The regulation and protection of forests may soon fall under National Board of Forestry and State Boards of Forestry, as recommended by a new draft National Forest Policy.
These Boards, as proposed in the draft prepared by the Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal, would be responsible for implementing the new policy if and when it comes into force, replacing the existing laws formulated in 1988.
These Boards would have the responsibility of “ensuring inter-sectoral convergence, simplification of procedures, conflict resolution and periodic review,” says the draft policy, which has been made public, and is open to the citizen for comments until June 30.
“Forests influence and in-turn are influenced by activities and functions of different sectors such as mining, water, roads, tourism, agriculture, rural development, industry, irrigation, etc. Necessary collaborative steps should be undertaken to ensure that the policies, laws and programmes of various sectors are in harmony with the objectives of this policy and conflicts and contradictions, if any, should be resolved comprehensively,” the draft said.
The draft, which also recommends integrating climate change concerns into the forest policy, said that agro-forestry should be given a push, and the use of wood encouraged over other emission-intensive resources to both support livelihood generation as well as mitigate climate change impact.
The paper also suggests putting monetary valuation to environmental resources. “Recognise runoff regulation, aquifer recharge and water purification functions as the major tangible ecosystem services from forests. Adequately factor green accounting and valuation of ecosystem services into the planning and management of all forests, protected areas and other ecosystems,” the draft says.