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Introduction  

Given that deforestation raises carbon emissions that are hazardous to human health and worsens the climate catastrophe, it poses a growing danger to all life on Earth. In India, this practice has accelerated over the past few decades, leading to dire consequences for ecological balance. According to a 2023 report by United Kingdom-based Utility Bidder, India lost 668,400 hectares of forestry between 2015-2020, ranking second globally, right after Brazil. 

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Deforestation impact on India’s ecological balance in the following ways 

• Loss of Biodiversity: The clearing of forests in ecologically sensitive zones leads to the destruction of habitats for countless species, thereby reducing biodiversity. For example, the deforestation in the Western Ghats threatens endangered species like the lion-tailed macaque.
• Water Cycle Disruption: Forests are vital in maintaining the water cycle by aiding in cloud formation and groundwater recharge. Removal of forests in the catchment areas of rivers like the Ganges and the Yamuna can lead to reduced water levels, affecting millions.
• Soil Erosion: Forests act as natural buffers against soil erosion. Deforestation in hilly areas such as Himachal Pradesh can result in landslides and soil degradation, making the land less arable, impacting agricultural sector.
• Climate Change Acceleration: Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. Deforestation releases this stored carbon, contributing to global warming. For example, the loss of forests in the Eastern Himalayas adds to India’s carbon footprint.
• Impact on Livelihood: Forests support the livelihoods of millions, especially tribal communities. Their loss affects these communities directly, as seen in the forced migration of tribes like the Baigas in Madhya Pradesh due to deforestation. 
• Disruption in Local Climate: The loss of green cover in cities like Bangalore has led to an increase in local temperatures, affecting the quality of life.
• Increased Flood Risk: Forests act as natural barriers that slow down water runoff during rains. Their absence can increase the risk of flash floods, as witnessed in the floods in Kerala in 2018, partly attributed to deforestation.
• Air Pollution: Forests act as natural air purifiers. Their removal increases the level of pollutants in the air, contributing to air quality decline, as observed in cities like Delhi, where the loss of the Aravali forest cover is a concern.

Legal frameworks that India has to counter deforestation 

• Indian Forest Act, 1927: One of the oldest pieces of legislation aimed at forest conservation, it gives the government the power to declare any area as reserved forest, protected forest, or village forest.
• Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980: This landmark Act prohibits the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes by the state governments without prior central government approval.
• Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers Act, 2006 (Forest Rights Act): It recognizes the rights of the forest-dwelling communities, aiming to make conservation more inclusive. Eg: The rejection of Vedanta’s mining project in the Niyamgiri Hills of Odisha was under this Act.
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: This Act not only focuses on animal protection but also includes plants. Under this Act, no one can occupy or cultivate any land in a sanctuary, indirectly safeguarding forests. 
• National Forest Policy, 1988: This policy aims for a minimum of one-third of India’s land area to be under forest or tree cover. It prioritises maintaining ecological balance and conserving natural heritage. 
• Environment Impact Assessment (EIA), 1994: Any developmental project that involves deforestation has to undergo an EIA to weigh the environmental costs. For example, the expansion of the coal mines in Chhattisgarh was put on hold until the EIA was scrutinised.
• National Green Tribunal Act, 2010: The National Green Tribunal hears cases relating to environmental issues, including illegal deforestation. It has the power to provide relief and compensation to the victims of environmental damage.
• The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016: This act ensures that any industrial project leading to deforestation must involve a compensatory afforestation program. For example, industries in Jharkhand have been made to adopt compensatory afforestation measures.
• State-specific Legislations: Apart from national laws, many states have their own forest laws and policies that cater to local needs. For instance, the Tamil Nadu Preservation of Private Forest Act, 1949, aims to preserve private forests in the state.

Conclusion 

Despite the grave challenges posed by deforestation, India’s comprehensive legal framework provides a robust foundation for tackling this issue. With focused implementation and public participation, there is a strong potential to achieve a sustainable balance between development and ecological conservation.

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