Supreme Court Verdict on Saranda Forest

The Supreme Court of India has directed the Jharkhand government to notify a new wildlife sanctuary in Saranda, emphasizing its importance as a biodiversity hotspot and addressing past issues of illegal mining.

Background and Legal Proceedings

• The Supreme Court's order is a response to a plea for compliance with a National Green Tribunal (NGT) judgment from July 2022, which sought an eco-sensitive zone declaration in the Saranda/Sasangada Sanctuary.
• The NGT had earlier considered Saranda a repository of fine Sal forests but found no record of it being officially declared a game sanctuary.
• Despite the NGT's recommendations, Jharkhand had not notified any sanctuary, leading to further legal action.
• On October 10, the Supreme Court mandated Jharkhand to submit an undertaking to notify 314.68 sq km as a wildlife sanctuary.
• The Jharkhand government later proposed a smaller area to protect community rights, which led to further hearings.

Saranda's Ecological Importance

• Saranda covers 856 sq km, with 816 sq km reserved and the rest protected forest.
• The area is known for its rich biodiversity, hosting elephants, antelopes, sloth bears, and multiple elephant corridors.
• Mining, both legal and illegal, has contributed to habitat degradation and a decline in biodiversity.
• The Wildlife Institute of India's studies show a negative correlation between mining proximity and species richness.

Jharkhand Government's Stance

• The Hemant Soren government supports the sanctuary declaration but stresses the need to protect tribal and forest dwellers' rights.
• Saranda holds 26% of India's iron ore reserves, and the government emphasizes the significance of mineral revenue.
• There are concerns that sanctuary status might criminalize local subsistence activities, conflicting with the Forest Rights Act.

Mining Interests and Legal Controversies

• Active mines in the region produce significant iron ore, contributing 5% of India's annual output.
• The Supreme Court clarified that existing mining leases won't be affected by the sanctuary notification.
• Illegal mining in the region has been a longstanding issue, with the Shah Commission reporting extensive unlawful extraction.
• The Union Environment Ministry has implemented a sustainable mining plan, designating 'go' and 'no-go' areas for mining.