Context

Recently, the Union Environment Ministry’s Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has approved expanded exemptions for mineral exploration drilling on forest land without the need for clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.

Key changes made:

Earlier, up to 25 boreholes per 10 sq km were allowed without clearance.

·        Now, 62 to 80 boreholes (each up to 6-inch diameter) per 10 sq km are permitted, depending on the mineral type and exploration area.

·        The move is based on requests by the Ministry of Coal and the Ministry of Mines, as many mineral-rich zones lie within forested regions.

Reason for the Change

The policy change is based on a study by the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal, in collaboration with the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute and Geological Survey of India, commissioned by the Ministry of Mines.

·        The study found that temporary drilling (lasting 20 days per site) does not result in long-term ecological damage, though short-term impacts (e.g., noise, water pollution) remain a concern.

·        The FAC concluded that exploration activities could be allowed under exemptions, as long as Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) are strictly followed.

Safeguards that mandated:

To mitigate ecological damage, the following environmental safeguards have been mandated:

• Time restrictions: Drilling only between 9 AM to 5:30 PM, aligning with diurnal wildlife patterns.
• Site restoration: Boreholes must be plugged with cement after use to prevent contamination.
• Sensitive zones off-limits: Drilling is prohibited in ecologically fragile areas like:
• Wildlife breeding and nesting zones
• Areas with endangered species
• Cultural and religious forest areas
• High-biodiversity or water source areas

A reconnaissance survey is compulsory before drilling to avoid these zones.

About Forest Conservation Act, 1980 and Amendments, 2023:

The Forest Conservation Act (1980) mandates central government approval for diversion of forest land for non-forest use. However, in 2023, the Act was amended to allow certain exploratory activities like mineral drilling under exemptions, especially when:

• The activity is temporary
• It causes minimal tree felling
• It follows strict environmental protocols

The current relaxation is in line with these 2023 amendments, but has raised concerns among environmentalists regarding the cumulative impact on dense forest regions.

Pros:

• Facilitates faster mineral exploration to meet energy and economic needs.
• Temporariness of activity reduces permanent forest damage.
• SOPs aim to balance exploration with conservation.

Cons:

• Risks of regulatory dilution in sensitive forest areas.
• Wildlife stress and habitat fragmentation are still possible.
• Local communities may be affected by resource extraction without adequate safeguards.

 Conclusion:

The expansion of exemptions for exploratory drilling on forest land marks a paradigm shift in India's forest governance—reflecting the economic imperative to explore untapped mineral resources. However, balancing such development with ecological integrity and local community rights will be crucial in ensuring sustainable growth.