Forest Department Evicts Thousands in Theni Over Alleged Encroachments
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Forest Department initiated mass evictions in the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve (ABR) following Supreme Court directives and CEC recommendations to remove illegal encroachments.
Background
The eviction targets thousands of households in the Theni district of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. The Supreme Court imposed penalties on 118 government servants found to be encroachers and prohibited new non-forest activities in the reserve.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceAgasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve (ABR) is located in the Western Ghats region.
- BodyCEC (Central Empowered Committee) provides recommendations on environmental and land issues.
- Fact118 government servants were identified and penalized for encroachment in the ABR.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the challenges in balancing the rights of forest-dwelling communities with the conservation of biodiversity in protected areas like the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Biodiversity conservation vs. human rights
- Role of judicial oversight
- Rehabilitation and sustainable livelihoods
Keywords: Biodiversity conservation · Encroachment · Judicial activism · Sustainable development · Rehabilitation
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