Explanations –

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, requires prior approval from the Central Government for the use of any forest land for non-forest purposes, regardless of whether the forest is natural or man-made. The Act defines “forest land” broadly, encompassing all types of forests, including reserved forests, protected forests, and any area recorded as forest in government records.

Statement 2 is correct. The Supreme Court of India has interpreted Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, to include the right to a clean and healthy environment. This expansive interpretation ensures that environmental protection is integral to the right to life.

Source: The Hindu