What Proposals Did Bhupender Yadav's Panel Approve for Defence in Ladakh and Sikkim?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 17 defence-related proposals approved.
- Focus on Ladakh and Sikkim.
- Ensuring wildlife protection alongside development.
- Enhancements to infrastructure for local communities.
- Future discussions on wildlife conservation policies.
New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) A committee led by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav has put forward 17 defence-related proposals, mainly situated in Ladakh and Sikkim, following an assessment of their implications on protected regions, according to an official source.
The 88th Meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) endorsed these proposals considering national security and strategic imperatives, while maintaining strict adherence to wildlife conservation measures and environmental protections, in accordance with the Committee's directives and relevant legal frameworks, as stated in an official release.
During the session, the Standing Committee evaluated 70 proposals pertaining to public utility needs, defence operations, and infrastructure advancements in proximity to Protected Areas, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger Reserves, and Eco-Sensitive Zones.
The projects were scrutinized under the guidelines of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, focusing on ecological sensitivity, legal requirements, and the necessity to provide essential services to local populations.
Key public utility initiatives examined by the Committee include drinking water supply under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), establishment of primary and community health centres, road expansions, installation of 4G mobile towers, and the laying of transmission lines.
Additionally, proposals concerning a medium irrigation project in MP aimed at providing drinking and irrigation water facilities in the Bundelkhand area, while also improving the water regime for wildlife and gharials, were discussed, as per the statement.
The Committee reviewed the Action Taken Report (ATR) on prior decisions and directives issued in earlier meetings, particularly regarding policy adjustments and process enhancements, including upgrades to the PARIVESH portal.
Moving forward, the panel resolved that discussions on policies and programmes related to wildlife conservation and adherence to SC-NBWL mandates will continue in future meetings for effective oversight.
The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife is a statutory entity established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, tasked with advising the government on wildlife and forest conservation issues, while ensuring that developmental activities within and around protected areas are conducted in a balanced and sustainable manner.