The Central Government has introduced the “Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Rules, 2023.” These rules outline a framework for the approval and management of proposals related to the use and dereservation of forest land. The rules have come into force on December 1, 2023,
Advisory Committees and Empowered Committees
The Central Government has been granted the authority to constitute an Advisory Committee to provide counsel on grant approvals under specific sections. Additionally, Regional Empowered Committees will be formed at each Regional Office to examine proposals and either approve or reject them.
Project Screening Committees and Approval Process
To streamline the process of seeking approval for forest-related projects, Project Screening Committees will be established by State Governments and Union Territory Administrations. Proposals seeking the approval of the Central Government will undergo a two-stage approval process: ‘In-Principle’ approval and ‘Final’ approval.
The user agency is mandated to submit an online application through the web portal of the Central Government, generating a unique proposal identity number for future references. Simultaneously, copies of the proposal will be sent to relevant authorities for preliminary examinations.
Scrutiny and Field Verification
Proposals will be scrutinized by Project Screening Committees to ensure completeness and correctness. The committees have the authority to seek additional information or clarification from the user agency. If a proposal is found deficient, it must be resubmitted within a specified timeframe.
Field verification, including joint verification by officers of the Revenue Department and Forest Department, will be conducted for proposals involving forest land. The Divisional Forest Officer, Conservator of Forests, and Nodal Officer will play distinct roles based on the size and nature of the proposal.
In-Principle Approval and Final Approval
The proposals will undergo ‘In-Principle’ approval by the Central Government, subject to specified conditions and restrictions. Regional Empowered Committees and Advisory Committees will play pivotal roles in assessing the environmental impact and recommending measures for mitigating adverse effects.
The final approval process involves communication from the Nodal Officer to relevant authorities, preparing a demand note for compensatory levies, and ensuring compliance with stipulated conditions before granting ‘Final’ approval.
Ensuring Accountability
The rules specify a stringent process for handling incomplete or incorrect information, including the possibility of rejection if correct information is not provided within the specified period. The framework also emphasizes the importance of compensatory afforestation and compliance with relevant statutes.
The “Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Rules, 2023” are poised to play a pivotal role in balancing development needs with environmental conservation imperatives, ensuring sustainable growth in the country.
