99.82% projects in forests got nod

99.82% projects in forests got nod

1. According to a response to a query in the Lok Sabha, National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has given forest clearance to 98% of projects that came for scrutiny since 2014.
2. The NBWL has been constituted under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972- an act to provide for the protection of wild animals. NBWL advices the government on policy and strategy for wildlife conservation. It also reviews proposals for non-forestry use of forestland within National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, and issue or deny permissions.
3. The NBWL is chaired by the Prime Minister. It also comprises of a Standing Committee, headed by Union Environment Minister. The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 specifies that the committee should comprise of 10 eminent ecologists and five NGOs. The committee considers the merits of projects that come to it for scrutiny.