Expert panel sets norms for religious sites in sanctuaries, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• An expert body under the Environment Ministry has set guidelines for diverting land within wildlife sanctuaries for religious structures.
• The decision follows a 2024 proposal for land diversion within the Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat.
• In July 2024, the SCNBWL initially cleared a proposal by Pramukhshri Mukundpuriji Maharaj Seva Trust to use 0.35 hectares of forest land.
• The clearance was revoked in October 2024 due to concerns about setting a precedent for similar demands.
• The Environment Minister suggested formulating an SOP for applications involving religious institutions and appointed a panel for this purpose.
• The guidelines state that construction on forest land after 1980 should be treated as encroachment, with exceptions considered on a case-by-case basis.

Detailed Insights:

• The Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary hosts two historical temples, Balaram and Ambaji, at opposite corners.
• The initial proposal was approved by the Chief Wildlife Warden and the Gujarat State Government, citing the establishment's existence before forest rights settlement.
• HS Singh, a member of the SCNBWL, raised concerns that the Trust's right to the land was not officially recognized, leading to the revocation of the clearance.
• The Inspector General of Forests noted that many sanctuaries across the country have unsettled rights and claims.
• The guidelines are currently being deliberated upon by State Governments.
• The guidelines aim to address the development of sacred caves and religious places inside forests and wildlife areas, as mentioned in religious texts.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Wildlife Sanctuary: Protected area for conservation of wild animals and their habitat.
• Encroachment: Illegal occupation of land, especially public or protected land.
• Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): A set of step-by-step instructions for routine operations.