Why in news?
The National Board for Wildlife has recently approved several infrastructure projects near protected areas, prompting discussions about its role and decision‑making process. Understanding the composition and powers of the Board helps explain how wildlife conservation decisions are made in India.
Background
The NBWL is a statutory advisory body established under Section 5A of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972. It advises the central government on policies and measures for wildlife conservation and oversees the implementation of the Act. The Board is chaired by the Prime Minister of India, and the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change serves as the vice‑chairperson.
Composition
The NBWL comprises 47 members, including five Members of Parliament, ten eminent ecologists and conservationists, the director generals of zoological and botanical surveys, and representatives from non‑governmental organisations and state governments. The diverse membership is meant to ensure that scientific, administrative and community perspectives are considered.
Functions
- Advisory role: Recommend policies and programmes for the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity.
- Project approvals: Review and approve proposals for activities such as roads, dams, mining or tourism inside or within 10 km of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. No alteration of protected area boundaries can occur without the NBWL’s consent.
- Monitoring implementation: Oversee the implementation of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and ensure that states adhere to conservation guidelines.
- Setting up protected areas: Recommend the creation of new national parks, sanctuaries, conservation reserves and community reserves based on ecological importance.
State Wildlife Advisory Boards
Each state and union territory in India constitutes a Wildlife Advisory Board, chaired by the Chief Minister. These boards perform similar advisory functions at the state level, including reviewing projects and advising on local conservation measures.
Source: Indian Express – Explained
