Explain National Resettlement and Rehabilitation Policy, 2003.

The National Resettlement and Rehabilitation Policy, 2003, was formulated by the Government of India to address the challenges faced by people displaced due to development projects, such as infrastructure, mining, and industrialization. The policy aimed to ensure that displaced populations are adequately compensated, rehabilitated, and provided with opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

Key features of the policy included:

1. Entitlements: Affected families were entitled to compensation for land, assets, and livelihoods lost due to displacement, along with assistance for resettlement and rehabilitation.

2. Participatory Process: The policy emphasized a participatory approach to decision-making, involving affected communities in planning, implementation, and monitoring of resettlement and rehabilitation measures.

3. Rehabilitation Assistance: Displaced families were provided with housing, land, and financial support to rebuild their lives in resettlement colonies or alternative locations.

4. Livelihood Restoration: Efforts were made to restore or improve the livelihoods of displaced populations through skill development, employment generation, and access to basic services and infrastructure.

5. Social Security: Special provisions were made for vulnerable groups, including women, children, elderly, and indigenous communities, to ensure their social security and well-being during the resettlement and rehabilitation process.

Overall, the National Resettlement and Rehabilitation Policy, 2003, aimed to mitigate the adverse impacts of displacement, promote social justice, and facilitate the sustainable development of affected communities.