Forest Conservation Act & Rules

This concise and practical volume on the Forest (Conservation) Act and its Rules explains India’s legal framework for protection, use, and diversion of forest land. Beginning with the statutory framework and legislative intent, the book covers the institutional architecture—central and state authorities, advisory committees, and the role of the Ministry/State Forest Departments—in administering forest conservation. Key topics include forest diversion procedures, forest clearance (in-principle and final), conditions and safeguards attached to clearances, compensatory afforestation, net present value, monitoring and compliance, penalties, and measures for restoration. Each chapter reproduces relevant statutory provisions followed by plain-language commentary, step-by-step procedural checklists, and sample applications and formats used in clearance and compliance workflows. The volume also provides concise summaries of landmark court rulings and tribunal orders that shape forest conservation jurisprudence. Designed for legal practitioners, environmental consultants, project developers, government officers, and students, this book balances doctrinal clarity with hands-on tools required for navigating forest clearance and conservation compliance effectively.