Forest Conservation Guidelines 2026: Private Role in Restoration
Why in the news
In January 2026 the environment ministry revised the 2023 guidelines issued under the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam so that non-government players can help restore degraded forest land.
Key changes
| Change | Effect |
|---|---|
| Plantations | Treated as forestry activities, not non-forest use |
| Compensatory Afforestation | Not required on degraded land, as no diversion is deemed |
| Net Present Value | Not payable |
| Participants | Private and non-government entities engaged by States |
| Plans | Must follow approved Working or Management Plans |
| Produce and revenue | States may set case-specific sharing terms |
Safeguards
- State Forest Department supervises; Central approval framework stays; State keeps ownership.
Exam angle
- Earlier name of the Adhiniyam: Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
- Waived: CA and NPV.