Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Statement On Activities and Achievements in 2013
Statement On Activities and Achievements in 2013
BRIEF STATEMENT ON
ACTIVITIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS
2013
CONTENTS
I.
II.
III.
Conservation ....................................................................................................13
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
Research ............................................................................................................50
IX.
X.
XI.
XII.
XIII.
XIV.
XV.
XVI.
XVII.
I.
1.1.
The Ministry of Environment & Forests is the nodal agency in the Central
Government for planning, promoting, co-ordinating and overseeing environmental,
ecological, forestry and wildlife policies and programmes.
The Ministry is also the nodal agency for the United Nations Environment Programme
(UNEP), South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP), International Centre
for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), and United Nations Conference on
Environment and Development (UNCED). On matters pertaining to the environment, it
coordinates with multilateral bodies such as the Commission on Sustainable Development
(CSD) and Global Environment Facility (GEF) and regional bodies such as the Economic and
Social Council for Asia and Pacific (ESCAP) and South Asian Association for Regional
Cooperation (SAARC).
The institutional set up of the Ministry includes a number of Directorates and
Divisions assembled around the main thematic sectors of environment and ecology, national
river conservation, forestry and wildlife, afforestation and eco-development, and animal
welfare. There are six Regional Offices; eight Subordinate Offices (e.g. Botanical, Zoological
and Forests Surveys of India, and Directorate of Forestry Education); Boards and Authorities
(e.g. Central Pollution Control Board, National Biodiversity Authority, National Ganga River
Basin Authority, National Tiger Conservation Authority, Central Zoo Authority and Animal
Welfare Board of India); Autonomous Institutions (e.g. Society for Integrated Coastal
Management, Indian Council for Forestry Research and Education and Wildlife Institute of
India); and one Public Sector Undertaking, namely, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Forest
Plantation Development Corporation Ltd. at Port Blair.
Its main activities include conservation and survey of natural resources including
flora, fauna, forests, wildlife, aquatic bodies and water resources, and eco-systems, prevention
and control of pollution and management of hazardous substances, protection of the
environment and forests, including their biodiversity, mitigation and adaptation to climate
change through measures that include afforestation, regeneration of degraded areas, and
adoption of cleaner technologies, and promoting sustainable development and better
environmental governance while protecting human, plant and animal life, health and welfare.
1.2.
Mandate
As per Allocation of Business Rules, the Ministry is responsible for the following:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
The main tools used to discharge its mandate include, inter alia, conducting surveys;
collecting, compiling and disseminating data and information; undertaking scientific research,
extension services and analyses; carrying out impact assessment of developmental projects
and programmes; regulating use of natural resources; undertaking regeneration programmes;
providing technical, scientific, financial and administrative support to organisations and
institutions; imparting education, training, building capacity and generating awareness among
stakeholders and the public at large; and promoting international cooperation through
bilateral, regional and multilateral initiatives in environment and ecology.
1.3.
In the Twelfth Five Year Plan (2012-17) document, the vision for the Ministry has
been stated as Managing environment, forests, wildlife and challenges due to climate change
for faster and equitable growth, where ecological security for sustainability and inclusiveness
is restored, equity in access to all environmental goods and ecosystem services is assured
through institutionalization of peoples participation; and a future in which the nation takes
pride in the quality of its environment, forests, richness of its biodiversity, and efforts by the
State and its people to protect, expand and enrich it, for intra and inter-generational equity
and welfare of the local and global community.
The primary objectives are implementation of policies and programmes relating to
conservation of the countrys natural resources including lakes and rivers, bio-diversity,
forests and wildlife, ensuring welfare of animals and prevention and abatement of pollution.
The objectives are supported by necessary policy framework and legislative and regulatory
measures aiming at preservation, conservation and protection of environment. Some of these
are the National Forest Policy 1988, National Conservation Strategy and Policy Statement on
Environment and Development, 1992, Policy Statement on Abatement of Pollution, 1992, and
National Environment Policy 2006 and associated legislation, including the Forests
(Conservation) Act, 1980, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, Environment
(Protection) Act, 1986, Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991, National Environment Tribunal
Act, 1995, National Environment Appellate Authority Act, 1997, Prevention of Cruelty to
Animals Act, 2001, Bio-Diversity Act 2002 and National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
Ministry has formulated various regulatory instruments (environmental standards,
consent administration, authorization, environmental and forestry clearances etc.) and created
institutional infrastructure at the National, regional, and State level in the form of Regional
Offices of the Ministry, CPCB, State Pollution Control Boards/ Pollution Control
Committees, State Departments of Environment and Forest, and various environmental
research institutions/ organizations etc. The Ministry has also launched several Plan schemes
to strengthen the regulatory mechanism for environmental management.
Towards programmatic strategies for environment and forestry sectors, it lays
emphasis on improving forest cover, preserving wetlands, treatment of municipal solid waste
and urban sewage, restoration of mining areas, community involvement in forest
management, protection and preservation of biodiversity and wildlife and community rights
and appropriate pricing of minor forest produce and addressing the challenges involved in
mitigation and adaptation actions under climate change. The Twelfth Plan has identified 13
monitorable socio-economic targets for the Ministry and 14 goals which should receive
special attention as in Box 1 and Box 2 respectively below.
Box 2: GOALS
Environment
(1) Epidemiological studies to assess improvement in health status due to better management of environment
and ecology.
(2) Promotion and adoption of cleaner technology, strengthening and initiation of reforms in regulations, policy
making and enforcement institutions for environmental governance.
(3) Move towards cumulative and strategic EIA.
(4) Ensure ecological flows in rivers by regulating abstractions to allow conservation of riverine eco-systems
by developing a legal framework and management strategy for conservation of river basins.
(5) Promote recycling and reuse of treated sewage in urban projects such as sanitation, landscaping, central air
conditioning and so on.
Forests and Livelihood
(6) Improve forest productivity, production and sustainable management of biodiversity (equity in access to
benefit sharing with local people).
(7) Restoration and intensification of forest-rangelands/ grazing-land management and establish community
grazing land around forest fringe villages.
(8) Build capacity of Village Forest Committees/ JFMCs for management of forest resources incl. ecotourism.
(9) Revive seed orchards and silviculture plots for various forest types of the country as well as for enlisted
species under Minor Forest Produce (MFP)/ Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) including genetic
improvement of and establishment of clonal orchards.
Wildlife, Ecotourism and Animal Welfare
(10) Reducing and managing human-wildlife conflict.
(11) Commercialise permissible marine products rich in poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), vitamins, etc.
(12) Promotion of ecotourism and participatory eco-development support livelihood of local population.
Ecosystem and Biodiversity
(13) Develop national targets and indicators related to biodiversity and support actions to strengthen
implementation of Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and ensure bio-safety for economic and social
development of local communities.
(14) Assess coastal biodiversity resources, ensure sustainable management, restoration of mangroves, coral reefs
and wetlands and support livelihood.
II.
2.1.
Survey of Flora
Botanical Survey of India (BSI)
BSI is the Ministrys apex research organization for carrying out taxonomic and
floristic studies on wild plant resources of the country. Established on 13th February 1890
with the objective of exploring the plant resources and identifying the plants species with
economic virtues, it was reorganised in 1954 (after independence)for scientific development.
During successive Plan periods, its functional base was expanded to include
inventorying,multiplication and maintenance of endemic, rare and threatened plant species,
wild ornamentals, etc. in Botanic Gardens and Orchidaria; evolving conservation strategies;
carrying out studies on fragile ecosystems and PAs (like wildlife sanctuaries, national parks
and biosphere reserves); documenting traditional knowledge associated with plants; and
developing a National Database of herbarium specimens/live collections/botanical
paintings/illustrations/ plant distribution,nomenclature and uses, etc.
Progress/Achievements:
(a)
(b)
2.2.
The manuscripts of (i) Flora of West Bengal, Vol. II; and (ii) Flora of
UP, Vol. III were submitted for publication.
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
Survey of Fauna
Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
ZSI was established on 1st July 1916 primarily to explore and inventorise the faunal
resources (diversity) of the country and to collect and document the baseline data with regard
to taxonomy, distribution, bio-ecology, traditional knowledge associated with fauna, etc., of
all available animal groups. During the last over 96 years, it has grown from a small unit at
the Indian Museum, Kolkata, to a premier National institution with Headquarters at Kolkata
and 16 Regional Centers country-wide. 11 Regional Museums have been established, besides
two Marine Aquaria, which are being further developed during the Twelfth Five-Year Plan
through addition of regional fauna and by establishing galleries, showing the importance of
animal life and their conservation. 02 Regional museums in Gangetic Plain Regional Centre,
Patna and Sunderban Regional Centre, Canning are being initiated during this Plan period.
Over the recent years, functions of ZSI have also expanded gradually encompassing
areas like Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) with regard to fauna; survey of
Conservation Areas; Status Survey of Endangered Species; Computerization of data on faunal
resources; Environmental Information System (ENVIS) on faunal diversity, etc. It also has a
regular training and extension service for creating public awareness for the conservation of
environment and wildlife through exhibitions, training programmes and interaction with
governments and NGO organizations, as well as universities, colleges and schools.
ZSI is the Custodian of the National Zoological Collections which comprise more than
two million specimens belonging to about 82,000 species, including about 10,000 species of
neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
The main objectives and functions of ZSI are:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
GIS and Remote Sensing studies for recorded animal diversity as well as for
selected threatened species.
Chromosomal Mapping and DNA finger-printing.
Environmental Impact Studies.
Maintenance of Museums at Headquarters and Regional Stations
Development of ENVIS and CITES Centers.
Research Fellowship, Associateship and Emeritus Scientists Programme.
Collaborative research programmes on biodiversity with other organizations.
Progress/ Achievements:
2.3.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
FSI, a national level organization for forest resource assessment of the country under
the Ministry, succeeded (in June 1981) the "Pre-Investment Survey of Forest Resources"
(PISFR), which was a project initiated in 1965 by Government of India with sponsorship of
the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP). The mandate of FSI was revised in 1986 in order to make it more
relevant to the rapidly changing needs and aspirations of the country.
Major activities of FSI are Forest and Tree Cover Assessment and Estimation of
Growing Stock of Wood within and outside the countrys forests. So far since 1987, with the
release of the India State of Forest Report 2011, 12 cycles of forest cover assessment have
been completed. In addition to forest cover, assessment of tree cover of the country is also
being carried out using the TOF inventory data. More than 80% forest area stood inventoried
by 2000.A new inventory design was adopted since 2002 to generate national level estimates
of growing stock both for forest and TOF resources on a two-year cycle on the basis of
selected sampled districts. This estimate is further improved in the subsequent cycle with the
increase in the numbers of sampled districts enabling progressive improvement in estimation
with each cycle.FSI also provides training to State Forest Departments personnel in
application of Remote Sensing and GIS in forest resource assessment. In 2013-14,
about3,500 forestry personnel have been trained, besides another 500 forestry personnel at
various outreach customized training courses for them. It is also working on various projects
assigned by Government of India some of which are as follows:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
2.4.
The Ministry has six Regional Offices located at Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar,
Chandigarh, Lucknow, and Shillong, with Headquarter in the Ministry at New Delhi. Their
primary function is to monitor and evaluate the ongoing forestry projects and schemes with
specific emphasis on conservation of forests and follow up action on implementation of the
conditions and safeguards laid down while granting clearance to development projects under
Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (EPA).
(a)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(c)
(d)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(e)
In pursuance of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of Indias Order dated 6th July 2011,
delivered its final judgment in LA. No. 1868 of 2007 filed by Lafarge Umiam Mining Pvt. Ltd
and other related LAs in Writ Petition No. 202 of 1995 in the matter of T.N. Godavarman
Thirumulpad versus Union of India & Others, and the decisions of the Expenditure Finance
Committee at its meeting held on 4th March 2013 to strengthen and expand the Regional
Offices, preparatory activities were undertaken towards establishing four new Regional
Offices at Chennai, Dehradun, Nagpur and Ranchi with effect from 01.04.2014.
2.5.
country over a time line, health and assessment of forests for varied stress factors and climate
monitoring and carbon sequestration in forests. The Decision Support System (a subset of
NFIS), under preparatory stage presently, will provide information of forest cover, forest type
and biodiversity richness of recorded forests of the country. It will also provide information
about PAs, including corridors, for all the States of the country. After developing the
methodology and scheme, FSI conducted four regional meetings with participation of 30
States/ UTs, who have also conveyed in-principle agreement for the development of NFIS.
NFIS is to prepare a blueprint towards the development of a comprehensive National
Forestry Database Management System (NFDMS) to effectively monitor various
programmes, develop an appropriate forest database and network with the State/ UT Forest
Departments. Its purpose is to assist in planning, implementation and real-time monitoring of
various schemes and to serve as an effective administrative tool for transparency, aiding in
socially inclusive and responsive public service. It will also be useful for validation and
dissemination of forestry statistics required for satisfying the national and international
commitments. The architecture of NFIS will be compatible with organizational and
management needs and will be flexible enough to allow for the incorporation of improved
corrective processes, new data, and new technologies.
2.6.
States have varying priorities for NTFPs, which have different economic roles to play
in the livelihood and socio-economic amelioration of various communities. Some NTFPs
have been nationalized whereas a large number of NTFPs are being allowed to be collected as
usufruct rights of the tribal and other communities living inside or in the vicinity of forests.
