The Forest Conservation Act, 1980 is a critical piece of legislation aimed at conserving India’s forest cover. The act is designed to protect the country’s forests, wildlife and biodiversity by regulating diversion of forestland for non-forest purposes such as industrial, residential, and infrastructure development.
Under the act, the central government is empowered to approve proposals for diversion of forestland and prescribe conditions for such diversion. The act requires that prior approval be obtained before any forestland can be used for non-forest purposes and that compensatory afforestation be carried out to mitigate the impact of the diversion.
The Forest Conservation Act also provides for the creation of a Forest Advisory Committee to advise the central government on all matters related to forest conservation. The act also mandates that the state governments must constitute a State-level Monitoring Committee to monitor the implementation of the act and to take corrective measures as necessary.
One of the key provisions of the act is that any person who violates the provisions of the act is liable to be punished with imprisonment for a term that may extend to one year, or with a fine, or with both.
In conclusion, the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 is a landmark piece of legislation that is critical for the conservation of India’s forests and wildlife. By regulating the diversion of forestland for non-forest purposes, the act helps to ensure that the country’s valuable natural resources are protected and preserved for future generations.