The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India organised a training programme in New Delhi for the Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers as part of the 14th – Mid Career Course (Phase III) of the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Dehradun. Addressing the officers, NHRC, India Chairperson, Justice Shri V Ramasubramanian emphasised the important role of Indian Forest Service officers in protecting the nation’s natural heritage. He said that they face the challenging task of balancing development needs with the imperatives of conservation. He said that to effectively discharge their duties, they need to understand the historical context of forest legislation, the evolving challenges, and the interplay between law, policy, and enforcement.
The Chairperson also highlighted the historical evolution of forest legislation from the British era to the present, emphasising the shifting balance between development and conservation. The discussion covered the impact of the 2013 Land Acquisition Act on forest land acquisition, which ultimately led to the 2023 amendment of the Forest Conservation Act.
He said that the courts have also played a crucial role in shaping forest conservation. The landmark T. N. Godavarman case of 1995, for instance, significantly curbed the timber industry’s impact on forest cover. This case highlighted the need not just for strong laws, but also for effective enforcement mechanisms. The court’s ongoing involvement in the Godavarman case, through the concept of ‘continuing mandamus,’ underscores the persistent challenges in balancing development and conservation.
NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal in his address said that history shows how moments of reflection can reshape the destiny and bring in transformation. Emperor Ashoka embraced a path of peace after the Kalinga War. Similarly, Gautama Buddha abandoned his privileges, attained enlightenment, and dedicated his life to guiding humanity. Mahatma Gandhi’s expulsion from a train led to a movement world-over that changed destiny of humanity.
Shri Lal said that human rights are the most basic need and we have to believe in them to protect the rights of everyone, particularly the marginalised. He underscored the collective commitment to the human rights principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution, notably Article 32, which guarantees equal rights irrespective of caste, gender, or religion. He highlighted the importance of leveraging early field experience as a foundation for the strategic development of policies in the later stages of one’s career.
Shri Lal also gave an overview of the Commission’s constitution as per the PHR Act, 1993 besides its various functions. He urged them to reflect on the knowledge they gained and carry it forward to make meaningful contributions to society. This was followed by an insightful Q & A session. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by NHRC, India Director, Lt Col Virender Singh.
