Context:
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The Supreme Court of India directed the Jharkhand government to declare 31,468.25 hectares (≈314 sq. km) of the Saranda forest as a Wildlife Sanctuary.
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The ruling seeks to balance ecological conservation with economic activity, particularly iron ore mining, in one of India’s most ecologically sensitive forest regions.
Key Highlights:
Extent of Protected Area
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Supreme Court-mandated sanctuary area: 31,468.25 hectares.
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Jharkhand government’s initial proposal: 24,941.64 hectares.
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Court expanded coverage to ensure ecological integrity and habitat continuity.
Ecological Significance of Saranda
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Recognised as one of the world’s most pristine sal (Shorea robusta) forests.
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Habitat for endangered and rare species:
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Sal forest tortoise
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Four-horned antelope (Chousingha)
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Wild elephants
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Acts as a vital biodiversity corridor in eastern India.
Human & Cultural Dimensions
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Forest-dwelling Adivasi communities:
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Ho
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Munda
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Uraon
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Livelihoods, culture, and identity are closely linked to forest ecosystems.
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The Court clarified that:
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Individual and community forest rights under existing laws will not be adversely affected.
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Mining vs Conservation Balance
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Saranda holds nearly 26% of India’s iron ore reserves.
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Supplies are critical for steel producers like:
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Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)
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Tata Steel
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The Court:
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Did not impose a blanket ban on mining.
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Emphasised sustainable mining practices compatible with ecological protection.
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Governance & Constitutional Emphasis
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The judgment reiterates:
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State’s constitutional duty to protect forests and wildlife.
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Obligation to notify ecologically significant areas as protected zones.
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Reinforces environmental rule of law and precautionary principle.
Geographical Importance
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Located in West Singhbhum district, Jharkhand.
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Part of the Chotanagpur Plateau, rich in minerals and dense tropical forests.
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Illustrates the resource–ecology conflict common in central and eastern India.
Key Concepts Involved:
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Wildlife Sanctuary: Protected area for conservation of fauna and habitats with regulated human activity.
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Biodiversity: Variety of life forms within an ecosystem.
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Sustainable Mining: Resource extraction that minimises ecological damage and ensures long-term viability.
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Forest Rights: Legal recognition of traditional rights of forest-dwelling communities.
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
GS 3 – Environment & Ecology
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Forest conservation and biodiversity protection
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Protected area governance
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Mining–environment trade-offs
GS 2 – Governance
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Role of judiciary in environmental protection
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State obligations under environmental laws
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Balancing development with sustainability
GS 1 – Indian Geography
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Saranda forest and Chotanagpur Plateau
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Distribution of mineral resources and forests
Prelims Focus:
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Saranda forest location and significance
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Difference between wildlife sanctuary and national park
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Sal forests and their ecological role
Mains Enrichment:
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Discuss how courts can balance tribal rights, conservation, and economic development.
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Analyse the Saranda case as an example of judicial environmentalism in India.