Wildlife Habitat Infrastructure Development Guidelines
An expert apex body of the Environment Ministry has established guidelines for land diversion within wildlife habitats for religious structures. This initiative arose following a unique proposal concerning the Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat.
Case Study: Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary
- Proposal involved using 0.35 hectares of forest land for religious purposes.
- The proposal was initially approved by Gujarat’s Chief Wildlife Warden and State Government, based on "establishment" before forest rights settlement.
- Clearance was revoked due to lack of established rights in official records.
- Concerns were raised about setting precedents for similar diversions in protected areas.
Formulation of Guidelines
- Acknowledgment of sacred sites within forests and wildlife areas, with historical and religious importance.
- Environment Minister proposed a Standard Operating Procedure for applications by religious institutions.
- A committee was suggested for guideline formulation.
Guideline Principles
- Any construction or expansion on forest land post-1980 is regarded as "encroachment."
- Exceptional cases may be considered if documented justification is provided by the State.
- Limited expansion proposals only considered for ecological conflict mitigation or public utility creation.
Recent Committee Decision
In December 2025, the SCNBWL deferred a decision on a land diversion proposal in the Jamwaramgarh Wildlife Sanctuary for temple renovation and maintenance.
