Why in news?
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India’s apex National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) cleared 682 of the 687 projects that came up for scrutiny.
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Charged with allowing forest land in Protected Areas to be diverted for industry.
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Only five projects were rejected since August 2014.
More in the news
As compared to UPA:
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UPA GOVT. had recommended 260 of the 328 that is about 80% of the projects.
Concern:
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The environment ministry has delegated all powers of the NBWL which clears projects in Protected Areas with little due diligence.
About NBWL
About:
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Statutory Organization constituted under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
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Board is advisory in nature and advises the Central Government on framing policies and measures for conservation of wildlife.
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Apex body to review all wildlife-related matters and approve projects in national parks and sanctuaries.
Composition:
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Chaired by Prime Minister.
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Vice chairman is Minister of Environment.
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Total 47 members, 15 non-government members, 19 ex-officio members and 10 government officials.
Functions:
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Promote the conservation and development of wildlife and forests.
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Power to review all wildlife-related matters and approve projects in and around national parks
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No alternation of boundaries in national parks and wildlife sanctuaries can be done without approval of the NBWL.
Source
The Hindu