Amendments to the Forest (Conservation) Act 2023

Details of the Amendments

• Purpose of Amendments: Aimed at promoting natural regeneration, afforestation, and plantation efforts between States/Union Territories and both government and non-government bodies. 
• Framework for Implementation: State governments are empowered to create frameworks for plantation utilization and revenue-sharing on a case-by-case basis. 
• Exemption from Certain Requirements: Activities in alignment with an approved Working Plan/Management Plan are not subject to Compensatory Afforestation or Net Present Value payments. 
• Detailed Project Report (DPR): Afforestation and plantation projects must be sanctioned by preparing a DPR aligning with the Working Plan, detailing area extent, species, proposed activities, and sustainable harvests. 

Circular Issued by Ministry

• Date: January 2, 2026. 
• Recommendations: Based on the Advisory Committee's recommendations and approved by the competent authority. 

In conclusion, these developments signify a potential shift towards increased private involvement in forest management, raising concerns about the long-term implications for India's environmental policies and governance.