(a) whether the Army has only 66 Field Firing Ranges (FFRs) at present against 104 FFRs 10
years ago;
(b) if so, the reasons for dwindling number of FFRs for use by tank regiments, mechanized
units artillery gun batteries and mortar fire parties; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government to provide for adequate number of FFRs to Army for
their use?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
(a) Yes, Madam.
(b) Notified FFRs are required to be re-notified from time to time as per their validity by
respective State Governments and clearance by Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). Due
to increase in population, spread of habitation & development, encroachments, areas being declared
as wild life sanctuary / reserve forests, and environmental pressures, the State Governments are
often disinclined to re-notify ranges in their jurisdiction.
(c) Concerted efforts are being made at all levels to ensure timely re-notification of the
de-notified ranges. One time Compensatory Afforestation (CA) charges as required by the
respective State Governments have been paid in case of many ranges to ensure their long term
re-notification and continued availability. In addition, efforts are on by the Army to impress
upon the respective State Governments and MoEF for re-notification / acquisition of field firing
ranges.