Question 98 from UPSC CSE 2023 - Environme nt

Question

Consider the following statements:
1. 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.
2. Hunting is not allowed in such an area.
3. People of such an area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce.
4. People of such an area are allowed traditional agricultural practices.
How many of the above statements are correct?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. Only three

Strategy: - The Chief Wildlife Warden governs community reserves according to the Wildlife Protection Act.
- Hunting is consistently banned in all categories of protected areas.
- Non-timber forest produce (NTFP) collection is generally permitted for sustenance.
- Agricultural expansion is not allowed in these reserved zones.
- Therefore, only the first three points are correct.

Key Info: ## Community Reserves Overview

Community Reserves were introduced through the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2002, amending the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. These are areas owned by the community or private individuals and declared for wildlife protection while allowing sustainable use of forest produce.

### Governance

- Management vests in the Community Reserve Management Committee (comprising local stakeholders).
- The Chief Wildlife Warden is the statutory authority under Section 33 of the Act, ensuring oversight.

### Prohibited Activities

- Hunting of wild animals is strictly prohibited under Chapter III of the Act for all Protected Area categories, including Community Reserves.
- Cultivation or extension of traditional agriculture is not permitted within a notified Community Reserve.

### Permitted Activities

- Collection of non-timber forest produce (NTFP), such as fruits, honey, and medicinal plants, by local communities for sustenance is generally allowed following management plans, provided it does not harm conservation values.

### Role

These categories of reserves function as buffer zones and wildlife corridors, and represent a participatory approach to conservation.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Only one

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Only two

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: All four