| Syllabus: GS-III, Subject: Environment, Ecology and Disaster Management, Topic: Forest Conservation, Issue: Forest rights |
Context: Ministry of Environment released reports identifying forest areas in compliance with SC order.
Synopsis:
- Forest Conservation Act (FCA): 2023 amendment questioned for excluding “deemed” forests from clearance requirement.
- Expert Committees: Established to identify “deemed” forests based on dictionary definition, irrespective of notification or ownership.
- Reports from 22 states lack detailed boundaries and specific locations, raising concerns about accuracy and completeness.
- Government’s statements to parliamentary committee contradict report details, leading to scrutiny.
- Inadequate information on deemed forests undermines conservation efforts and raises doubts about government’s commitment.
