation and rehabilitation funds under the revised law.
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"The new article in the law allows villages to develop conservation and forest areas," he noted.
The article stipulates that villages located in nature reserves, conservation areas, resource production forests, and plantation production areas are eligible to receive conservation or rehabilitation funds.
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These funds aim to strengthen villages and improve the prosperity of rural communities. Agusta also emphasized that the provision of these funds is a form of recognition for villages, as outlined in the law.
This recognition acknowledges the origins of the village, which is a key principle in enhancing village autonomy. It also grants villages greater authority and responsibility in managing their own affairs. Further details regarding the distribution of conservation funds will be outlined in a government regulation.
Conservation funds empower villagesn in resource management: ministry
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