Q. Consider the following statements:
- Once the Central Government notifies an area as a 'Community Reserve' the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest
- Hunting is not allowed in such area
- People of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce
- People of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices
How many of the above statements are correct? (UPSC Prelims 2023)
Answer:
Only two
Notes: The correct answer is
[B] Only two, based on the official UPSC answer key. This question specifically targets the restrictive nature of protected area status under the
Wildlife (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972.
- Statement 1 – Incorrect: When a Community Reserve is notified, the governing authority is the Community Reserve Management Committee, not the Chief Wildlife Warden. The Committee is responsible for preparing and implementing the management plan. The Chief Wildlife Warden's role is primarily to provide a representative and oversee the process, rather than acting as the sole authority.
- Statement 2 – Correct: Once an area is declared a Community Reserve, the provisions of the WPA apply. Under Section 35 (read with Section 38), hunting is strictly prohibited in such areas, similar to the protections afforded to National Parks and Sanctuaries.
- Statement 3 – Correct: The primary objective of a Community Reserve is to protect the landscape while maintaining the rights of the local community. Residents are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce (NTFP) for their bona fide subsistence needs, provided it aligns with the management plan.
- Statement 4 – Incorrect : While the Act states that the declaration of a Community Reserve shall not affect "existing rights," the interpretation considers traditional agricultural practices (especially shifting cultivation or Jhum) to be restricted or prohibited once the land is officially "notified" as a reserve. The conversion of land use for agriculture is generally not permitted within the boundaries of a protected area to ensure conservation.