Forest encroachment policy to balance conservation, public interest: Himachal minister Jagat Singh Negi
Sub-committee to submit draft within a week in line with SC directions
Himachal Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi on Monday said the state government is working towards a balanced policy on encroachment of forest land that would protect ecological interests while safeguarding the rights of genuine occupants.
Chairing a high-level meeting with senior officers from the Revenue, Forest and Law Departments, the minister stressed that the proposed framework would be prepared strictly in accordance with the directions of the Supreme Court of India. He said the government was committed to evolving a clear, transparent and practical policy that reflects both environmental priorities and the concerns of affected citizens.
It was decided to constitute a sub-committee under the chairmanship of Additional Secretary (Revenue) Anil Chauhan. Officers from the Forest and Law Departments will serve as members. The panel has been tasked with examining the Supreme Court’s guidelines in detail and submitting a draft policy within one week.
Negi reiterated that the government remains committed to upholding welfare principles while ensuring full compliance with judicial directives. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Kamlesh Kumar Pant, PCCF (HoFF) Sanjay Sood and other senior officials.
