The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has recently decided against its earlier plan to merge key environmental bodies. The initial decision was made with the aim of optimizing operations and establishing a unified authority for organizations such as the Forest Survey of India (FSI), National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), and the Central Zoo Authority (CZA).
The Initial Proposal by MoEFCC
The MoEFCC had proposed during the Covid-19 lockdown that multiple environmental bodies should be brought together under one management structure to promote more efficient operations. However, this decision faced significant criticism from multiple fronts. Critics stated that this would diminish the independence and authority of these organizations, which have different mandates and roles in environmental governance. It could also lead to administrative confusion due to their separate reporting structures and jurisdictions.
Risks of Merging Environmental Bodies
The proposed unification plan raised concerns over its potential impact on the quality and credibility of the work carried out by these bodies. Critics suggested that the increased political intervention could hinder their work. Moreover, the specialized functions and expertise of each body would be diluted, compromising the effectiveness of their contributions in their respective domains.
Reversal of MoEFCC’s Decision
In response to the criticisms, the MoEFCC recently scrapped the merger plan. Instead, it suggested rearranging the current regional offices, a decision that is also facing opposition. For example, the Bengaluru regional office would gain jurisdiction over three states and a Union Territory, each with distinct geographical and environmental characteristics. This includes Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and Lakshadweep. There are further concerns about the proposed merging of Project Tiger and Project Elephant, which may affect the autonomy and relevance of these initiatives.
About the Environmental Bodies
The Forest Survey of India (FSI) is a governmental agency responsible for performing forest surveys, evaluations, and pertinent research. The National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body set up under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, responsible for managing Project Tiger and India’s Tiger Reserves. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is a multi-disciplinary statutory body established to fight organized wildlife crime across the country. Lastly, the Central Zoo Authority is a statutory body formed to control and monitor the functioning of India’s zoos.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Environmental Bodies
The FSI’s role includes conducting forest surveys and assessments and publishing a biennial report known as the India State of Forest Report (ISFR). The NTCA, headed by the Union Environment Minister and the State Environment Minister, supervises Project Tiger and the country’s Tiger Reserves. The WCCB advises the Government of India on issues related to wildlife crimes with national and international implications. It also supports the Customs authorities in inspecting flora and fauna consignments. The Central Zoo Authority, meanwhile, regulates the functioning of zoos in India and ensures compliance with prescribed standards and norms.
Past UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
Previous years’ questions from the UPSC Civil Services Examination included one regarding which Tiger Reserve has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat.” Given the choices of Corbett, Ranthambore, Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam, and Sundarbans, the correct answer was Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam. Another question asked for commentary on the statement that “Policy contradictions among various competing sectors and stakeholders have resulted in inadequate ‘protection and prevention of degradation’ to environment.” providing relevant examples.
