The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 was enacted to ensure the conservation of forests and the protection of wildlife. The Act restricts the de-reservation of forests or use of forestland for non-forest purposes without the prior approval of the Central Government. The Act also lays down provisions for the constitution of advisory committees to advise on matters related to the management of forests and the promotion of afforestation. It also empowers the State Governments to constitute a State Forest Development Corporation to undertake measures for the development of forestry and utilization of forest produce. The Act provides for penalties for contravention of its provisions and also sets out provisions for the establishment of Special Courts for the trial of offences under the Act.