Integrated Community Development Project - ICDP

The Chittagong Hill Tract area (CHT) covers 13,390 square kilometers; most is highland and only 3% is plain land. The CHT is divided into three Districts- Rangamati, Bandarban and Khagrachari, and these Districts are further divided into 25 Upazilas. The population is about 1.4 million, of which more than 90% are rural, living in small villages- Paras. Most people live on agriculture; few on small trade and services. The average income is only Taka 25,000 per year (US Dollars 367).

The paras consist of 20 to 100 families. They are often situated on hilltops in remote areas that are difficult or time-consuming to access. It is estimated that there are 4,599 Paras in CHT. (the majority of the population from Chakmas, Marmas and Tripuras)

Salient Features of CHTs.

Bio-genetic diversity.
Inaccessibility.
Isolation
Serene Ambience
Arable land scarcity
Hilly terrain
Fragile ecosystem
Persistent Poverty Vulnerable and marginalized population.

The CHT area was declared as a district in 1860. Considering its difference from that of plain districts in respect of landownership, culture etc. a separate law, named CHTs Regulation, 1900, was promulgated and exercised throughout the century. After independence, Local government institutions like Zilla Parishads were established in 3 hill districts in 1989 and many of the govt. functions were transferred to these local autonomous bodies.

After ammendment of the Hill Districts Local Government Council Act of 1989 the powers were given to the Hill Districts Councils. A Regional Council was formed to Co-ordinate the functions of three Hill District Councils in order that the local government institutions became more powerful and effective. A ministry on Chittagong Hill Tracts affairs was established and an Advisory Council was envisaged to assist this ministry.