A panel led by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav recommended 17 defence-related proposals, mainly in Ladakh and Sikkim, considering their impact on protected areas. The recommendations were made during the 88th Meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) to meet national security and strategic needs. The projects were assessed for compliance with wildlife protection measures and environmental safeguards.
The Standing Committee evaluated a total of 70 proposals related to public utility services, defence requirements, and infrastructure development near Protected Areas, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger Reserves, and Eco-Sensitive Zones. These projects were reviewed based on the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, focusing on ecological sensitivity and statutory requirements while ensuring essential services for local communities.
Among the proposals discussed were public utility projects like drinking water supply under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), healthcare facilities, road widening, 4G mobile towers, and transmission lines. Additionally, the Committee deliberated on proposals such as a medium irrigation project in MP, water facilities in the Bundelkhand region, and improving water regimes for wildlife and gharials.
The Committee also examined the Action Taken Report (ATR) on previous decisions, emphasizing policy measures and process improvements, including enhancing the PARIVESH portal. Future meetings will further discuss policies and programs related to wildlife conservation and compliance with SC-NBWL directives for better monitoring.