Due to the lack of any authentic data about the available NTFP resources, it is very difficult to
formulate any policy regarding prices, establishment of markets and other such mechanism to
safeguard the interest of the people who collect and trade them. Moreover, the contribution of
NTFPs towards Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has remained unreported. It is therefore,
necessary to assess the NTFP resources under a coordinated programme at the national level
with the active participation of the States.
Thus, the main objective of this Scheme in the Twelfth Plan is to carry out assessment,
monitoring and evaluation studies in the broad areas of forest trade, production and disposal
of NTFPs in the country, towards which the following have been identified so far:
(a)
(b)
10
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
Although the Planning Commission has suggested that the Ministry of Tribal Affairs
should be the nodal and administrative Ministry for operationalizing the Minimum Support
Produce (MSP) for Minor Forest Produce, and that the Allocation of Business Rules of that
Ministry should be amended to include the subject Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Minor
Forest Produce and other related matters, the responsibility for information regarding data
related to Minor Forest Produce has been placed with this Ministry, such as for the following:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
During 2013, the Ministry organized the Asia Regional Bamboo and Rattan Workshop
(10-13 December, 2013; New Delhi) in collaboration International Network for Bamboo and
Rattan (INBAR).Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), Dehradun,has
been assigned the task to submit the proposal covering NTFPs/ Minor Forest Producefor the
next cycle of Forestry Sector Report India.
2.8.
The Ministry deals with the formulation of guidelines and directions for domestic and
international trade in forest produce and the necessary regulation of export and import of
forest produce as per the Foreign Trade Policy as well as the applied Tariff rates. It also deals
with the issue of NOC for grant of export license for export of wood and wood products on
applications received through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, New Delhi.
International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO)
The International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO), established in 1983 with
Headquarter at Yokohama, Japan, and governed by the International Tropical Timber
Agreement (ITTA), is a commodity organisation bringing together producer and consumer
Member countries to discuss and exchange information and to develop policies on all aspects
of the world tropical timber economy. India, as a signatory to ITTA 1994, has ratified and
deposited the instrument of ratification for the successor ITTA 2006, with the UN Secretary
General in New York on 25th July 2008.Its governing body, the International Tropical Timber
Council (ITTC), composed of Member countries, is supported by four Committees:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
In 2013-14, from the available funds, the Ministry has released US $ 41,844/- to
11
ITTO, being arrears for annual contribution for Calendar Year 2011, US $ 30,387/- as part
payment towards Calendar Year 2012, and US$ 1,69,704/- being full annual contribution for
Calendar Year 2013.
International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR)
The Ministry organised the Asia Regional Bamboo and Rattan Workshop in
collaboration with INBAR from 10-13 December 2013 in New Delhi,which was attended by
the representatives of the States Forest Department and INBAR Member countries.The
workshop provided an opportunity to exchange and disseminate the overall scientific and
technical human resource potential for green growth and inclusive development based on
Bamboo and Rattan resources in the Asia region. It helped to charter a road map for the
bamboo and rattan Sector for the next decades.
2.9.
12
III.
Conservation
3.1.
Environmental Conservation
Mangroves
India is home to some of the best mangroves in the world. West Bengal has the
maximum of mangrove cover in the country followed by Gujarat and Andaman & Nicobar
Islands. However, not all coastal areas are suitable for mangrove plantation as mangrove
requires an appropriate mix of saline and freshwater, and soft substrate like mudflats to be
able to grow and perpetuate. 38 mangrove areas have been identified on a countrywide basis
for intensive conservation and management. The Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2011,
recognizes the mangrove areas as ecologically sensitive and categorizes them as CRZ-I(i),
which implies that these areas are accorded protection of the highest order.
FSI has been assessing the mangrove cover using remote sensing since 1987. The
current assessment shows that the mangrove cover is 4,662.56 km2 or 0.14% of total
geographical area. The very dense mangrove comprises 1,403 km2 (30.10%) and moderately
dense mangrove 1,658.12 km2 (35.57%), with open mangroves 1,600.44 km2 (34.33%).
Compared with 2009 assessment, there has been a net increase of 23.34 km2 in Indias
mangrove cover, attributable to increased plantations, particularly in Gujarat, and regeneration
of natural mangrove areas.
The project entitled Mangroves for the Future (MFF): AStrategy for Promoting
Investment in Coastal Ecosystem Conservation is being coordinated by the International
Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) covering, initially, eight countries(including India
since 2006) in South Asia, South East Asia and Western Indian Ocean. It is a partnershipbased initiative, involving government agencies, NGOs, research institutes, UN agencies and
other multilateral bodies, for promoting investment in coastal ecosystems for sustainable
development. To oversee and guide the IUCN-MFF (India) Programme and review, monitor
and evaluate its implementation, a National Coordination Body (NCB) has been constituted
by the Ministry.
MFF has adopted mangroves as its flagship ecosystem in recognition of the important
role that mangrove forests played in reducing the impact of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami,
and the severe effect on coastal livelihoods caused by the loss and degradation of mangroves.
However MFF embraces all coastal ecosystems, including coral reefs, estuaries, lagoons,
wetlands, beaches and seagrass beds. This inclusive approach reflects the ecosystem-based, or
reef to ridge, management approach.
The second phase (2010-2013) has been underway guided by the National Strategy
and Action Plan (NSAP) which is organised into two categories: Conservation Strategy and
Action Plan for mangroves and Resotration Strategy and Action Plan for potential and/or
degraded mangrove areas, with four priority areas: (i) environmentally sustainable livelihoods
to reduce pressure on coastal ecosystems; (ii) plantation of mangroves for creating green
13
belts; (iii) civil society awareness, participation and coastal decision making and sustainable
financing; and (iv) improving knowledge gaps.
MFF (India) has also published several knowledge products on Indias coastal and
marine diversity. These include Soldiers of our Coast, Towards Conservation and
Management of Mangrove Ecosystems in India, and Coral Reefs in India - Status, Threats
and Conservation Measures. MFF (India) also produced an educational movie Guardians of
the Coast, in partnership with Mr. Mike Pandey (Riverbank Studios), which showcased the
fascinating web of life that surrounds these tidal forests, including the regulatory and
provisioning services they provide and the livelihoods of local communities that depend on
them. A large grant project (USD 299,600/-) of IUCN titled Alternative Livelihood Options
for Vulnerable Mangrove Resource Users in the Sunderbans Biosphere Reserve, West
Bengal,signed on 16th November, 2011, has been under implementation over the last two
years.
As of 1st January 2013, MFF India has initiated its third cycle of small grant projects,
with the awarding of 5 projects from a selection of 52 proposals by the NCB, focussing on
one or more of the following: (i) promote innovative community based coastal rehabilitation
projects; (ii) build community resilience; (iii) build local capacity to implement sustainable
development strategies; (iv) create public awareness on environmental issues as integral to the
project; (v) address livelihood, income, equality and gender based concerns; (vi) demonstrate
potential for replication or scaling-up, and co-financing; and (vii) create an impact on policy
at National/ State/ District level, for ICZM.The projects formally commenced in midDecember 2013 and will be carried out over the next 18 months.
Partner
Center for Environment
Education (CEE)
Gujarat Institute for Desert
Ecology (GUIDE)
Save the Children, India
(b)
Project
Education for coastal and marine biodiversity conservation through
schools
Developing a practicable model through corporate-community
participation for successful mangrove restoration activities in
Kachchh, Gujarat
Strengthened capacity of children, communities and local
government by better preparedness and mitigation of climate change
and disaster risks in Kendrapara district, Odisha
Participatory community engagement and education for conservation
of mangroves in Palk Bay areas of Ramanathapuram district in Tamil
Nadu
Rehabilitation of degraded seagrass areas in Tuticorin coast of Gulf
of Mannar, Tamil Nadu to support long term conservation of seagrass
habitat
Coral reefs
The Indian reef area is estimated to be 2,375 km2 for encouraging targeted research on
both hard and soft corals. Four major coral reefs areas identified for intensive conservation
and management are: (i) Gulf of Mannar, (ii) Gulf of Kachchh, (iii) Lakshadweep, and (iv)
the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The emphasis is on preventive aspects through monitoring
and surveillance as the restoration work is both costly and time consuming.
The Ministry has established a National Coral Reef Research Centre at Port Blair. A
two-tier system at National and State level is in operation for effective coordination to
implement the Scheme on Mangroves and Coral Reefs. The Ministry provides financial
assistance to the State Forest Departments of all the four identified coral reefs areas for
14
activities like monitoring, surveillance, education and awareness. R&D activities with
emphasis on targeted research on coral biodiversity and its management, including various
aspects of pollution in these areas, is also supported.
3.1.2. Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere Reserves are areas of terrestrial and coastal ecosystems some of which are
internationally recognized within the framework of the Man and the Biosphere Programme of
UNESCO. These Reserves are required to meet a minimal set of criteria and adhere to a
minimal set of conditions before being admitted to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
The Network is devoted to conserving biological diversity, promoting research and
monitoring as well as seeking to provide models of sustainable development in the service of
human kind with special reference to the local communities which mostly consist of
traditional societies. It is a pioneering effort at pursuing the increasingly difficult yet urgent
task of conserving ecological diversity under mounting pressures.
The programme was initiated in 1986 and till date 18 sites have been designated
nationally as Biosphere Reserves (BRs). Out of these, so far 09 have been included in the
World Network of Biosphere Reserves of UNESCO viz., Nilgiri (Tamil Nadu, Kerala and
Karnataka), Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu), Sunderban (West Bengal), Nanda Devi,
(Uttarakhand), Pachmarhi (Madhya Pradesh), Similipal (Odisha), Nokrek (Meghalaya),
Achanakmar-Amarkantak (Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh) and Great Nicobar.
The Ministry through the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Biosphere Reserve
provides 100% financial assistance to the State/UT Government concerned for conservation
and management of the designated Biosphere Reserves. The Indian National Man and
Biosphere (MAB) Committee is the apex body to oversee the programme, provide policy
guidelines and review the programme.
Progress/Achievements
CBD, a key agreement with near universal membership with 193 countries as its
Parties, including India, was adopted during the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992.
It is the first comprehensive global agreement which addresses all aspects relating to
15
biodiversity. It sets out commitments for maintaining the world's ecological underpinnings
while pursuing economic development. It reaffirms sovereign rights of nations over their
biological resources, and establishes three main goals: the conservation of biological
diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of the
benefits arising out of the use of genetic resources.
The main activities undertaken include the following:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
Progress/ Achievements
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
16
Taking cognizance of CBD, and to address the excessive pressure on biodiversity, the
Government of India has enacted Biological Diversity Act, 2002 (BDA 2002). National, State
and local level mechanisms have been provided for implementation of the Act. At the national
level, National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) was established by Government of India on 1
October 2003 at Chennai (Tamil Nadu) under Section (8) of the Act.
Following their establishment in Bihar, Maharashtra and Jammu & Kashmir, State
Biodiversity Boards (SBBs) have now been established by all State Governments.Seventeen
States viz. Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya
Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Odisha, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura,
Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal have notified the State-specific rules in accordance with the
Section 63(1) of the Act.
In accordance with Section 41 and Rules 22, every local body shall constitute a BMC
within its area of jurisdiction. The BMC as constituted under sub-rule (1) shall consist of a
Chairperson and not more than six persons nominated by the local body of whom not less
than one third should be women and not less than 18% should belong to the Scheduled
Castes/ Scheduled Tribes. The process for benefit sharing with the BMC, Self-Help Groups
etc., accruing from accessed bio-resources is being firmed up.So far, 33,353BMCs have been
constituted by the local bodies in 26 States.
The main activities centered onconsidering appropriate amendments to the Act and
Rules for enhanced conservation of biodiversity in India, and implementation of various
extant provisions, such as conservation of Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS), conservation
17
(i)
18
meetings were held, and a set of 12 Draft National Biodiversity Targets has
been developed. Prototype for developing National Clearing House Mechanism
has been prepared aimed at providing effective information services to
facilitate the implementation of NBSAP.
(xii) Assisting the States in notifying threatened species in their areas of jurisdiction.
So far the species which are on the verge of extinction have been notified in 15
States and 1 UT (A&N Islands).
(xiii) So far, four BHS sites have been notified in the State of Karnataka. Twelve
SBBs have identified another 123 sites for declaring as BHS.
(xiv) Facilitating projects related to digitations of biodiversity-related data.
Designing/ implementing the Indian Biodiversity Information System (IBIS).
(xv) Undertaking/ facilitating projects related to biodiversity conservation such as
INBIF, The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB), etc.
(xvi) Increasing awareness through a number of communication and outreach
activities. Educational materials were developed in regional languages such as
Telugu, Bengali, Gujarati and Hindi.
(xvii) Three capacity-building initiatives were undertaken: (a) a programme on
Strengthening the implementation of Biological Diversity Act, 2002, leading
to establishment of robust ABS mechanism at Local Body Level was
organized by SBB Gujarat in May 2013; (b) an interactive meeting on
Strengthening Implementation of BD Act & ABS " was organized by SBB
Himachal Pradesh in July 2013; and (c) a Panel discussion on Gap analysis
on Policy Issues and Awareness for Implementation of ABS Provisions within
the BD Act was organized by SBB West Bengal in July 2013.
(xviii) During the year, four meetings of the Authority were held, and important
decisions were taken on different matters. For regulation of access of biological
resources, 78 applications were received during first half of the financial year,
which are at various stages of processing. Further, NBA placed 77 applications
(which includes applications received during previous years) before the Expert
Committee for examination, of which 14 were recommended for approval and
29 recommended for closure. Six agreements were entered during first half
year till 31 December 2013.
