More than 400 Ecologists Write to Authorities against Proposed Forest Conservation Act Amendments: Know Why

The environment minister of India Bhupendra Yadav has received complaints from more than 400 ecologists against the proposed amendments of the Forest Conservation Act. This amendment forms a part of the list of issues to be discussed for the monsoon session of the Indian parliament beginning today.

What are The Problems with The Forest Conservation Act Amendment?

1. Reorganization of Forest Areas

With the new Forest Conservation Act Amendment, the Indian Parliament seeks to classify the areas which will be considered as forest areas. However, ecologists have pointed out that this will violate the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court in the case of Tamil Nadu Godavarman v. Union of India where the court said that forests must be interpreted only by the dictionary meaning. Many actual forest areas will be lost by virtue of such reclassification.

2. Exemptions for Projects Relating to Border Security

The ecologists have recognised the need for ‘Fast-Track action’ to be taken regarding Border Security however they have pointed out that such urgency should not become a license for complete elimination of required guidelines for forest clearance across borders.

3. Exemption for Zoos, Safari Parks and Ecotourism Hubs

Zoological parks, Safari parks and Eco tourism centers will not be classified as forests according to the proposed amendment. This is problematic because often, eco tourism companies form large infrastructure in such places by clearing away forest areas.

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