Section 3 of IFA : Section 3: Power To Reserve Forests

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where a government in India identifies a large area of forest land that is currently not designated for any specific use. The land is rich in biodiversity and the government aims to protect it from deforestation and encroachment. To achieve this, the state government decides to use Section 3 of The Indian Forest Act, 1927 to declare this area a reserved forest.

As per the process outlined in the Act, the government begins by issuing a notification stating its intention to reserve the forest. This notification invites claims from people who might be affected by the reservation, such as tribals or other forest dwellers who depend on the forest for their livelihood. After considering all claims and objections, the government may decide to constitute the land as a reserved forest, thereby restricting activities like logging or grazing, and putting in place a management plan for conservation and sustainable use of the forest resources.