Question

Match the correct pair : 
\[\begin{array}{ll} \textbf{Column 'A'} & \textbf{Column 'B'} \\ \text{(1) Forest Conservation Act} & \text{(a) 1986} \\ & \text{(b) 1980} \\ & \text{(c) 1970} \\  \end{array}\]

Hint:

For matching legal acts with years, recall the year of enactment or commencement; landmark environmental laws in India include the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980.

Answer 1

The Forest (Conservation) Act was enacted by the Parliament of India and came into force on 25 October 1980, making 1980 the correct year to match with the Forest Conservation Act. The other years listed are not the year of enactment for this legislation.
The Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980 was a landmark piece of legislation aimed at preventing the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes without prior approval from the central government. Key aspects of the Act include:
- Purpose of the Act: The primary aim of the Forest (Conservation) Act was to conserve India's forests and to regulate deforestation, particularly for purposes like agriculture, mining, and industrial projects. It sought to safeguard ecological balance and biodiversity by placing legal restrictions on the diversion of forest land for non-forest activities.
- Central Government Approval: The Act mandates that no forest land can be diverted to non-forest uses unless permission is granted by the central government. This ensures that any loss of forest cover is justified by essential public projects, while taking into account the long-term environmental impact.
- Environmental Impact: The Act was designed to address growing concerns over deforestation, environmental degradation, and the loss of biodiversity in India. It established a legal framework for balancing developmental needs with the need to protect and preserve forests.
- Amendments and Challenges: Over the years, the Forest (Conservation) Act has undergone amendments to address changing environmental, economic, and political conditions. Despite its successes in curbing deforestation, challenges remain, such as illegal logging, encroachments, and conflicts between development projects and forest conservation.
In conclusion, the Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980 was enacted with the goal of preserving India's forests and regulating land use. The Act continues to play a critical role in the country's environmental protection efforts and in shaping policy decisions related to land and forest resources.