Forest Clearance for Non-Foresting Activities in Wildlife Sanctuaries | 10 Aug 2024

Source: TH

The MoEFCC told the NGT that the Assam government did not obtain necessary forest clearance for non-forestry activities in the Sonai-Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary. The Ministry highlighted that such activities require approval from central govt, which was not sought.

Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Assam, India, is known for its diverse flora and fauna, includingthe endangered one-horned rhinoceros. It serves as a critical habitat for various wildlife species and ispart of the larger Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape.
The Ministry advised the NGT to pass suitable orders on encroachment issues, noting that stategovernments can address unauthorised construction or illegal settlements.
- NGT is a specialised body set up under the National Green Tribunal Act (2010) for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources.
The Ministry’s counter-affidavit, highlighted that non-forestry activities on forest land need central approval under Section 2(1)(ii) of the Forest Conservation Act 1980. No such proposal was received.
- The Forest Conservation Act of 1980 regulates the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes in India, requiring prior approval from the central government.
- It aims to preserve and protect forest land by controlling deforestation and promoting sustainable forest management.