Central Idea

The Mizoram Assembly passed a resolution opposing the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023, to safeguard the rights and interests of the people of Mizoram.

Why discuss this?

The amendment permits the diversion of forest land for certain projects near international borders without forest clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act (FCA) 1980.
Other Northeastern states, including Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, and Sikkim, governed by the ruling govt at centre or its allies, have also objected to the 100-km exemption clause.

Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023
Objective	Clarify and enhance the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
Scope	Applicability to land designated as forest since 1980
Exemptions	Land within 100 km of borders for national security, roadside amenities, and public roads
Assignment of Forest Land	Prior approval required from central government for all entities
Permitted Activities	Expanded to include check posts, fencing, bridges, zoos, safaris, and eco-tourism facilities

Constitutional protections like Article 371A for Nagaland and 371G for Mizoram prohibit the application of certain laws enacted by Parliament in these states.
In 1986, Nagaland extended the FCA’s application to specific forests, but its status remains uncertain due to conflicting ministry statements.
Mizoram, since becoming a state in 1986, has the FCA in force, covering a significant portion of its forest areas.

The FCA is applicable in the rest of the Northeast, including Meghalaya, Tripura, Assam, Manipur, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
The FCA clearance process differs among these states.

Protecting Northeastern forests requires a balance between legal frameworks like the FCA and FRA.
Clear guidelines and proactive measures can safeguard both forest rights and the environment in the region.