(xix) Acquiring 5.0 acres of land from State Government of Tamil Nadu for
constructing a building to house the NBA.
(xx) International Day for Biodiversity with the theme Water and Biodiversity was
celebrated on 2 May 2013. A poster on the theme was also released.
(xxi) Instituting awards for best performing SBB/ BMC/ biodiversity conservers;
breed savior award and such awards to recognize contributors who help in
implementing the Act effectively.
(c)
Under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the Rules for the Manufacture, Use,
Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms/Genetically Engineered Organisms
or Cells, 1989 (Rules, 1989) have been notified. The Rules also cover application of
hazardous microorganisms which may not be genetically modified, but include those which
are pathogenic to animals as well as plants.
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), the apex body under the
Rules, 1989 has the mandate to approve the large scale trials and environmental release of
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and ensure that research and development and
19
testing of GMOs prior to environment release are conducted in a safe and scientific manner
through appropriate implementation of Rule 1989 and biosafety guidelines.
Progress/ Achievements
(i)
GEAC has been reconstituted, which held one meeting on April, 2013.
Decision on GM crop field trials and holding of further meetings of GEAC
stand deferred in view of issues pending before the Honble Supreme Court.
(ii)
Phase-II of UNEP-GEF Capacity Building Project on Biosafety has
commenced; Project Coordination Unit (PCU) has been set up; Biotech
Consortium India Limited has been appointed; Consultants and Experts for
implementing various activities have been identified; Guidance document for
generation of biosafety data, environmental risk assessment guidelines,
strengthening pre- and post-release monitoring mechanism, notification of
accredited laboratories for LMO detection etc. have been initiated.
(iii) Two reports of Technical Expert Committee constituted by the Honble
Supreme Court have been received. The matter is also pending final decision of
the Honble Supreme Court. Union of India is filing a counter affidavit in
respect of each of recommendations made in the two reports of TEC.
(iv)
Cabinet Note for Ratification of the Nagoya Kuala Lumpur Supplementary
Protocol on Liability and Redress has been circulated to all Ministries/
Departments concerned. Comments from a few are awaited.
(v)
Development of biology documents in respect of 8 crops (chickpea, pigeon
pea, sorghum, papaya, mustard, tomato, rubber and potato) is in progress.
(vi)
Development of the State-of-Art GEAC website has been completed. Audit of
the website by NIC has been completed and is ready for launching.
(vii) Indian delegation attended Asia Regional National Project Coordinators
Meeting of UNEP held from 1-5 July 2013 at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to discuss
experience and challenges faced in execution of UNEP-GEF biosafety project.
(viii) South Asia Biosafety Conference was convened jointly with DBT and SABP
during 18-20 September 2013. India participated in the ASIA BCH Workshop
in Siem Reap, Cambodia from 18-20 November 2013 organized by Korea
Biosafety Clearing House (KBCH) in partnership with UNEP.
(ix)
India chaired the online and regional real time conferences on socio economic
considerations for Asia-Pacific.
(d)
CPB has come into force on 11 September 2003. The Conference of Parties serving as
the Meeting of Parties to the Protocol (COP-MOP) currently meets every two years in
conjunction with the regular meetings of the Conference of Parties (COP) to the CBD. Six
meetings of the COP-MOP have been held so far. The Sixth meeting of COP-MOP hosted by
India from 1-5 October 2012 at Hyderabad provided India with an opportunity to consolidate,
scale-up and showcase our initiatives and strengths on biosafety. The Seventh meeting of
COP-MOP is scheduled in South Korea in October 2014.
As a follow-up to COP-MOP decisions taken so far, several initiatives including
capacity building and awareness programs to facilitate compliance have been undertaken. In
compliance with the reporting requirements, India has submitted its first and second National
Reports on implementation of CPB, which were finalized following a consultative approach.
Several consultative meetings of experts and stakeholders have also been convened prior to
each COP-MOP meeting to finalize the country position and negotiating briefs. During 2013,
20
Indian experts participated in online discussion forum and other preparation meetings on
various thematic areas pertaining to COP-MOP-7 agenda. Consultations for preparing the
country positions are scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2014.
(e)
21
existing botanic gardens for improvement of their infrastructural facilities to facilitate ex-situ
conservation of rare and endemic plants. The achievements made in these botanic gardens are
periodically monitored with the help of BSI, which also helps in identification of rare endemic
plants requiring priority attention for ex-situ conservation.
Comprehensive guidelines have been issued in May 2013 outlining the goals and
objectives; need for lead gardens in different phytogeographic zones, terms and conditions,
and role of State and Central Governments, besides promoting education awareness, ex-situ
conservation and reintroduction of rare plants in natural habitats.
Under the new guidelines for financial assistance, the process of scrutiny of proposals
has become more objective resulting initially into higher rate of revision/rejection. Under the
scheme, 268 projects have been supported so far to various organizations maintaining botanic
gardens and Centres of ex-situ conservation. In 2013, 50 threatened plant species were taken
up for ex-situ conservation. 16Botanical Gardens were supported, which included one Lead
Garden. Infrastructure strengthening of 12 existing Botanical Gardens was taken up, including
designations of 4 lead gardens.
3.2.
Forest Conservation
The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 came into effect from 25 October 1980 and
provides for prior approval of the Central Government for diversion of forest lands for nonforestry purposes. Its objective is to regulate diversion of forest lands for non-forestry uses
and to maintain balance between developmental needs and conservation of natural heritage.
Guidelines are issued under the Act from time to time, to simplify the procedures, to cut down
delays and to make the process transparent.
Heads of Regional Offices of the Ministry at Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar,
Lucknow, Shillong and Chandigarh are empowered to grant approvals under the Act for
diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes up to 5 hectare in each case (except for
mining and regularization of encroachments) and to process and make recommendations to
the Ministry in cases between 5 hectare and 40 hectare in consultation with the State Advisory
Committee. Proposals involving areas more than 40 ha are to be submitted by the State
Governments to the Ministry, and they are examined by the Forest Advisory Committee
(FAC), constituted under the Act,which meets once a month. In the cases where area involved
is more than 100 ha, a site inspection by Regional Office is mandatory before the proposal is
examined by FAC. The Ministry takes the final decision on diversion proposals stipulating
appropriate mitigation measures keeping in view the recommendations of FAC.
In 2013, a total of 1,007 proposals were received, of which 645 involving about
17,253 ha. forest land have been approved or granted in-principle approval. 8 proposals were
closed/ rejected, while 94 are pending consideration with State Governments concerned.
To mitigate impacts of diversion of forest land on ecology, environment, biodiversity
and overall forest cover, the Central Government while according approvals under the Act
stipulates appropriate conditions. In addition to the requirement that User Agency provides
land in compensation at prescribed scales, it is also incumbent on them to provide
compensatory levies for Afforestation (Compensatory/ Additional Compensatory/ Penal
Compensatory)/ Treatment (Safety Zone/ Catchment Area)/ Net Present Value of forest land
diverted. Forest area which are notified as part of national parks/ sanctuaries are allowed to
be diverted only with express approval of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India, and the User
Agency is required to pay 5 times/ 10 times of Net Present Value of the forest land diverted.
22
23
submitted to the Ministry by States, which after scrutiny by the Screening Committee, are
approved for implementation. A greater emphasis is being laid on States identifying gaps in
their efforts in forest protection. This is expected to improve the impact of the scheme in
fulfilling its mandate. In order to promote transparency, GPS co-ordinates of all infrastructure
works financed in this scheme have been made mandatory. Details of the allotment and
expenditure together with the Annual Work Plan are also being put on the Ministrys web site.
The major components of the scheme include:
(i)
Forest fire control and management.
(ii)
Strengthening of Infrastructure.
(iii)
Survey, Demarcation and Working Plan preparation.
(iv)
Protection and Conservation of Sacred Groves.
(v)
Conservation and Restoration of Unique Vegetation & Ecosystems.
(vi)
Control and Eradication of Forest Invasive Species.
(vii) Preparedness for Meeting Challenges of Bamboo Flowering and Improving
Management of Bamboo Forests.
The Scheme is also being monitored at the level of Centre and States. Principal Chief
Conservator is responsible of the implementation as well as monitoring of the Scheme at the
States level. Fresh instructions have been issued regarding monitoring of the Scheme at their
level. A third party has been initiated to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the
Scheme and suggest change to increase the effectiveness of the Scheme. During 2013-14 as
on 31 December 2013, status with regard to three major montitorable targets is as follows:
(i)
Creation and Maintenance of fire lines (kms.): 49,874.50 km (target 68,000 km)
(ii)
Construction of Boundary pillars (Nos.): 38,905 (target 78,000)
(iii) Construction of Building for frontline staff (Nos.): 279 (target 600)
Overall, the scheme has helped the State/UT Forest Departments in modernizing the
forestry sector by way of creating infrastructure such as field offices, forest stations,
residential facilities for frontline staff; construction of roads and patrolling paths; introduction
of modern technology including use of PDA for field surveillance and reporting; providing
field vehicles, arms and ammunitions. Introduction of advanced technology helped in bridging
the backlog in preparation of working plans. Forest fire control has become progressively
effective by way of creation and maintenance of firelines for prevention of forest fires, early
detection, reporting and quick mobilization of force for forest fire control. Modern technology
has also helped in improving planning for forest fire control and management. This scheme
has also provided incentives for involvement of local people through Joint Forest
Management Committees in forest protection. There are 2,74,134 JFMCs managing
671,42,757 mha involving 38,62,811 people of forest area.
3.2.3. Forest Policy
Forest Policy Division coordinates all aspects of the National Forest Policy, 1988,
including its implementation issues;the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and policy and legislative
issues of other Central Ministries/ Departments related to forests and Scheduled Tribes,
besides coordinating the State Forest Policies, State Forest Acts/Amendment etc. It liaises
with Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Planning Commission on the
matters related to various Acts and Policies. It is the nodal Division for Forestry in relation to
Climate Change and REDD+ Cell. It also acts as a National Focal Point on international
cooperation in forestry.
In 2013, some major activities coordinated were as follows:
24
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
3.3.
Wildlife Conservation
Government of India provides technical and financial support to States/ UTs for
wildlife conservation under some Centrally Sponsored Schemes: (i) Integrated Development
of Wildlife Habitats, (ii) Project Elephant, and (iii) Project Tiger, and also through Central
Sector Schemes: (i) Strengthening of Wildlife Division and Consultancies for Special Tasks,
and (ii) Grants-in-Aid to Central Zoo Authority and Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun.
3.3.1. Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats
The scheme has the following components: (i) Support to Protected Areas (National
Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves); (ii) Protection
of Wildlife Outside Protected Areas; and (iii) Recovery programmes for saving critically
endangered species and habitats.
At present, India has a network of 670 Protected Areas (102 National Parks, 517
Wildlife Sanctuaries, 47 Conservation Reserves and 4 Community Reserves). During the XII
Five Year Plan, the total outlay for the Scheme is 800.00 crore, of which 74.62 crore was
spent in 2012-13 and another 55.17 crore during 2013-14 by 31 December 2013.Activities
covered under the Scheme are as follows:
(i)
Management Planning and capacity building
Strengthening wildlife research, educationand nature awareness
Staff development and capacity building
Monitoring and evaluation
Management Planning
(ii)
Anti-poaching & infrastructure development
25
(iii)
(iv)
Anti-poaching activities
Strengthening of infrastructure
Strengthening Wildlife veterinary care
Strengthening Staff welfare activities
Restoration of habitats
Habitat improvement activities
Safeguards / Retrofitting measures
Eco-development and community oriented activities
Addressing man-animal conflict
Strengthening co-existence agenda
Deciding inviolate spaces and relocation of villages from crucial wildlife
habitats
Fostering ecotourism
Assistance to activities in Trans-boundary Protected Areas
In 2013, financial assistance was released to 335 PAs, and support to four endangered
species viz, Snow Leopard, Swiftlets, Dugong and Wild Buffalo under the Recovery
Programme.
3.3.2. Project Elephant
Project Elephant was launched in 1991-92 as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, and now
has the following objectives:
(i)
To conserve and protect viable population of wild elephants in their natural
habitats in the country;
(ii)
To conserve and protect and, where necessary, to restore natural habitats and
traditional corridors/migratory routes or movement paths used by the elephants,
through eco-restoration, acquisition etc;
(iii) To take concrete measures to protect elephants from poaching and other threats
by taking suitable measures like deployment of patrolling squads, intelligence
gathering etc;
(iv)
To create a viable mechanism to ensure inter-state and regional and national
level coordination in protecting and conserving the elephant and its ranges;
(v)
To create infrastructure and other facilities for conservation support activities
like veterinary care, management training, humane methods of capture,
tranquilizing and translocation etc of wild elephants, as and when required;
(vi)
To improve and create infrastructure for the welfare of elephants in domestic
use, including their veterinary care, training of mahouts and supervisory staff
in proper treatment of elephants in captivity;
(vii) To encourage and create facilities for research related to the management and
ecology of elephant, and also with respect to its veterinary care;
(viii) To take appropriate steps to mitigate man-elephant conflict through suitable
measures, such as eco-development, public education and awareness
programmes, scientific management, ex-gratia payments, deployment of antidepredation teams etc.
