Centre proposes simpler clearance process for forest land use

05 Oct 2021 CW Team

projects and border infrastructure projects from getting prior forest clearance from the Centre as part of amendments in the present Forest Conservation Act (FCA).

The FCA first came in 1980 and was amended in 1988, which needs such consent.

The government said that the suggested amendment is part of a larger rationalising of existing forest laws.

For 15 days, the document is open to public discussion, after which it could be prepared for Cabinet and Parliamentary approval.

Also, there is a plan in the document that is available on the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) website now, to exempt land obtained before 1980, before the FCA came into force by public sector bodies.

A landholding agency is required to take permission under the Act and pay stipulated compensatory levies for use of such land which was originally procured for non-forest purposes.

The ministry also suggests adding a clause to make punishments under the modified Act punishable with simple imprisonment for a period which may extend to one year and make it cognisable and non-bailable. They also recommend provisions for penal compensation to make good for the damages already caused to trees in forest land.

The document also suggests eliminating zoos, safaris, and forest training infrastructures from the definition of non-forestry activities.

There was a plan for Indian Forest Act, 1927, an amendment that deals with the forest dwellers' rights, to address contemporary challenges to forests in the country. The draft law had been sent to state key forest officers for asking comments and objections.

The government withdrew the draft and has said that a newly updated version was on the anvil.

Image Source

Resources

09 Mar 2026

Haworth India Hosts Women’s Leadership Panel Series

Haworth India marked International Women’s Day by hosting a leadership roundtable series titled ‘Give to Gain’, bringing together senior women leaders from architecture and design firms, corporates and project management consultancies. The series has been conducted in Delhi and Mumbai, with upcoming sessions scheduled in Bengaluru and Hyderabad on 27 March 2026. Structured as moderated panel discussions followed by audience interaction, the initiative examined the business impact of women’s leadership and the role of inclusive workplaces in supporting professional growth. Manish Khan..

Max Estates Secures RERA For Max One Project

Max Estates has secured RERA approval (UPRERA No.: UPRERAPRJ9759) for its Max One development around Max Towers in Sector 16B, Noida, bringing renewed progress to a project previously stalled following the insolvency of its earlier developer. Spread across around 10 acres with an estimated development potential of about 2.5 million sq ft, Max One is planned as an integrated mixed-use campus combining serviced residences, premium offices, retail spaces and a private club. The project is expected to generate total sales potential of about Rs 20 billion along with an estimated annuity rental inc..

Hindware Introduces Starc Smart Wall Mount Toilet

Hindware has introduced the Starc Smart Wall-Mount Toilet under its Hindware Italian Collection, designed to combine automation, hygiene and contemporary bathroom aesthetics. The model features automatic flushing, sensor-based seat opening and closing, and remote-controlled functions. It also includes an oscillating water spray and warm air dryer for cleaning, along with a self-cleaning nozzle designed to maintain hygiene. Additional features include adjustable heated seating, customisable water temperature and pressure settings, a foot-touch flush system and an LCD control interface. The wa..