Over 1.88 lakh ha of forest land diverted in 10 yrs, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• Over 1.88 lakh hectares of forest land were diverted between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2026, for various purposes, including industrial projects.
• This diversion was carried out under the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980, which was previously known as the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.
• According to the India State of Forest Report 2023, the country's total forest and tree cover has increased to 8,27,357.95 sq km.
• The average time for environmental clearance in FY 2025-26 was 57 days, which is significantly faster than the statutory timeline of 105 days prescribed by the EIA Notification, 2006.

Forest Clearance.jpg

Detailed Insights:

• The Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980 was amended in 2023 to broaden its scope, align with India's Net Zero Emission target by 2070, and facilitate the creation of additional carbon sinks.
• The India State of Forest Report, published biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI), provides a comprehensive assessment of the nation's forest resources.
• The EIA Notification, 2006 establishes a legal framework for evaluating the environmental impacts of proposed projects, categorizing them into 'A' and 'B' based on their potential impact.
• Forest land diversion is primarily undertaken for developmental activities such as infrastructure projects, mining, and hydel power generation.
• The reported increase in forest and tree cover is attributed to various factors, including afforestation drives, improved conservation efforts, natural regeneration, and the enhancement of existing forest areas.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980: Indian legislation regulating the diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes, amended in 2023 to enhance conservation and augmentation.
• India State of Forest Report (ISFR): A biennial publication by the Forest Survey of India that assesses the country's forest and tree cover.
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): A process to evaluate the likely environmental impacts of a proposed project or development, ensuring environmental considerations are integrated into decision-making.
• Forest Cover: Defined as all land, more than one hectare in area, with a tree canopy density of over 10%, irrespective of ownership or legal status.