Forest Conservation ACT 1980
Forest Conservation ACT 1980
The forest conservation act of 1980 was enacted to control deforestation. It ensured that
forestlands could not be de-reserved without prior approval of the Central government.
The forest conservation Act of 1980, which was amended in 1988 it, is essential to
understand its historical background. The Indian forest Act of 1927 consolidated all the
previous laws regarding forests that were passed before the 1920s. The Act gave the
government and Forest Department the power to create Reserved Forests, & the power to
create reserved forests, & the right to use Reserved Forests for the government use alone.
The Act remained in force fill the 1980s when it was realized that the protecting forests for
timber production alone was not acceptable.
India’s, these states had regularized encroachments and resettled ‘project Affected people’
from development projects such as dams in these de-reserved areas.
Objectives
1. Forest dwellers must have access to subsidized sources of fuel, fodder, building
material etc so that they do not cut trees.
2. Modify working plans into environmentally sound action plans based on scientific
research.
In India, the judiciary has shown deep concern for the forest conservation. The judiciary has
not only played a pivotal role in a manner to interpret the forest laws to protect the forest and
environment but it also has Shown judicial activism by entertaining public interest litigations
under articles 32 and 226 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court and High Courts while
protecting environment and promoting sustainable development have delivered many
important judgments.
R.L. & E. Kendra, Dehradun v. State of U.P, AIR 1985 S.C. 652 (popularly known as
Doon Valley Case)
TN. Godavarman Thimmulpad v. Union of India, (1997) 2 SCC 267 (popularly known
as Forest Conservation case)
Acquaint yourself with the laws, detailed rules and orders issued by the
government.
Be in touch with concerned local NGOs and associations. Organize one with other
like-minded people if none exist in your area.
Create awareness about the existence and value of national parks and sanctuaries
and build up a public opinion against illegal activities in the forest or disturbance to
wildlife.
Pressurize the authorities to implement the forest and wild life laws and rules to
protect green areas.
Take legal action if necessary and if possible through a public interest litigation
(PIL) against the offending party. Use the help of NGOs who can undertake legal
action.
Help to create public pressure to change rules, laws and procedures when
necessary.
Use better, ecologically sensitive public transport and bicycle tracks, do not litter in
a forest area.
Participate in preservation of greenery, by planting, watering caring for plants.