(a) whether the instances of gradual increase in the encroachment on forest land
have been reported in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the total area under encroachment and
evicted from encroachment in the country, at present, State-wise along with the steps
taken to stop encroachments on forest land;
(c) whether the Government has any proposal to regularise the encroachment on land
in the country; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS ( Dr. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)
(a)& (b) No reports regarding gradual increase in encroachment on forest land in the country
have been received. However, there are sporadic reports of encroachment on forest land in the
country. States/UTs take action for eviction of encroachment on forest land. Further action
is also taken as per law against encroachers of forest land. The Ministry of Environment and
Forests provides Grants-in-aid to States/UTs under Intensification of Forest Management Scheme
with the aim of supplementing the efforts of the States/Union Territories for forest protection.
Funds under the scheme are utilized for patrolling of the forests, establishment of camps,
building fire watch towers, creation and maintenance of fire lines, forest fire control,
survey and demarcation of forest areas and strengthening of forest infrastructure etc.
State/UT- wise details of forest land under encroachment and eviction are annexed.
(c)& (d) Guidelines have been issued by the Ministry under the Forest (Conservation) Act
1980 to consider proposals from State Government for regularization of encroachments
subsisting pre- 1980, where the State Government had taken a decision before the enactment
of Forest (conservation) Act 1980, to regularize categories of encroachments.