(ix)
To take measures for detection and prevention of diseases in wild elephants.
Financial and technical support is being provided to major elephant bearing States,
with 100% financial assistance to the State concerned for undertaking various activities for
26
27
covering an area of 54,659.616sq. kms. In-principle approval for creation of four new Tiger
Reserves has also been accorded, based on viable spatial occupancy of tiger, as determined in
the recent All India Tiger estimation.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay for the Scheme is 1,245.00 crore, of
which 163.87 crore was spent in 2012-13 and another 170.88 crore during 2013-14 by 31
December 2013. In 2013,funding support was extended for protection and development of
Tiger Reserves in 43 tiger reserves in 17 States,and also for relocation of 490 families from
tiger reserves including payment of compensation for extinguishing their rights on forest land.
3.3.4. Strengthening of Wildlife Division and Consultancies for Special Tasks
The Scheme "Control of Wildlife Crime" was started in 1986 for supporting activities
like strengthening of Central Wildlife Division and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, a multidisciplinary organization constituted by the Government under Section 38(Y) of the Wild Life
(Protection) Act, 1972, on 6 June 2007. The Bureau has its Headquarter in New Delhi. It has 5
Regional Offices (Chennai, Delhi, Jabalpur, Kolkata, and Mumbai), 3 Sub-Regional Offices
(Amritsar, Kochi, and Guwahati), and 5 Border Units (Gorakhpur,Moreh, Motihari,Nathula,
and Ramanathapuram). The powers and functions of the Bureau have been defined under
section 38z of the Act. The Regional Deputy Directors are Assistant Management Authorities
under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora
(CITES) and these offices assist Customs authorities in CITES enforcement and legal trade.
The objectives of the Scheme are:
To strengthen the Central Wildlife Organization by creating additional posts.
To strengthen the existing Regional Offices and opening of new Regional Offices
for better enforcement of Wild Life (Protection) Act,and CITES.
To award consultancies for Special Tasks.
To provide for Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Conservation Award and Amrita Devi
Bishnoi Wildlife Protection Award.
To provide for Dr. Salim Ali and Dr. Kailash Sankhla National Fellowship Awards.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay for the Scheme is 70.00 crore, of
which 5.48 crore was spent in 2012-13 and another 4.45 crore during 2013-14 by 31
December 2013. In the activities undertaken in 2013, special focus is sought to be given to the
strengthening of the Bureau with a view to setting up 2 new Regional Offices, 52 field units
and a Wildlife Forensic Laboratory and a Training Centre for capacity building of field staff
in enforcing wildlife laws. Three ongoing research projects were supported.Standing Finance
CommitteeMeeting for Strengthening of Wildlife Crime Control Bureau was held, which
recommended additional 113 posts in the Bureau.However, the matter has been taken up with
Finance Wing to vacate the ban of creation of new posts.
3.3.5. Central Zoo Authority (CZA)
CZA, with its headquarters in New Delhi, was established in 1992 under the
provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to oversee the functioning of zoos in the
country, including the development of the National Zoological Park at New Delhi, with the
view to enhance their role in conservation. Its main objective is to enforce minimum standards
and norms for housing, upkeep and veterinary care of the animals kept in zoos. It also
identifies endangered species of wild animals for purposes of captive breeding and assigns
responsibility in this regard to a zoo. It also provides technical and other assistance to zoos for
their proper management and development on scientific lines.
28
CZA is a twelve-Member body, with the Minister of Environment & Forests as the exofficio Chairperson. For carrying out its functions, the Administrative Committee under the
chairpersonship of Director General of Forests & Special Secretary, and the Technical
Committee under the chairpersonship of the Additional Director General of Forests
(Wildlife), and an Expert Group on Zoo Designing, have been formed for advising the
Authority on improvement of the zoos.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay for the Scheme is 220.00 crore, of
which 21.25 crore was spent in 2012-13 and another 25.84 crore during 2013-14 by 31
December 2013. In the activities undertaken in 2013, 07 Zoos; 06 Rescue Centres; and 16 Ongoing Research Projects were supported financially. Three new Research Projects were
initiated, and training was imparted to 240 zoo personnel.
3.3.6. Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun
WII, established in 1982 under the Ministry, was granted autonomous status by the
Government in 1986. The Institute has emerged as a premier training and research institution
in the field of wildlife and protected area management in South and South East Asia. Its
mandate is to generate quality information and knowledge products in wildlife science and
mainstream it in capacity building programmes for various target groups and provide advisory
support to Central and State Governments.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay for the Scheme is 120.00 crore, of
which 18.28 crore was spent in 2012-13 and another 14.22 crore during 2013-14 by 31
December 2013. Major activities in 2013 were:(i) 20 officers underwent advanced PG
Diploma course which concluded on 30 June 2013, and 20 officers are presently undergoing
training in this course, which will conclude in June 2014; (ii) 20 officers are undergoing in
Training in Certificate Course in Wildlife Management; (iii) 13 students completed M.Sc. in
June 2013 and another batch of 14 students will conclude it in June 2014; and (iv) ongoing 13
Research Projects and 03 new Research Projects will be completed during 2013-14.
3.3.7. National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)
NBWL, constituted as per the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, in
2003, is chaired by the Honble Prime Minister and has 47 members including Members of
Parliament, Chief of the Army Staff, Member, Planning Commission, representatives of
NGOs, eminent environmentalists/ conservationists/ecologists and other official members. It
is reconstituted every three years, with its last constitution done on 4thSeptember 2010. Till
date five meetings of this Board have been convened since its constitution.
The Board functions to promote conservation and development of wildlife and forests
and framing of policies. It advises Central and State Governments on ways and means of
promoting wild life conservation and effectively controlling poaching and illegal trade of wild
life and its products.Its further powers and functions are as follows:
Setting up, and management, of national parks, sanctuaries and other PAs.
Matters relating to restriction of activities on wildlife and its habitat.
Impact assessments of projects/ activities in areas inhabited by wildlife.
Preparing status reports.
The Chief Wild Life Warden may issue a permit to a person to remove wildlife
from a National Park, divert the habitat of any wild animal or stop or enhance the
flow of water into or outside the park only if the State Government authorizes the
29
issue of such permit in consultation with NBWL, if it believes that such removal of
wildlife from the sanctuary or the diversion of flow of water is necessary for the
improvement and better management of wildlife.
Board may constitute a Standing Committee and sub-committees or study groups as
may be necessary, from time to time, and may assign duties and functions to it.
Recommend alteration of boundaries of a sanctuary/ National Park to the State
Government. No alteration of boundaries of a tiger reserve can be made except on
recommendation of NTCA and NBWL.
No State Government shall de-notify a tiger reserve, except in public interest with
the approval of NTCA and NBWL.
Approve or disapprove of construction of commercial tourist lodges, hotels, zoos,
safari parks inside a sanctuary/ National Park by the Chief Wild Life Warden.
Animal Welfare
The broad objective of activities relating to animal welfare is to prevent the infliction
of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals, through the implementation of the provisions of
the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.The Animal Welfare Plan Scheme is in
operation for implementation of the statutory obligations under this Act. Two statutory bodies
viz, Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) and Committee for the Purpose of Supervision
and Control of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA) have also been set up under this Act.
Under this Act, a number of Rules have also been framed, including the following:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
30
assisted under AWBI Plan; (b) 15 AWOs were funded, including for construction of 8
Shelter Houses, under Provision of Shelter Houses for Animals; (c) 47,430 cases were
approved under Animal Birth Control and Immunization of Stray Dogs; (d) 32 ambulances
were funded under Provision of Ambulance Services to Animals in Distress; (e) 03 AWOs,
47 Registrations, and 55 Renewals were approved under Relief to Animals during Natural
Calamities and Unforeseen Circumstances; (f) 02 Animal Houses were funded under
CPCSEA; and (g) 23 courses ofNational Institute of Animal Welfare were funded.
IV.
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
31
(vi)
32
lease area equals or exceeds 25 ha, the activity will become Category B1
project, and cluster will require EIA/EMP and public hearing as per EIA
Notification, 2006.
(d) In the case of river sand-mining project, with mine lease area less than 5
ha, authority (SEIAA/SEAC) concerned should not consider granting EC.
(e) River sand-mining projects with mining lease area more than 5 ha would
be categorized as B2 and appraised based on Form-1, Pre-feasibility
Report, Mining Plan approved by authorized agency of State
Governmentconcerned. Besides, mining activity will be done manually;
maximum permissible depth of mining will be 3 mtr. below the water
level; mining in areas close to embankments/ bridges can be undertaken
only after a safety zone is worked out; no in-stream mining will be
permitted; developers have to provide replenishment plans. Their EC will
be valid for maximum period of five years.
(f) Projects (like small thermal power, mineral beneficiation, metallurgical,
cement, chlor-alkali, leather/skin/hide processing, chemical fertilizers,
manmade fiber manufacturing, aerial roadways, etc.) have also been recategorized as B2. All thermal power plants based on coal/lignite/naphtha
and gas of capacity < 5 MW are categorized as B2, requiring no EIA and
public hearing. Similarly, mineral beneficiation activity with throughput <
20,000 TPA involving only physical beneficiation, are categorized as B2.
All non-toxic secondary metallurgical processing industries involving
operation of furnaces only (such as induction and electric arc furnaces,
submerged arc furnaces and cupola) with capacity 30,000 <TPA <60,000
located within notified industrial estates are categorized in B2 requiring
no EIA and public hearing.
(xiii) As per EIA Notification, 2006, public hearing can be exempted for expansion
of projects under its Clause 7(ii) subject to certain conditions. Public hearing
for capacity expansion proposals of existing coal mining projects, which have
obtained EC and which are for one-time capacity expansion of up to 25%,
within existing mine lease area, has been exempted (O.M. dated 19.12.2012).
But now, as per revised guidelines (07.01.2014), expansion proposals of
existing coal mining projects having production capacity up to 8 MTPA as per
EC letter, the limit of one time capacity expansion may be considered as 50%
or incremental production upto 1 MTPA, whichever is more, in the existing
mining operation, within the existing mine lease area for exempting public
hearing under Clause 7(ii). If the production capacity of coal mining projects
is more than 8 MTPA, O.M. dated 19.12.2012 will continue to apply in toto.
Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2011
Ministry has issued the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2011 in supersession of
Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991 after a series of consultations with the various
stakeholders, including the fishermen community. Its objective is to ensure livelihood security
to fishing and other local communities living in coastal areas, to conserve/ protect coastal
stretches and to promote development based on scientific principles.
Performance/ Achievements
In 2013, several meetings of the Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs) were convened
for appraisal of Category A projects from sectors of industry, thermal power, infrastructure,
33
river valley and mining. As part of appraisal process, wherever required, EACs also visited
project sites for first hand information about the ground level realities and response of people
living in the vicinity. EC was accorded to 256 projects (April 2013 to December 2013), the
sector-wise distribution of which is as below:
Industry (81)
Coal Mining (17)
Thermal (07)
Non-Coal Mining (75)
River Valley and Hydroelectric (06)
Nuclear, Defence & Strategic Projects (02)
CRZ, Infrastructure, Construction, Industrial Estates (68)
Post-Project Monitoring of Environment Clearance Conditions
The objectives of Post-Project Clearance Monitoring are (i) to ensure that actions have
been taken to incorporate the environmental safeguards during the project cycle in accordance
with the conditions stipulated in EC letter; and (ii) to take appropriate corrective measures to
check adverse impact on environment during operation of the respective projects.
Monitoring of projects with respect to conditions stipulated in EC issued under EIA
Notification, 2006 and Coastal Regulation Zone, 2011 is carried out through the six Regional
Offices as per policy guidelines of the Monitoring Cell in the Ministry. On the basis if
scrutiny of the Monitoring Report by the Monitoring Cell, appropriate action is contemplated
under EPA, 1986, for violation of EC conditions. In cases of major non-compliance further
follow up action is taken for effecting compliance, including issue of show cause notice
followed by directions on case to case basis.
Till December 2013, 796 projects were monitored. Based on observations made during
field visits, necessary follow up action has been taken up with project proponents to ensure an
effective compliance withEC conditions.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay for the Plan Scheme on "Activities
under Environmental Impact Assessment" is 30.00 crore, of which 3.15 crore was spent in
2012-13 and another 1.17 crore during 2013-14 by 31 December 2013.
Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project
In view of the livelihood security of coastal communities, the Ministry has initiated an
Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Project with World Bank assistance at an
outlay of about 1,153 crore. The Society of Integrated Coastal Management (SICOM), a
registered body, has been implementing the its four major components: (i) National Coastal
Management Programme, which has various sub-components, including mangrove
afforestation, coral restoration, shoreline protection, hazard mitigation, and alternative
livelihood; and (ii) three ICZM projects in three States (Gujarat, Odisha and West Bengal).
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay for the Scheme is 500.00 crore, of
which 25.00 crore was spent in 2012-13 and another 75.00 crore during 2013-14 by 31
December 2013. The major activities taken up in 2013-14 were: (i)(a)Mapping, delineation
and demarcation of hazard lines; (i)(b) Delineation of coastal sediment cells for the entire
coast of India; (i)(c) Mapping,delineation and demarcation of Ecological Sensitive
Areas(ESAs); (ii)(a) Establishing the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management;
(ii)(b) Capacity building measures; (iii)Capacity development and pilot investment in SPMUGujarat; (iv)Capacity development and pilot investment in SPMU-Odisha; and (v)Capacity
development and pilot investment in SPMU-West Bengal.
