Environmental Stories.

Haryana Aims for Pollution-Free Rivers by 2025: Minister's Assurance.

Haryana's determination to revive its water bodies took center stage as Environment and Forest Minister Kanwar Pal unveiled an ambitious plan to ensure pollution-free rivers across the state by 2025. Acknowledging the pressing need to combat rising pollution levels, discussions are actively ongoing with district officials to formulate effective strategies for reducing river pollution.

Recent meetings, chaired by Minister Kanwar Pal, witnessed detailed presentations by Ambala and Karnal officials, focusing on pollution sources and preventive measures for the Yamuna and Ghaggar rivers. Originating in Himachal Pradesh, Ghaggar flows through several Haryana districts, while the Yamuna's course encompasses Karnal, Panipat, and Sonepat before reaching New Delhi.

Reports from these meetings revealed successful completion of sewer line installations in 30 out of 34 towns within the Yamuna catchment area. Ongoing efforts aim to extend this progress to Karnal, Panipat, Palwal, and Faridabad by September. This concerted endeavor underscores Haryana's commitment to fostering a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

Haryana's proactive stance in addressing river pollution exemplifies the pivotal role played by local governments and communities in safeguarding natural resources. Through collaborative efforts and determined actions, the goal of pollution-free rivers by 2025 emerges as a shared aspiration for a healthier, greener future within the state. Additionally, ongoing initiatives like the Ghaggar River Action Plan and measures to tighten industrial norms emphasize Haryana's comprehensive approach to environmental preservation.

Palamu Tiger Reserve's Villages Set for Relocation:

The Ministry of Forests, Climate Change, and Environment has granted stage two clearance for the transfer of 166 hectares of reserve forest land, marking a significant step toward the relocation of three villages within the core area of the Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR). The move is aimed at creating a safe haven for tigers to thrive. The relocation policy states that each 18-year-old male member of a family would be entitled to either ₹15 lakh in cash or five acres of land. The identified land is located at Lai-Paila Pathal in the reserve's Latehar forest division.

Around 270 families need to be resettled on this land, with priority given to the villages of Kujrum, Laatu, and Jaigir. After obtaining approval from the Union ministry, the forest land will be de-reserved, and a district-level committee will work on finalizing a micro plan for the development of the proposed site, which will include amenities like hospitals, schools, and roads. The process is expected to take around a month to commence.

While challenges remain, including differing preferences for cash or land among the affected families, the relocation effort is set to create a larger inviolate area within the reserve, allowing tigers to flourish. Presently, the Palamu Tiger Reserve spans over 1,129 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it one of the country's crucial tiger reserves.

As the relocation plan progresses, the initiative underscores the significance of balancing human settlements with conservation efforts to ensure the sustainable coexistence of both communities and wildlife.

Naga People's Front Opposes New Forest Conservation Act 2023.

The Naga People's Front (NPF) has strongly opposed India's newly passed Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act 2023, asserting that the law is detrimental to tribal interests. Labeling it as "anti-tribal," the party has called for the Nagaland state assembly to pass a resolution against the law. The amendment act received the President's assent on August 4 and will take effect after being officially notified by the central government in the gazette.

The NPF contends that the new law undermines the authority of state governments, eroding their power to make decisions related to forest matters. This change is seen as conflicting with Article 371 A, which grants a degree of autonomy to Nagaland. Lawmaker Küzholüzo Nienü, also known as Azo Nienu, emphasized the need for a counter law to address the implications of the Forest Amendment Act. The assembly session on September 11 is expected to discuss the impact and potential remedies.

The amended forest law has raised concerns among MPs and tribal communities due to provisions such as the 100km exemption for environmental clearance along international borders for strategic projects. There are worries about increased central control over forests and its implications for Centre-state dynamics. Critics fear that the law could negatively impact tribal lands and local autonomy, leading to unrest in northeastern states. The law's focus on conservation without due consideration for tribal rights has sparked controversy, prompting demands for more inclusive and balanced legislation. As India navigates the delicate balance between conservation and tribal rights, the opposition of parties like the Naga People's Front underscores the complexity of enacting legislation that addresses environmental concerns while respecting the rights and traditions of indigenous communities.