Draft regulatory framework for conservation of wetlands
Recognizing the value of wetlands and taking cognizance of the fact that there does not yet exist a formal system for conservation and management and wise-use of wetlands, the National Environment Policy (NEP), 2006 seeks to set up a legally enforceable regulatory mechanism for identified valuable wetlands to prevent their degradation, enhance their conservation and wise-use by all the stakeholders. In pursuance of the policy resolution, a multidisciplinary expert group was set up in the Ministry of Environment and Forests which held a series of meetings to formulate a structure for regulatory framework for wetlands. After elaborate discussions on this issue, the Ministry came up with a draft regulatory framework for conservation of wetlands. The draft framework enlists some of the activities which are prohibited and others which need to be regulated. Categorization of wetlands has also been proposed on the basis of significance of the functions performed and for determining the extent and level of regulation. In the draft regulation, there is provision for creation of Wetlands Regulatory Authorities at the central, state and district level for granting clearance for permissible activity and for exercising regulatory functions. It is also proposed to have wetland appraisal committee for appraising the proposals for identification of new wetlands.