V.
34
Abatement of Pollution
The concern for environmental quality has heightened in the present scenario of rising
population, increasing urbanization, industrial pollution, shipping, aviation and vehicular
emission as well as pollution of water resourses due to discharge of industrial effluents and
sewage without conforming to the environmental norms and standards apart from agriculture
run-off. The Government had adopted the Policy for Abatement of Pollution in 1992, which
provides multi-pronged strategies in the form of regulations, legislations, agreements, fiscal
incentives and other measures, to prevent and abate pollutionin various environmental media
like air, water, soil, etc. The Government also adopted the National Conservation Strategy and
Policy Statement on Environment and Development, 1992. These were followed by the
National Environment Policy (NEP-2006) which seeks to extend the coverage, and fill in gaps
that still existed, in light of extant knowledge and accumulated experience, laying emphasis
on a number of new issues.
5.1.
CPCB performs functions as laid down under the Water (Prevention & Control of
Pollution) Act, 1974, and The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. CPCB
plays a vital role in abatement and control of pollution by generating environmental quality
data, providing scientific information, rendering technical inputs for formulating national
policies and programmes, training and development of manpower and organizing activities
for promoting awareness at different levels of Government and public at large. It also
provides support to various committees and authorities constituted by the Government, such
as the Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority for the National Capital
Region.It co-ordinates activities under the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Cess
Act, 1977 and also enforcement and implementation of Rules framed under EPA, 1986 with
SPCBs/ PCCs. Its functions broadly include:
(i)
35
25.50 crore was spent in 2012-13 and another 43.29 crore during 2013-14 by 31 December
2013. The Annual Action Plan (Work Plan) for 2013-14 laid emphasis on strengthening
environmental monitoring network, carrying out random checks of industries for compliance
verification, review of existing standards and development of new standards and inventory of
wastes. Capacity development of SPCBs/ PCCs, through trainings and organizing/
participation in mass awareness programmes continued into 2013-14. Specific attention is
being given to strengthening of existing Zonal Offices and opening of two new Zonal Offices
(at Chandigarh and Chennai).
Performance/ Achievements
(i)
36
Assessment of Pollution:
National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP): Operated 571
Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (AAQMS) covering 238 cities/
towns. Twenty Six (26) AAQMS added.
Operated 15 Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations
(CAAQMS) in 4 cities. Another 14 CAAQMS were set-up in major cities
on 50:50 cost sharing basis.
Ambient Dioxin/ Furan monitoring undertaken during pre-Deepawali,
Deepawali and post-Deepawali periods at two locations in Delhi.
Installed ten (10) Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring Stations
(RTWQMS) on river Ganga and Yamuna.
National Water Quality Monitoring Programme: Water samples analysed
for 9 core and 19 general parameters, and also trace metals at few locations.
(a) Operated Water Quality Monitoring (WQM) at 2,500 stations
covering 445 rivers, 154 lakes, 12 tanks, 78 ponds, 41 sea water, 45
drains, 10 water treatment plants and 807 wells.
(b) Presently the inland water quality-monitoring network is operated
under a three-tier programme i.e. Global Environmental Monitoring
System (GEMS), Monitoring of Indian National Aquatic Resources
System (MINARS) and Yamuna Action Plan (YAP).
Water quality-monitoring program at the river stretch of Interstate
Boundaries since 2005: Monitoring is carried out 4 times a year at 82
locations spread over 40 rivers. It was observed that in 26 rivers at 40
locations the water was polluted due to high Bio-Chemical Oxygen Demand
(BOD), one of the most important indicators of water quality.
The entire stretch of River Ganga from Haridwar to Tarighat has been
designated as conforming to category B, which implies that water quality
should be fit for bathing, swimming, water contact sports etc.
Monitoring during Mahakumbh 2013 at Allahabad: Water quality of River
Ganga observed at Sangam, Allahabad during the Mahakumbh improved
with respect to color and BOD, indicating organic load on river Ganga had
reduced mainly due to (a) measures taken by local Government at different
levels; (b) order of the Honble High Court of Allahabad for release of more
than 2,500 cusec water from Narora Barrage to Ganga from time to time
during Mahakumbh; (c) pre-emptive approach for enforcement followed by
the CPCB/ SPCBs in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand to restrict industrial
discharge into River Ganga through strict vigil over the industrial activities;
and (d) before the Mahakumbh period all the distilleries and tanneries in
upper reaches of River Ganga were directed to either achieve zero discharge
5.2.
(ii)
(iii)
Waste Management:
Trial run for disposal of waste of Union Carbide is under progress at
Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh.
Guidelines for Management and Handling of Phosphorus waste are under
preparation.
Inspections of Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs),
Common Bio-Medical Waste Treatment Facilities (CBMWTFs) and
Secured Landfill Facilities (SLFs) carried out.
Report prepared for Study on Life Cycle Assessment of Plastic Products.
Report finalised for Study on Quantification and Characterization of Plastic
Waste in 60 major cities in India.
Prepared and presented Status Report on implementation of Plastic Waste
(Management & Handling) Rules, 2011 to the Honble Supreme Court.
Uploaded Report on performance study of Plasma Pyrolysis Technology for
Disposal of Plastic Waste on CPCBs website.
(iv)
37
goods and production processes, rather than treating the waste after generation. In general,
clean technologies are less intensive in use of raw materials and energy than conventional
technologies, which rely on pollution abatement after generation. For this reason, they may
also offer significant cost advantages to the producer. A grant-in-aid Scheme on Development
and Promotion of Clean Technologies was initiated in 1994 with the following objectives:
Development & Promotion of Cleaner Technologies.
Development of Tools and Techniques for Pollution Prevention.
Formulation of Sustainable Development Strategies.
Important activities undertaken in 2013-14 included:
38
(i)
Demonstration projects.
Three cleaner technologies have been developed in collaboration with the
research institutions: (i) Derivation of engine fuel from waste plastics and its
performance evaluation by Annamalai University; (ii) Development of Fly
Ash-based Geopolymer Concrete Pre-cast elements by Annamalai
University; and(iii) Effective removal of arsenic from groundwater by
Central Salt and Marine Research Institute.
25 demonstration projects continued during the period and their progress
was monitored through Monitoring Committees, which held seven
meetings, followed by workshops and field visits. 10 projects are likely to
be completed in the current year.
Seven meetings of the Progress Review Committee were organized on the
site to monitor the progress of the projects.
Scheme was widely publicized through leading national newspapers as well
as Ministry's website to obtain project proposals in a transparent manner.
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(b)
The policy statement on abatement of pollution of 1992 of the Ministry lays emphasis
on preventive aspects of pollution abatement and promotion of technical inputs to reduce
industrial pollution. Asimple preventive strategy is waste minimization in production
processes aimed at optimizing consumption of raw materials and reducing waste generation
by adopting techniques which are cleaner and can be adopted by existing units without
changing production processes or unit operations.The objectives of thisScheme are:
To assist (but not through procurement of equipment and hardware)primary small
units and some medium scale units who do not have access to requisite technical
expertise to achieve waste minimization.
Establishing and running Waste Minimization Circles (WMCs) in clusters of Small
and Medium Industries.
Capacity building in Waste Minimization/Cleaner Production through training.
Waste Minimization demonstration studies in selected industrial sectors.
Preparation of sector specific technical manuals on waste reduction, reuse and
recycling.
Awareness programs and preparation of compendium of success stories on cleaner
production/waste minimization.
The following important activities were undertaken in 2013-14:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
39
includes Policy & Law and Environmental Health Cell) financial assistance has been
extended to six SPCBs/ UT PCCs during the current financial year.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 60.00 crore, of which 4.04 crore
was spent in 2012-13 and another 0.93 crore during 2013-14 by 31 December 2013. Major
activities undertaken and achievements were:
5.4.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
40
(i)
(ii)
All three levels of treatment (primary, secondary and tertiary) covered for
assistance. Progressive technologies like Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) will
also be considered for assistance, subject to a ceiling.
(iii)
(iv)
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 100.00 crore, of which 4.20 crore
was spent in 2012-13.
During 2013-14, an allocation of 2.70 crore in RE was made for providing financial
assistance to on-going CETP projects and for new projects, and assistance was provided to
CETPs at Pandesara (Gujarat) and Waluj (Maharashtra).
5.5.
The mandate for planning and overseeing implementation of policies and programs on
management of chemical emergencies and hazardous substances entails promoting safe
handling, management and use of hazardous substances (hazardous chemicals, hazardous and
other wastes), with activities in the following five major thrust areas:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
The World Bank has been reviewing the project, through Supervision Missions which
were held between April 4-7, 2011, October 14-28, 2011 and June 18-29, 2012. A mid-term
review is to be carried out after 3 years.
The Scheme has the following main objectives:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 186.00 crore, of which 24.63
crore was spent in 2012-13 and another 2.01 crore during 2013-14 by 31 December 2013.
The Budget Estimate (BE) for 2013-14 was 32.00 crore, and RE 1.00 crore in view of cut
of overall plan expenditure of the Ministry and progress of the project. It is expected that
expenditure on projects from both the States and MoEF would be about 1.00 crore. Major
activities undertaken and achievements were:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
42
43
44
The Ministry notified the draft Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) Rules,
2011 on 24.08.2011 inviting comments/suggestions from the public. These have been
compiled and analyzed in consultation with various stakeholders such as Ministry of Health
and Family Welfare, SPCBs/PCCs, representatives of Health Care Establishments, operators
of common biomedical waste treatment and storage facilitates and civil societies. The draft
Rules are being finalized and will be notified to supercede the 1998 Rules.
Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Management
The Ministry has notified the Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling)
Rules, 2000 for effective management of MSW management. The Rules,inter alia, provide
for criteria and procedure for MSW management by the municipal authority in the respective
area of its municipality. The Rules apply to every municipal authority, which are responsible
for collection, segregation, storage, transportation, processing and disposal of MSW.
A notification of the draft Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules,
2013 have been notified by the Ministry inviting objections and suggestions from the public.
The comments received are being analysed. The Rules will be finalised after a considered
analsis and will be notified to supercede the 2000 Rules.
Remediation of Contaminated Hazardous Waste Dump Sites
This Ministry has simultaneously initiated a project for Remediation of contaminated
Hazardous Waste Dump Sites under the National Clean Energy Fund. Twelve contaminated
areas have been identified as priority sites in the country. This supplements the work being
taken under the World Bank project.
VI.
6.1.
The National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) functioning under the Ministry
administers two Centrally Sponsored Schemes, namely the National River Conservation Plan
(NRCP) and National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Eco-Systems (NPCA).
National River Conservation Plan (NRCP)
The main objective of NRCP, which includes National Ganga River Basin Authority
(NGRBA), is to supplement the efforts of State Governments for improving water quality of
polluted stretches of rivers by preventing pollution loads reaching the rivers by undertaking
various pollution abatement works. The works include (i) interception and diversion works to
capture the raw sewage flowing into the river through open drains and divert them for
treatment, (ii) Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) for treating the diverted sewage, (iii) low cost
sanitation works to prevent open defecation on river banks, (iv) electric and improved woodbased crematoria to conserve use of wood and help in ensuring proper cremation of bodies
brought to burning ghats, (v) river front development such as improvement of bathing ghats,
and (vi) other minor miscellaneous works such as afforestation etc.
The NGRBA was established in 2009 under the chairpersonship of the Hon'ble Prime
Minister to take up the Mission Clean Ganga under a comprehensive basin-based approach. It
has been mandated as a planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating authority for
strengthening the collective efforts of the Central and State Governments for effective
abatement of pollution and conservation of River Ganga.
45
The works programme of NGRBA has been divided into two broad components:
Externally Aided Projects (EAP) and Non-Externally Aided Projects (Non-EAP) i.e. from
Government's own resources. The EAP component is presently comprised of World Bank
aided projects and JICA assisted program in Varanasi. The World Bank has also joined hands
with the Government of India since August 2011 by extending loan assistance of US $ 1
billion (IDA: $199 m, IBRD: $ 801 m) (about 4,600 crore) for the NGRBA Project having a
duration of 8 years. Under NGRBA, while the comprehensive basin management plan being
prepared will form the basis for project formulation, work on initial portfolio of priority
schemes has been initiated. A Standing Committee of NGRBA has been constituted, headed
by the Union Finance Minister to meet more frequently and review implementation.An
empowered Steering Committee headed by Secretary (Environment & Forests) has been set
up for fast track clearance of projects on the lines of JNNURM.
Major activities and achievements in 2013 were as follows:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
7.2.
47
NAEB Scheme
The major components of the Scheme are (i) Grants-in-Aid for Greening India
Scheme,(ii) Support to Regional Centres, (iii) Monitoring Evaluation, and (iv)
Communication. In terms of outcomes, usually, 5 years after sanction, new plantations would,
for each bio-geographic region, show the prescribed survival rates. 6 years to 12 years after
sanction, depending on the species, the new plantations would be revealed as either new area
under Forest/Tree Cover or enrichment of forest cover in Satellite Imagery.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 135.00 crore, of which 10.11
crore was spent in 2012-13, and another 7.02 crore in 2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013). Seven
Regional Centres were supported for carrying out research and extension works. Concurrent
evaluation of 34 FDA projects assigned to Regional Centres was carried out.
7.4.
