Context:
An expert panel constituted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has proposed guidelines for diversion of forest land inside wildlife sanctuaries for religious structures, following controversies over land diversion proposals.
Key Highlights:
Background of the Issue
• The issue emerged from a proposal involving 0.35 hectares of forest land in Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat.
• The proposal was initially cleared by the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SCNBWL) in July 2024.
• It was revoked in October 2024 due to concerns that it could set a precedent for encroachments in protected areas.
Expert Panel Formation
• The Environment Minister directed formulation of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
• An expert committee was constituted to prepare guidelines.
Guidelines Proposed
• Construction after 1980 on forest land will be treated as encroachment.
• Exceptions may be considered case-by-case based on historical claims.
• The guidelines aim to address religious sites such as temples, sacred caves, and pilgrimage points inside forests.
Status of Guidelines
• The proposed norms are currently under deliberation by State Governments.
Concerns Raised
• Many sanctuaries in India still have unsettled rights and claims related to land ownership.
• Experts warn that unchecked approvals could weaken conservation efforts and increase encroachment pressures.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Wildlife Sanctuary
- Protected area declared under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- Focuses on protection of wildlife and habitats.
- Human activities are regulated but not completely prohibited.
- National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)
- Apex body for wildlife conservation in India.
- Chaired by the Prime Minister.
- The Standing Committee (SCNBWL) reviews proposals for activities in protected areas.
- Forest Conservation Act, 1980
- Regulates diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes.
- Requires central government approval.
- Encroachment
- Illegal occupation or use of forest or public land without legal authorization.
Relevant Mains Points:
Challenges in Managing Religious Sites in Protected Areas
• Many sanctuaries contain historical temples and pilgrimage routes.
• Religious tourism can lead to:
- Habitat disturbance
- Waste generation
- Increased human-wildlife interaction
Conservation Concerns
• Infrastructure development inside sanctuaries may fragment habitats.
• Could create precedents for further land diversion requests.
Governance and Policy Balance
• Need to balance religious rights and cultural heritage with ecological conservation.
• Transparent decision-making and scientific environmental assessments are necessary.
Way Forward
• Strictly regulate new constructions in protected areas.
• Encourage eco-sensitive infrastructure and controlled pilgrim access.
• Ensure settlement of forest rights and land claims before approvals.
• Strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms in protected areas.
UPSC Relevance:
• GS Paper III – Environment and Biodiversity Conservation
• GS Paper II – Governance (Environmental regulation and policy)
• Prelims – Wildlife Protection Act, NBWL, Wildlife Sanctuaries