On September 20, 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced significant amendments to the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Rules, 2023. These changes reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to balance environmental conservation with developmental needs, especially concerning forest land management. The new rules may be called the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Amendment Rules, 2024
Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Rules
The Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Rules are a set of guidelines established under the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam of 1980, aimed at promoting the conservation and sustainable management of forests in India. These rules govern various aspects of forest management, including compensatory afforestation—a practice where forest land that is diverted for non-forest purposes must be compensated by afforestation elsewhere.
Key Amendments in the 2024 Notification
1. Introduction of New Provisions for Compensatory Afforestation
One of the most noteworthy changes in the amendment is found in rule 13. The amended provisions allow for compensatory afforestation on degraded forest land when suitable land is not available. This is particularly relevant for:
- Central Government agencies
- Central Public Sector Undertakings
- Captive coal blocks of State Public Sector Undertakings
The new rule states that, in exceptional circumstances, compensatory afforestation can occur on degraded land that is twice the size of the area being diverted. This flexibility aims to streamline the process of afforestation while addressing the practical challenges faced by these entities.
2. Removal of Certain Entries in Schedule-II
The amendments also involve specific changes to Schedule-II of the rules:
- Omission of Entries for Central and State Government Proposals: The reference to certain proposals being allowed for Central and State Government or Union Territory Administrations has been removed. This simplifies the framework under which these proposals are evaluated.
- Clarification on State Public Sector Undertakings: Similarly, the provisions regarding dispensations for State Public Sector Undertakings dealing with captive coal blocks have been omitted. This removal aims to clarify the application of rules and ensure a more uniform approach across different sectors.
Implications of the Amendments
Enhancing Flexibility in Forest Management
The amendments introduce a level of flexibility that can be critical for development projects, especially in regions where suitable land for compensatory afforestation is scarce. By allowing for afforestation on degraded land, the government seeks to ensure that development does not come at the cost of forest conservation.
Encouraging Sustainable Practices
The emphasis on utilizing degraded forest land for compensatory afforestation can promote the regeneration of areas that may have been neglected. This approach not only aids in reforestation efforts but also contributes to biodiversity conservation and the overall health of ecosystems.
Streamlining Processes
The removal of certain entries in Schedule-II reduces the bureaucratic hurdles that can delay important projects. By clarifying the rules and removing outdated provisions, the amendments aim to foster a more efficient regulatory environment for both governmental and non-governmental entities.
Conclusion
The 2024 amendments to the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Rules signify a thoughtful approach to forest management in India, balancing developmental pressures with ecological preservation. By introducing provisions that allow for compensatory afforestation on degraded land and streamlining existing regulations, the government is working towards more sustainable environmental practices.
