Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 with Amendments Made in 1988
The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 with Amendments Made in 1988
The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 regulates the use of forest land across India to prevent indiscriminate deforestation. It applies to state governments, public authorities, private organizations, and individuals. Under the law, state governments cannot de-reserve forests, clear natural trees, or divert forest land for non-forest activities like agriculture, mining, or private leasing without prior approval from the Central Government. The Act also establishes an Advisory Committee to guide these approvals and imposes penalties, including imprisonment, for violations. This legislation is vital for protecting India's natural ecology, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring that development projects do not destroy essential forest cover.
- 0. Preamble
- 1. Short title, extent and commencement.
- 2. Restriction on the dereservation of forests or use of forest land for non-forest purpose.
- 3. Constitution of Advisory Committee.
- 3A. Central Government.
- 3B. Whoever contravenes or abets the contravention of any of the provisions of Section 2, shall be punishable with simple imprisonment for a period which may extend to fifteen days.
- 4. Power to make rules.
- 5. Repeal and saving.
PDF: pending for this language.