Prelims 2023 · Environment · Question 18
Consider the following statements: Once the Central Government notifies an area as a 'Community Reserve' —
- the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest
- hunting is not allowed in such area
- people of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce
- people of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Answer
Only three
1. Chief Wildlife Warden becomes governing authority — Incorrect. A Community Reserve Management Committee is the governing body under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972; the Chief Wildlife Warden exercises supervision/control under the Act but is not the governing authority.
2. Hunting is not allowed — Correct. Community Reserve is a protected area category, so hunting is prohibited except under specific legal exceptions in the Act.
3. People are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce — Correct. Community Reserves are designed to conserve habitat without extinguishing community rights, so regulated collection of NTFP/customary forest produce is allowed where such rights exist.
4. People are allowed traditional agricultural practices — Correct. Community Reserves are created on community/private lands where traditional uses and practices of local people may continue, subject to the conservation objective and management plan.
Hence, statements 2, 3 and 4 are correct.