1. The Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest.
2. Hunting is not allowed in such areas.
3. People of such areas are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce.
4. People of such areas are allowed traditional agricultural practices.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect: The State Government will establish a Community Reserve management committee, which will be in charge of conserving, maintaining, and overseeing the community reserve in accordance with Section 36 D of the Wild-life Protection Act (WLPA). The committee will choose a chairman who will serve as the community reserve’s Honorary Wild Life Warden.
Statement 2 is correct: Community Reserves are designated to protect wildlife and biodiversity. Under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 hunting is strictly prohibited in all protected areas including Community Reserves. Section 9 of the Act prohibits hunting of wild animals listed in Schedules I, II, III, and IV.
Statement 3 is correct: In a Community Reserve, the collection of non-timber forest produce by the local communities is subject to the specific rules and regulations governing the Community Reserve. It may be regulated or restricted to ensure sustainable use and conservation of resources.
Statement 4 is incorrect: After a forest has been made into a community reserve, people cannot use it for agricultural practices, leave alone jhum cultivation.