2023 Forest Conservation Amendment Bill

The Indian government has recently taken a major step towards forest conservation and sustainable land use practices by introducing the Forest conservation Amendment Bill, 2023, in the Lok Sabha. 

This proposed legislation aims to amend the Forest conservation  Act of 1980, with a primary objective of increasing the carbon stock in forests through the promotion of plantations and compensatory afforestation. 

Key Features of the Bill

The Forest Conservation Amendment Bill, 2023, encompasses several significant provisions to enhance forest conservation efforts and streamline forest-related activities. Let’s delve into some of the key features of this bill:

De-reservation or non-forest use is prohibited.

Forest activities such as de-reservation or non-forest use of forest land are forbidden under this statute. Certain circumstances, however, may be evaluated for central government approval. 

Expanded Scope of Non-Forest Purposes

The bill expands the scope of non-forest purposes exempted from de-reservation or non-forest use limitations. Activities such as the establishment of zoos, safaris, eco-tourism facilities, silvicultural operations, and central government-specified purposes are now included. 

Coverage of Forest Land

The 2023 Forest Conservation Amendment Bill addresses two categories of land. The first group comprises land designated as a forest under the Indian Forest Act of 1927 or any other applicable statute. 

The second group covers territory that did not come within the first category but was formally designated as a forest in government records on or after October 25, 1980. 

Specific Exemptions

The measure has explicit exclusions to meet certain conditions. Within a 0.10 hectare restriction, forest area near to railway lines or government-maintained public roads that give access to dwellings, trains, or roadside services is excluded. 

Furthermore, forest land within 100 kilometres of international borders, the Line of Control, or the Line of Actual Control proposed for strategic linear projects of national importance or security, as well as land up to 10 hectares intended for security-related infrastructure or defence-related projects, paramilitary forces camps, or public parks, will be exempt. 

Changes in Assigning Forest Land

The Forest Conservation Amendment Bill, 2023, introduces changes in assigning forest land through lease or other means. 

While current law requires state governments or authorities to seek central government approval before leasing or assigning forest land to non-governmental organisations, the bill allows such assignments to be made to any organisation, including private individuals, agencies, authorities, or corporations, subject to central government restrictions.

Empowering the Central Government

The bill grants the central government the power to issue directions to any other authority or organisation recognized by the central, state, or union territory governments for the effective implementation of the Act. 

This provision empowers the central government to oversee and guide the implementation process, ensuring that the objectives of the Forest Conservation Amendment Bill, 2023, are effectively met.

Increasing Forest Conservation Efforts

The Forest Conservation Amendment Bill, 2023, represents the government’s persistent commitment to improving forest conservation efforts, boosting carbon stock, and supporting sustainable land use practises across the country. 

The Indian government hopes to establish a balance between non-forest development and the preservation of valuable wooded regions by revising existing regulations. 

Summary

The bill’s key features, including provisions on forest activities, expanded scope of non-forest purposes, coverage of forest land, specific exemptions, changes in assigning forest land, and empowering the central government, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to sustainable forest management.