EDF Scheme was initiated by Ministry of Defence in 1982 with a view to securing
involvement of ex-servicemen in afforestation and eco-development in remote and difficult
areas to undertake restoration of degraded ecosystems through afforestation, soil conservation
48
The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) outlines the strategy and
approach to be adopted to meet the challenge of the impact of climate change in India. It
includes institutionalization of eight National Missions including, inter alia, a National
Mission for a Green India or the Green India Mission (GIM).
The Ministry had drafted a comprehensive GIM document through a consultative
process involving relevant stakeholders, aimed at (a) increased forest/tree cover on 5 mha of
forest/non-forest lands and improved quality of forest cover on another 5 mha (a total of
10mha); (b) improved ecosystem services including biodiversity, hydrological services and
carbon sequestration as a result of treatment of 10mha; (c) increased forest-based livelihood
income of about 3 million households living in and around forests; and (d) enhanced annual
CO2 sequestration by 50 to 60 million tonnes in the year 2022.GIM envisages a holistic view
of greening and creating new forest cover using a landscape approach in which the
interventions at a scale of 4,000 to 6,000 ha is done at a time which is prioritized based on
criteria including climate vulnerability to achieve integrated actions on a scale, and focuses
on multiple ecosystem services, especially, biodiversity, water, biomass, etc., with carbon
sequestration as a co-benefit.Forest and non-forest areas are simultaneously treated and the
drivers of degradation are effectively addressed. It was approved by the Prime Ministers
Council on Climate Change on 22.02.2011.
The local communities will play a key role in project governance and
implementationwith a bottom-up participatory approach. It brings primacy to Gram Sabha as
an overarching institution to oversee Mission implementation at village level. Committees set
up by the Gram Sabha, including revamped JFMCs, CFM groups, Van Panchayats,
Committees set up under Forest Rights Act, Biodiversity Management Committees etc., will
be strengthened as the primary institutions on the ground for nested decentralized forest
governance in rural areas. It will invest in development of a cadre of community foresters
from amongst educated community youth, who will facilitate planning, implementation and
monitoring of activities at local level, thereby providing skilled employment opportunity to
about one lakh youths.
Several cross activities have been incorporated. To effectively address the livelihood
enhancement, a provision of 15-20 lakh for each village is envisaged. The wildlife corridors
will be indentified and an array of stakeholderswould serve to maintain the cover and also
seek rapid agency response in case of crop raiding. The Mission also strives to support the
community conserved area and protecting areas/catchments of hydrological importance.
In addition to on-ground self-monitoring by multiple agencies and communities and
audit by Government bodies, the Mission will support use of Geomatics (remote sensing with
49
GPS mapping of boundaries) for monitoring at output/outcome level. Pilot areas will be
intensively monitored to assess the impact and efficacy of various old and new practices, in
tandem by implementing agency, Forest Department, and a support organization. The Mission
will require that the Gram Sabha also carries out a social audit of all expenses incurred by the
Committees constituted by it,with placing of these reports in public domain.
EFC meeting held on 01.10.2013 has considered and recommended implementation of
the scheme with a proposed expenditure of 13,000 crore, consisting of additional funding of
2,400 crore and convergence of 10,600 crore with other Schemes including MGNREGS
and NAP during XIIPlan, and with an overlap of one year in XIII Plan. It provides funding of
2,000 crore under XII Plan outlay, along with 400 crore from XIII Finance Commission
Grants towards States share, for supporting a total of 1,130 landscapes. The draft CCEA Note
for the proposed National Mission for Green India Scheme is under consideration.
VIII. Research
8.1.
Environmental Research
51
user agencies for utilizing the outcome/ information generated in the completed projects
include Central Government Departments/Agencies, this Ministry and bodies under its
administrative purview such as FSI, ZSI, and BSI.Some mega projects undertaken and
completed under this programme include:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
Performance/ Achievements
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 26.00 crore, of which 4.71 crore
was spent in 2012-13, and another 0.91 crore in 2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013). In 2013-14 (as
on 31.12.2013), major activities and achievements included:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
52
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(i)
53
(ii)
(iii)
54
(iv)
8.2.
Forestry Research
55
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
Develop forestry extension programmes and propagate the same through mass
media, audio-visual aids and extension machinery.
Provide consultancy services in the field of forestry research, education and
allied sciences.
Undertake other jobs considered necessary to attain these objectives.
Performance/ Achievements
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 395.58 crore, of which 110.25
crore was spent in 2012-13, and another 105.16 crore in 2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013). In
2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013), major activities and achievements included:
(i)
XIV Research Policy Committee Meeting (RPC) held on 30-31 May 2013,
approved 76 new proposals ( 6.3123 crore) in four Research Thrust Areas.
(ii)
4th Meeting of National Steering Committee (NSC) of Sustainable Land and
Ecosystem Management (SLEM) Project held 4-5 April 2013, at Hyderabad,
with NSC, World Bank, UNDP, FAO, SLEM-TFO members, Project partners
SPACC and CARE, Soil and Land Use Survey (Ministry of Agriculture),
Institute of Forest Biodiversity, Desertification Cell (MoEF) and NGOs.
(iii) Seminar organised on 17 June 2013 to commemorate World Day to Combat
Desertification, and two flyers titled Rain water Harvesting and Augmentation
of Water Resources for Sustainable Land and Ecosystem Management and
'Rejuvenation of Gharats (Water Mills) for Sustainable Land and Ecosystem
Management in Uttarakhand were released.
(iv)
Executed the consultancy awarded by the State Government of Karnataka for
preparing Reclamation and Rehabilitation (R&R) Plan for 166 mines in
Bellary, Chitradurga and Tumkur districts. R&R Plans for 71 Mines of
Category A and B (based on illegalities) prepared and submitted to the Honble
Supreme Court of India through the Government of Karnataka. Out of these, 67
R&R plans have been approved by its Central Empowered Committee (CEC).
(v)
ICFRE: Vision 2040 prepared by ICFRE, which addresses Food Security and
Livelihood Support, Biodiversity Conservation and Ecological Security, Forest
Genetic Resource Management for Improving Productivity and Climate
Change, its impact and mitigation strategies.
(vi)
Published a book on Forest Types of India Revisited as a baseline for
monitoring climatic changes in the forests of the country.
(vii) Published a booklet titled "Forestry Research ICFRE: Supporting Rural &
Tribal Livelihoods" containing significant ICFRE research highlights, viz.
recent technologies, products, procedures and extension strategies.
(viii) Revisited its thrust areas to make research people-centric, primarily focusing
on the livelihoods of the rural tribal population, along with a focus on food and
water security. Six thrust areas and 43 themes were identified.
(ix)
A new innovative scheme, Direct to Consumer, for quick transfer of
technologies to consumers/stakeholders on completion of research projects was
launched. Seventeen projects from ICFRE were identified for extension.
Technology developed by FRI for Reshaping of exudates gums was
transferred to M/s Anand Gond Udyog, Nagpur on a license fee of 1.4 lakh.
(x)
Prepared HRD Plan for Capacity Building of Scientific Personnel for XII Plan.
56
(xi)
(xii)
In 2013, the major achievements of ICFREs eight Regional Research Institutes were:
Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun
(i)
57
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(i)
58
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
the wooden handicrafts. Few prototypes were made with the help of artisans.
A microprocessor controlled vacuum oven for thermal modification of wood
under different inert environments was designed and got fabricated. One
computer and LVDT-based swellometer equipment was also designed and
installed for measuring the swelling profile of wood samples in real-time to
evaluate their dimensional stability. Heat treatments of wood were carried out
and various physical and mechanical properties and durability against termite
and fungi were studied. Heat treated wooden planks have shown improved
dimensional stability, water resistivity, darker pleasant colour and enhanced
durability and were demonstrated for usage as flooring tiles.
Survey of sandal tree bearing areas of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Acacia auriculaeformis logs of two different age groups of known year
plantation were converted into planks for air seasoning. Assembly of joint and
curing of adhesives work done.
Test panels of different materials immersed at test sites at Kakinada and
Narsapur ports for making observations on settling behavior of different
fouling organisms.
Exhibited the technologies at the Vendor Development and Technology Show
organized jointly by Peenya Industries Association and State Government of
Karnataka from 6-8 June 2013.
Conducted Workshop on Recent Advances in Biofuels in collaboration with
Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board (KSBDB) and Karnataka State
Council for Science and Technology (KSCST) from 22-23 November 2013.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(i)
59
(ii)
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
A new species under the genus Nesticellahas been recorded under the Spider
family Nesticidae in India at HFRI.
Effect of field trial of Baculovirus on IGM was evaluated in the field by
counting per cent of egg-mass produced in the oak forest at Charwag, Sarahan.
Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited, Shimla,awarded a consultancy
titled Redrafting of Catchment Area Treatment Plan for Shongtong-Karchham
Hydroelectric Project, which is being executed.
Organized 3-day training and demonstration programme on Cultivation of
Important Temperate Medicinal Plants sponsored by the Ministry for
Pradhans of Gram Panchayats, NGOs, representatives from herbal industry,
etc. at Manali from 22-24 May 2013.
Organized a one-day meeting on Networking of Van Vigyan Kendras with
Krishi Vigyan Kendras on 30 August 2013 for Programme Coordinators of
KVKs of Jammu, Kathua, Mandi, Bilaspur, Shimla, Solan, Kullu.
(i)
60
(ii)
8.2.2. Indian Plywood Industries Research and Training Institute (IPIRTI), Bengaluru
Established in 1962 as a co-operative research laboratory at the initiative of the Indian
Plywood Industry with participation of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research,
IPIRTI is now an autonomous research and training institute under the Ministry. The
Institutes activities are industry-needs based. It is basically mandated to carry out research
and development, training and education, testing and standardisation and extension in the
field of plywood and panel product manufacturing. The multidisciplinary research projects
based on the problems identified by industrial representatives, Institute Scientists and other
similar interested organisations, are taken up. An important and unique aspect of R&D works
at the Institute is that lab-scale findings are upscaled to industrial level to facilitate their
adoption by the industries.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 27.59 crore, of which 7.35 crore
was spent in 2012-13, and another 4.72 crore in 2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013). In 2013-14 (as
on 31.12.2013), major activities and achievements included the following research projects on
panel products, adhesive, housing standards and training courses:
(i)
(ii)
61
8.3.
IX.
9.1.
The Scheme is a flagship scheme of the Ministry, launched in 1983-84, for enhancing
the understanding of people at all levels about the relationship between human lives and the
environment and to develop capabilities/skills to improve and protect the environment. Its
objectives are to:
(i)
(ii)
62
63
halts for 3-4 days each at 51 locations and over 23 lakh people attended against the envisaged
target of 15 lakh. This included 6 lakh students and 32,000 teachers from 7,000 schools. The
train was also stationed at Secunderabad during 9-19 October 2012 to showcase it to delegates
to CoP-11. The train also reflected the dedication, diligence and dynamism of the knowledge
partners who contributed immensely to bring forth the essence of biodiversity and
conservation practices as well as issues of climate change in our country.
9.1.4. Seminar/Symposia/Workshops/ Conferences
This programme provides a platform to scientists/environmentalists/ University
professionals/ technocrats/ etc, to share their knowledge on various subjects related to the
environment. Financial assistance is provided to Universities/other institutions/NGOs to
organise events and to publish the proceedings. The programme facilitates the transfer of
technical know-how to different people including local population. Universities/professional
bodies/technical institutionsand other R&D organisations are very responsive to the
programme as is evidenced by the higher number of proposals being received by the Ministry.
Thrust areas as identified under the programme are under constant review and regularly
expanded to include new areas. During 2013-14, twenty four organisations were approved for
financial assistance for conducting Seminars/Symposia/Workshops/Conferences.
9.1.5. Mass Awareness (Media)
The Media Cell of the Ministry is mandated to take up awareness campaigns using
print and electronic media besides other mass media to enhance awareness about various
environmental issues which would in turn facilitate better compliance with environment
regulations. Media Cell is guided by an Advisory Committee of Experts on Media Matters
under the Chairmanship of Secretary (E&F).
9.1.6. National Nature Camping Programme
This is an initiative of the Ministry which is aimed at creating greater awareness,
understanding and empathy among children for the environment. Through this initiative, it is
aimed that every child who goes through middle school (Classes VI to VIII) will get at least
one 2-3 day camping experience. The Nature Experience of children and teachers has high
potential to trigger sensitivity towards appreciation of nature and conservation, leading to
positive environmental actions at different levels. This Programme funds proposals for
promoting conservation and environmental awareness through the conduct of Nature Camps
for students of schools. During 2013-14, eighteen proposals were considered for financial
assistance for conducting nature camping.
9.1.7. Library
The Library is the documented repository of the Ministry for dissemination of
information in environment and its associated areas. It has a collection of over 25,000 books
and Technical Reports etc. It also received 29 national/international journals covering diverse
areas of environment. Being the scientific Ministry, the Library is one of the richest
documentary bases for scientific journals in the field of environment and its associated areas.
The Library performs an important role in the planning, promotion, implementation and
coordinator of the Ministrys objectives by providing timely access to relevant and
comprehensive information to its users in the Ministry, external organizations (both
governmental and non-governmental), research students, decision makers, etc. During 201314, numerous research scholars from various organizations, institutions and other professional
bodies also visited the library for a variety of information required by them from time to time.
