Ministry of Environment & Forests has clarified that the Consultant’s report, “National Bio-diversity Strategy and Action Plan” submitted by an NGO – KALPAVRIKSHA has been reviewed by a group of scientists appointed by the Ministry. They have concluded that the report is for the major part scientifically invalid. Hence, the Ministry has rejected the report and has started the process of developing the National Bio-diversity Action Plan, afresh.
KALPAVRIKSHA was paid more than Rs. 3.00 crore as consultancy fees by the Global Environment Facility for preparation of this report. Unfortunately, this international assistance to India has not yielded the expected benefits.
Ministry of Environment & Forests (CS-II Division)
New Delhi, Asvina 13, 1927; October 5, 2005
HRK/SK
(Release ID :12522)