• UGI USER
  • May 25, 2024
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MINISTRY QUESTIONS ASSAM OFFICER ON FOREST LAW VIOLATIONS, SEEKS EXPLANATION

Why in the news?

  • The Environment Ministry issued a notice to Assam’s Special Additional Chief Secretary, N. Yadav, regarding forest law violations.
  • The notice questioned why a complaint shouldn’t be filed against N.Yadav for constructing a commando camp in Hailakandi district without proper permissions.
  • The ministry’s inspection found that the camp lacked necessary permissions under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
source:legalinitiativeforest

Key Points:Forest Conservation Act, 1980 (FCA, 1980):

  • FCA 1980 ensures forest conservation and resource protection.
  • Enacted to curb deforestation, effective October 25, 1980.
  • Aims: Protect forest ecosystems, halt biodiversity loss, prevent land conversion for non-forest uses.
  • Restriction on Dereservation: Requires central government permission for non-forest use of forest land.
  • Appeal: Aggrieved persons can appeal to the National Green Tribunal.
  • Advisory Committee: Central Government can form a committee for forest conservation advice.
  • Penalties: Levies penalties for violations.
  • Rule-Making Power: Central Government can make rules to implement the Act.
About Forest Conservation Amendment Bill 2023:

Key Provisions

  • Broadens Act’s scope with a new Preamble and renamed to Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980.
  • Extends applicability to recorded forest lands, private forests, plantations.
  • Proposes exemptions for afforestation, habitation connectivity, security infrastructure (up to 10 ha), and public utility projects in extremism-affected areas.
  • Exempts strategic national security projects within 100 km of borders and control lines.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/calm-assessment/

https://universalinstitutions.com/sc-affirms-forests-as-national-asset-vital-for-financial-wealth/#:~:text=Recent%20Amendment%20(Forest%20Conservation%20Amendment,of%20land%20from%20its%20provisions.