64
The present system of forestry education and training is tailored to produce skilled
forest managers to manage, protect and conserve the forests in consonance with National
Forest Policy, 1988, forestry action programmes, etc. The activities are performed by the
different institute of the Ministry like Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA),
Dehradun; Directorate of Forest Education (DFE), Dehradun; and IIFM, Bhopal.
65
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 146.00 crore, of which 29.31
crore was spent in 2012-13, and another 22.21 crore in 2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013). In 2013,
65 IFS probationers of 11-13 Course (and two foreign trainees from Bhutan)successfully
completed their probation course and joined their respective States.Three Phase-V MCT, one
Phase-IV MCT, three joint training programmes, one for Higher Judiciary, one for IRS and
IRTS, and one workshop each for officer of 30/50 years of service were organised.
9.3.2. Directorate of Forest Education (DFE), Dehradun
DFE, under the Ministry, is responsible for imparting professional/technical
training/education to State Forest Service (SFS) Officers and Forest Range Officers (FROs).
The Directorate also supplements efforts of various States for training and capacity building
of Forest Frontline Staff (Deputy Rangers, Foresters and Forest Guards) through the
respective Forest Training Institutes. There are three Academies and One College under the
Directorate, as below, with intake capacityof 40 per batch (except Eastern College of a
capacity of 30):
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(vi)
(vii)
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 38.30 crore, of which 4.81 crore
was spent in 2012-13, and another 4.65 crore in 2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013).
9.4.
The Scheme provides capacity building of IFS Officers through sponsoring of shortterm refresher courses of one/ two week(s) duration in the premier institutions in the country
for keeping them up to date on latest technologies, new ideas and change of the attitude for
managing the natural resources of the country.The thrust of this scheme is on capacity
building of the IFS Officers through organising mid-career short-term refresher courses.
During the XII Five Year Plan, the total outlay is 17.50 crore, of which 2.08 crore
was spent in 2012-13, and another 2.22 crore in 2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013).During 2013,
the Ministry sponsored 21 one-week courses in the premier training/management institutions
in the county on a wide range of disciplines including management and administration of
forests, wildlife, environment and general administration, and 16 workshops.
9.5.
X.
Centres of Excellence
67
current environmental issues and responsibilities towards the preservation of the environment.
The programmes are conducted in States of Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha,
Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu and UTs of Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Puducherry.
CPREEC also hosts an Environmental Information (ENVIS) Centre for the Ministry.
10.3. Centre for Ecological Sciences (CES), Indian Institute of Science (IISc),
Bengaluru
CES conducts research, education, extension and training for field managers in the
broad area of ecology with special emphasis on the Western Ghats with practical application
in conservation and sustainable development of natural areas of Western Ghats. CES also
hosts an Environmental Information (ENVIS) Centre for the Ministry.
10.4. Centre of Mining Environment (CME), Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad
CME was inducted as a Centre of Excellence in 1987 on a project mode. It is
supported by Ministry of Human Resource Development for its staff and revenue expenditure
for running the Centre. The Centre has been mainly engaged in R&D activities and associated
research publications, and in training personnel in mining sector and involved in issues of
academic interest pertaining to mining and environment.CME also hosts an Environmental
Information (ENVIS) Centre for the Ministry.
10.5. Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), Coimbatore
SACON was established in 1990 as a fully funded Centre of Excellence covering all
aspects of ornithology and Natural History with the objectives of research, develop and
conduct regular courses, create a data bank on Indian ornithology and natural history, and
disseminate knowledge relating on the subject for the benefit of the community. SACON also
hosts an Environmental Information (ENVIS) Centre for the Ministry.
10.6. Centre for Environment Management of Degraded Ecosystem (CEMDE),
University of Delhi, Delhi
This Centre of Excellence has been engaged in: (i) development of technologies for
ecological restoration of abandoned mined out sites, overburden dumps (OBDs) of coal mined
areas and degraded forest ecosystems of Aravalli, (ii) management of invasive species
especially Lantana in forests ecosystems, (iii) management of grasslands in protected areas,
(iv) preparation of new flora of Delhi and (v) training of stakeholders as a part of capacity
building in action research in the areas of environment and ecology.
10.7. Madras School of Economics (MSE), Chennai
The Centre of Excellence in Environmental Economics was set up in 2002 with the
objectives of carrying out research on issues related to Environmental Economics in project
mode, maintain a state-of-the-art website on environmental economics and provide policy
assistance to the Ministry.
10.8. Foundation for Revitalisation of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT), Bengaluru
The Centre of Excellence on Medicinal Plants and Traditional Knowledge at FRLHT
was initiated in 2002-03 to bring to the focus and address various issues related to
conservation and sustainable utilisation of medicinal plants. In the course of its activities, the
Centre has created a national bio-cultural herbarium of medicinal plants and an ethnomedicinal garden, both of which have very rich collections of Medicinal plants. Besides, the
68
Centre engages in: (a) pharmacognostic studies on controversial plant raw drug groups in
trade, (b) building capacities of stakeholder groups on issues related to medicinal plants,
through its capacity building courses, workshops and training, (c) preparing a GIS-based
Atlas of distribution maps of medicinal plants to help forest managers in planning
conservation action, and (d) preparation of well-referenced educational CD-ROMs on
medicinal plants used in Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathic systems of medicine.FRLHT also
hosts an Environmental Information (ENVIS) Centre for the Ministry.
10.9. The Tropical Botanic
Thiruvananthapuram
Garden
and
Research
Institute
(TBGRI),
XI.
69
IGPP Prize Committee has been completed, who have been mandated to shortlist the
nominees for IGPP-2011 and IGPP-2012. The process for inviting nominations for IGPP2013was launched on 15 July, 2013, and the briefs of the nominations, once prepared, would
be sent to the 3 Expert Members for shortlisting, so that the conferment of the Awards can be
concluded in 2014 pursuant to the selection of awardees by the Prize Committee which has
also been now re-constituted as per the regulations.
11.2. Indira Priyadarshini Vriksha Mitra (IPVM)Awards
The Indira Priyadarshini Vriksha Mitra (IPVM) Awards were instituted in 1986 to
recognise the pioneering and innovative contribution made by individuals and institutions in
the field of afforestation/wasteland development every year.IPVM Awards were given in four
categories since 2006.From 2011, seven categories of Awards are given to enhance the
response and prestige.The Awards for 2010 were conferred on 19November 2010. The
exercise for IPVM Awards for 2011 as well as 2012 is under process.
IPVM Awards for States and Union Territories were instituted in 2008 for enhancing
the percentage of Forest and Tree Cover in States/UTs.The Awards are divided into three
categories, with one award given in each category. The Awards for 2010 have been conferred.
Next IPVM Awards for States/UTs for 2012 are under process.
11.3. Pitamber Pant National Environment Fellowship
This Fellowship, instituted in 1978, is awarded every year to encourage and recognize
excellence in any branch of research on environmental sciences. It is intended to encourage
talented individuals to devote themselves to R&D pursuits in the field. The duration of the
fellowship is two years. So far, 27 Fellowship Awards have been givento Scientists all over
the country. Fellowship Awards for 2007 and 2008 have been announcedand nominations
have been obtained and are under process for 2009 and 2010.
11.4. B.P.Pal National Environment Fellowship Award for Biodiversity
This Fellowship, instituted in 1993, is awarded annually with a view to further
develop, deepen and strengthen expertise on Biodiversity available in the country. It is given
in recognition of significant/ important research and development contributions and is
intended to encourage talented individuals to devote themselves whole-time to R&D pursuits
in the field. The duration of the fellowship is two years. So far, 10 Fellowship Awards have
been given to Scientists all over the country. Fellowship Awards for 2007 and 2008 have been
announced and nominations have been obtained and are under process for 2009 and 2010.
11.5. National Environmental Sciences Fellows Programme
The Fellows Programme, launched in 2009-10, aims to be a flagship programme for
young Scientists desirous of undertake research in environmental sciences. The re-constituted
Management Committee is chaired by Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member, Planning Commission.
Three Scientists selected as Fellows, are working on Climate Change Mitigation-Adaptation
and Ecosystem Services in the context of GIM and REDD+, quantitative framework for
conservation landscape planning of dry grasslands and community-wideseed dispersal
patterns in human-modified landscapes and prediction of forest cover changes.
11.6. Mahatma Gandhi Chair for Ecology and Environment
The Chair, instituted in 2009-10at the Centre for Biodiversity Studies, Baba Ghulam
Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmi, would require the incumbent to work
70
on one of the thrust areas of research identified by the Ministry. The Fellow could be from
any discipline of Science, Engineering, Social Work, Art and Humanities. There is no upper
age limit, with eligibility among University Professors or equivalent grade Scientists in parent
institution, either serving or superannuated. An eminent scholar in the area of biodiversity has
been selected and after joining has initiated studies on plant diversity of Rajouri, Poonch and
adjoining areas of Pir Panjal Himalayas.
11.7. E.K. Janaki Ammal National Award on Taxonomy
In order to encourage works of excellence in taxonomy and also to encourage young
students and scholars to work in this field of science, this award, named after the late Prof. E.
K. Janaki Ammal was instituted in 1999. Initially there was one Award on Taxonomy
covering all three fields, viz. Botany, Zoology and Micro-organisms. It has since been
enlarged in scope and number of Awards to two, one each for excellence in Plant and Animal
Taxonomy. Outstanding work done in Microorganisms is also be eligible for consideration
under either of the two categories, as the case may be. The two Awards known as E.K. Janaki
Ammal National Award on Plant Taxonomy and E. K. Janaki Ammal National Award on
Animal Taxonomy, are usually given on 5thJune, coinciding with the World Environment
Day. Each award carries a cash prize of 1,00,000/- along with a citation, scroll and
Medallion. The Awards is given to Taxonomists selected by a Selection Committee, under the
Chairmanship of Secretary (E&F), constituted for this purpose.
11.8. National Awards for Prevention of Pollution and Rajiv Gandhi Environment
Award for Clean Technology
The National Awards for Prevention of Pollution and the Rajiv Gandhi Environment
Award for Clean Technology are given each year, in the identified categories of highly
polluting industries, which have made a significant and measurable contribution towards
development or use of clean technologies, products or practices that prevent pollution and
find innovative solution to environmental problems.
11.9. Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Conservation Award
The Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Conservation Award is given annually for significant
contribution in the field of wildlife conservation which has made, or has the potential to make,
a major impact on the protection and conservation of wildlife in the country. Two awards of
Rupees One lakh each are given to education and research institutions, organisations, forest
and wildlife officers/research scholars or scientists/wildlife conservationists.
11.10. Amrita Devi Bishnoi Wildlife Protection Award
The Amrita Devi Bishnoi Wildlife Protection Award is given to persons for significant
contribution in wildlife protection, who are recognised as having shown exemplary courage or
having done exemplary work for the protection of wildlife. Two cash awards of Rupees One
lakh each are presented to individuals and institutions involved in wildlife protection.
11.11. Salim Ali Fellowship and Kailash Sankhla Fellowship Awards
In order to commemorate the memory of the two great wildlife conservationists of the
country, Shri Kailash Sankhla and Dr. Salim Ali, the Ministry awards these two fellowships
alternatively each year. The objective is to inspire and promote the country's wildlife
managers and scientists to take up research or experimental projects aimed at conserving the
rich wildlife heritage of India. The fellowship is awarded for two years with a stipend of
71
Rupees 4,000 p.m. An amount of Rupees 18,000 p.a. is given for meeting contingency
expenses.Dr. Salim Ali National Wildlife Fellowship has been conferred for 2011.
72
73
Statistical Advisor served as a member of the Organising Committee constituted by the CSO
for the International Seminar on Green GDP to be held during 5-6 April, 2013.
Statistical Advisor has been nominated by the Ministry to act as Nodal Officer for the
Development Information System (DevInfo), a database system for monitoring human
development. It is a tool for organizing, storing and presenting data in a uniform way to
facilitate data sharing at the country, regional and global levels across government
departments, UN organizations, civil society organizations and development partners. It is
funded by eight UN organizations.
12.3. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) Cell
A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Cell has been set up in the Ministry to
handle various matters relating to NGOs working in diverse fields of environment. The basic
functions of the Cell are: (a) collection and dissemination of information to various NGOs;
and (b) liaison with different Ministries/Departments and other Government agencies on
various issues including creating a database relating to NGOs working in the field of
environment and its associated areas.
Besides replying to Parliament Questions/Assurances, the NGO Cell also disposed of
16 number of RTI applications.
12.4. Information and Facilitation Counter (IFC)
IFC at Paryavaran Bhawan has been functioning for over 6 years with the assistance of
CEE, a Center of Excellence supported by this Ministry. It is equipped with a helpdesk, touch
screen computer and open display area to guide the visitors.
In 2013, IFC continued to disseminate the Ministrys publications such as Annual
Reports, Brochures, Journals, Newsletters, Research Guidelines, Awards Guidelines, and
Funding Schemes etc. It is also providing guidance regarding application procedure for
various schemes of the Ministry along with information about the status of various
applications submitted to the Ministry. Priced publications of the Ministry are available at
IFC, which helps in receiving RTI applications from applicants under the in-person option.
74
NGT is being operationalised/ set up with offices at five places of its sittings (Bhopal,
Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Pune). The Benches at Bhopal, Chennai, Delhi, and Pune have
already become functional. Kolkata Bench of the Tribunal will be operationalised shortly.
The infrastructure and refurbishment of the places of sitting of the Tribunal is underway.
The Loss of Ecology (Prevention and Payment of Compensation) Authority (LOEA)
for the State of Tamil Nadu; and Dhanu Taluka Environment Protection (Prevention and
Control) Authority for the National Capital Region (DTEPA), were constituted for
implementation of various regulations and/or compliance with the directions of the Honble
Supreme Court. DTEPA was notified on 19.12.1996. LOEA, initially constituted for 2 years
on 30.09.1996, has been regularly extended on yearly basis. Presently, its term stands
extended until further orders.
13.3. Trade and Environment
Trade and Environment (T&E) Cell of the Ministry undertakes the following items of
work: (a) provision of technical inputs to the preparatory process in the area of Trade and
Environment; (b) formulation of Ministrys position on trade-related matters referred to it by
other Ministries, including views on issues relating to Regional/Bilateral/Multilateral Trade
Agreements and other trade-related issues; (c) acting as Nodal Cell within the Ministry to deal
with references received from M/o Commerce & Industry; (d) implementation of any ongoing Project on Trade and Environment; and (e) acting as Export Promotion Cell in the
Ministry.
In 2013, the Division regularly furnished comments and materials from environment,
ecology, forestry and wildlife points of view to the Department of Commerce for drawing up
Indias position and contributing to the on-going multilateral negotiations under the Doha
Development Agenda (DDA) of the Agreement on the Establishment of the World Trade
Organisation (WTO), in particular, the negotiations under trade in goods and services and
domestic regulations. In addition, issues emerging from the lack of availability of data in
services which hinders policymaking in the area as well as adversely affects bilateral and
multilateral trade negotiations in services were also taken up in the context of environmental
services. Certain classification issues relating to environmental services in the context of
WTOs questionnaire on Services are presently under scrutiny. In coordination with
Economic Cell of the MoEF, the Division has brought out a working paper on the Trade in
Environmental Services.
Various regional trade agreements under negotiation by India were examined and
Ministrys contributions were provided, including on the (i) India-Chile PTA; (ii) IndiaAustralia Free Trade Agreement (FTA); (iii) India-New Zealand FTA; (iv) India-Japan
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and (v) India-Israel FTA in
Environmental services. The Division also contributed to the ongoing negotiations on various
bilateral investment treaties and bilateral investment protection agreements.
On the request received from the Lok Sabha Secretariat for the comments on
Expanding Trade through Innovation and the Digital Economy for the Annual WTO Forum,
1-3 October 2013, Geneva, the Division has provided its critical inputs on the Innovation &
Trade and Green the Economy: What role for innovation.
75
Year Plan (2012-2017) is to Foster More Inclusive and Sustainable Growth. Sustainable
Development calls for economic well being, social cohesion and environmental protection to
go hand in hand with each symbiotically dependent on each other. Sustainable Development
is one of the thrust areas of the Ministry and International Cooperation and Sustainable
Development Division (IC&SD) is responsible for interacting with the various UN Agencies,
International Bodies and try to ensure that the sustainable development programmes and
policies at international level are in line with national reality, capacity, level of development
and national policies and priorities.
14.2. Climate Change
India is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC). The main objective of the Convention is to stabilize concentration of Green
House Gas (GHG) of anthropogenic origin in the atmosphere at safer levels. Recognizing the
countrys vulnerability to human induced climate change, the Ministry has taken several
actions to address climate change at the national level besides fulfilling its obligations under
the UNFCCC.
The Government has conducted periodical assessments of climate change from
scientific perspective with a view to determine domestic response to it. The Second National
Communication (NATCOM) was prepared and submitted to the UNFCCC in May 2012. The
NATCOM provides GHG emission inventory by sources and assessment of the projected
vulnerability due to climate change on various sectors of the economy such as water,
agriculture, forests & biodiversity, human health etc.
Many other activities are being initiated under the new thematic scheme titled
Climate Change Action Programme (CCAP) include the National Carbonaceous Aerosols
Programme (NCAP), Long Term Ecological Observatories (LTEO), Coordinated Studies on
Climate Change for North East Region (CSCCNER), National Institute for Climate Change
Studies and Action (NICCSA), as a autonomous body of MoEF, to support the Ministry/
Government in the area of scientific, technical and analytical studies relating to climate
change and act as a nodal institution for Indian Network for Climate Change Assessment
(INCCA). This institute will also conduct various scientific programmes on Climate Change;
prepare NATCOM and Biennial Update Report (BUR), GHG inventory; develop projects on
Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMA) and provide technical and analytical
support to policy makers.
Besides, the Ministry has actively participated in review process and finalization of
Working Group Reports of fifth Assessment Report prepared by the Inter-governmental Panel
on Climate Change (IPCC). The Summary for Policymakers of the IPCC Working Group-I
AR5 titled Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis was approved at the Twelfth
Session of IPCC Working Group-I meeting held in Stockholm, Sweden, during 23-26
September 2013 and was released on 27 September 2013. Working Group-II on Climate
Change Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability and Working Group-III on Mitigation of
Climate Change are likely to be released in March 2014 and April 2014. The synthesis report
comprising of key findings emerging from the three Working Groups of AR5, will be
published by IPCC in October 2014.
Government of India is implementing the National Action Plan on Climate Change
(NAPCC) which comprises of eight National Missions in specific areas of Solar Energy,
Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change.
The Missions are under constant review of the Prime Ministers Council on Climate Change.
Now, an Executive Committee on Climate Change under the Chairmanship of Principal
76
Secretary to Prime Minister has been set up for assisting the Prime Ministers Council on
Climate Change in evolving a coordinating response to issues relating to climate change,
regular monitoring of the implementation of eight National missions and other initiatives on
Climate Change and coordinating with various agencies on issues relating to climate change.
Prime Ministers Office has entrusted the responsibility of convening and servicing the Prime
Ministers Council on Climate Change as well as the Executive Committee to this Ministry.
This Ministry is coordinating the implementation of envisaged activities under NAPCC and
other initiatives by various Central Ministries. At the instance of the Ministry, all States and
Union Territories are preparing State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) in line with
the objectives of NAPCC. So far, 24 States have submitted the SAPCCs to the MoEF, out of
which 9 SAPCCs were endorsed by the National Steering Committee on Climate Change.
Climate Change Action Programme (CCAP) a new thematic/umbrella Scheme of the
Ministry of Environment and Forests, has been approved by the Planning Commission for the
XII Five Year Plan. The scheme aims at creating and strengthening the scientific and
analytical capacity for assessment of climate change in the country. This scheme has a
tentative outlay of Rs. 290 crore for 2012-17. The components of the scheme include
supporting scientific assessments and studies relating to climate change, preparation and
implementation of SAPCCs and NAPCC, creation of institutional structure for
implementation and capacity building at the national and state level for implementing a low
carbon strategy of development.
Government of India also participates in the negotiations on climate change under the
auspices of the UNFCCC and its Kyoto Protocol. Besides, Government has also participated
in other international fora on climate change, such as the BASIC (Brazil, South Africa, India
and China) group, Major Economies Forum, Petersburg Dialogue, and such other bilateral and
plurilateral initiatives to protect Indias long term interests. At the recent negotiations held
from 11-23 November 2013 in Warsaw, a package of decisions were adopted with a view to
advance the implementation of the UNFCCC and its Kyoto Protocol. India contributed
constructively to these negotiations to ensure that future arrangements are built on equity and
Common But Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR).
Carbon markets are an important mechanism established under the Kyoto Protocol to
stabilize the GHG emissions across the globe as also to foster sustainable development in
developing countries. India is a leading participant in the international carbon markets and,
today, India projects represents a significant component of the global CDM market. As on 31
December 2013, India has the 2ndhighest number of registered projects: 1,465 out of total
7,407 projects registered by the CDM Executive Board are from India.
14.3. Ozone Layer Protection
Government of India has entrusted the work relating to Ozone layer protection and
implementation of the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the Ozone Layer to the
Ministry. The Ministry has set up the Ozone Cell as a National Ozone Unit to render
necessary services for effective and timely implementation of the Protocol and its ODS phaseout program in India.
The Ministry has also established an Empowered Steering Committee (ESC) Chaired
by the Secretary (E&F) which is supported by two Standing Committees, Technology and
Finance Standing Committee (TFSC) and Standing Committee on Monitoring. The ESC is
overall responsible for the implementation of the Montreal Protocol provisions, review of
various policy and implementation options, project approval and monitoring.
The Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 under the
77
Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 set the deadlines for phasing out of various ODSs,
besides regulating production, consumption, trade, import and export of ODSs and the
products containing ODSs. These Rules, amended from time to time, prohibit the production
and consumption of CFCs, CTC and Halons beyond 1st January, 2010 except use of
pharmaceutical grade CFCs in manufacturing of Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs). Further, the
use of methyl bromide has been allowed upto 1st January, 2015. Since, HCFCs are used as
interim substitute to replace CFCs, their production and consumption is allowed upto
1stJanuary 2030.
Sanctioned
Strength
191
285
392
868
Number in
position
178
230
272
680
Scheduled
Caste
13
29
89
131
Scheduled
Tribes
3
7
15
25
OBCs
9
9
11
29
Physically
Handicapped
2
4
4
10
The Ministry have outsourced some clerical/office support jobs to tide over the
shortage of the staff during the year.
78
79
which 47 were starred and 350 were un-starred). The questions covered a wide range of issues
with which the Ministry is concerned, prominent among them being questions related to water
and air Pollution, Wildlife Management, Forest Conservation, EIA, Freshwater and Marine
Conservation, Environmental Conservation, Climate Change and Meteorology, Energy
Studies, Environmental Education, NGOs and Media, Water Management, Health and
Sanitation etc.
16.5. Information Technology (IT) and e-Governance
The Government has recognized IT as a major tool for speedy implementation and
monitoring of various schemes and decisions in public interest. Accordingly, Ministry has
embarked on a comprehensive exercise to implement various e-Governance activities/
projects with the objective of transforming the functioning of the Ministry, and also to
transform the way the Ministry serves its various stakeholders.
In 2013, the IT infrastructure of the Ministry and Zoological Survey of India was
strengthened; Unicode based bilingual software was installed at Botanical Survey of India and
Zoological Survey of India for bilingualisation of all computer systems; Photographic
digitization of Economic Herbarium at Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata has been
undertaken; re-structuring and re-designing of existing website of the Zoological Survey of
India (ZSI), Kolkata and Botanical Survey of India (BSI), Kolkata into CMS based website is
being undertaken.
In addition, digitized and updated the Annual Property Returns (APR) of Indian Forest
Service (IFS) Officers in the website of the Ministry for the year 2012-13; Coordination of IT
Related services in the New Indira Paryavaran Bhawan; and re-structuring and re-designing of
the IFS Cadre Management System (IFSCMS) website into .NET platform from the existing
ASP platform have been undertaken. IT Division also examination of all policy issues
pertaining to Information Technology.
16.6. Protocol Section
In 2013, the Protocol Section dealt with following major activities:
(a)
(b)
80
to be shifted to Palika Bhavan soon; (iii) Bio-metric attendance system including face
detection facility has been installed in the Ministry to ensure proper attendance.
16.8. Public Grievance Cell
A Grievance Cell has been functioning in the Ministry to attend to the complaints of
public regarding forestry, environmental matters etc. The general public can meet the Public
Grievance Officer every Wednesday from 10.00 AM to 1.00 PM. The main function of the
Cell is to ensure timely redressal of public grievances by taking up the matter with the
concerned authorities such as District Magistrates, Municipal Corporations, Pollution Control
Boards, State Governments, etc. Most of the complaints related to:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
82
may be followed to achieve the stated objectives. Ministry of Environment & Forests has been
allocated an outlay of Rs 17,874 crore, which works out to 0.41% of the Plan allocation across
various Ministries/ Departments as against a share of 0.42% or Rs 9,231.00 crore in the
Eleventh Plan. At current prices, the enhancement in this Ministrys Twelfth Plan outlay over
the Eleventh Plan outlay, however, works out to 109%.
Annual Plan 2013-14 and Annual Plan 2014-15:
In the current financial year 2013-14, the second year of the Twelfth Five Year Plan,
the Ministry has been allocated an outlay of Rs 2,430.00 crore which has subsequently been
reduced at RE stage to Rs 1,850.00 crore. The Annual Plan (BE) outlay of the Ministry for
2014-15, the third year of this Plan, is Rs. 2,480.00 crore. The sectoral summary of the two
Annual Plans is given below:
Sector-wise Summary of Twelfth Plan Outlays/ Actual Expenditure (as on 31st January 2014)
( crore)
Sector
Environment
NRCD#
Period
XII Plan Approved Outlay
Forests &
Wildlife
NAEB@
Animal
Welfare
Total
3,802.00
4,273.00
4,818.80
4,780.00
200.20
17,874.00
Outlay (BE)
580.42
771.80
606.09
446.49
25.20
2430.00
Actual Expenditure
388.13
421.02
577.81
224.08
25.09
1636.13
Outlay (BE)
614. 37
619.80
719.14
451.49
25.20
2430
Outlay (RE)
431.10
530.26
580.31
300.93
7.40
1850
Expenditure as on31.01.2014
349.59
505.79
553.35
285.62
5.73
1700.08
678.01
632.79
713.11
432.89
23.20
2480.00
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
Outlay (BE)
#
National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) and National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic
Eco Systems (NPCA).
@
National Afforestation & Eco-Development Board (NAEB), National Afforestation Programme
(NAP) and Green India Mission (GIM).
83