The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, recently hosted a training programme in New Delhi for Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers as part of the 14th Mid Career Course (Phase III) at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Dehradun.
During the event, NHRC India Chairperson, Justice Shri V. Ramasubramanian, addressed the officers, stressing the critical role they play in safeguarding the nation's natural heritage.
He acknowledged the challenges they face in balancing development needs with the necessity of conservation and emphasized the importance of understanding the historical background of forest legislation, evolving challenges, and the dynamic relationship between law, policy, and enforcement to carry out their duties effectively.
Justice Ramasubramanian also shed light on the evolution of forest legislation, from the British era to the present day, underscoring the changing balance between development and conservation efforts.
He discussed the impact of the 2013 Land Acquisition Act on forest land acquisition, which eventually led to the 2023 amendment of the Forest Conservation Act.
He pointed out that the courts have played a pivotal role in shaping forest conservation, citing the landmark 1995 T. N. Godavarman case, which helped curb the timber industry's detrimental effects on forest cover. The case underscored the need for not just robust laws but also efficient enforcement mechanisms.
The court’s continued involvement in the case, through the principle of 'continuing mandamus,' highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving a balance between development and conservation.
In his address, NHRC India Secretary General Bharat Lal emphasized the transformative power of reflection in history. He cited examples such as Emperor Ashoka, who chose a path of peace following the Kalinga War, Gautama Buddha, who renounced his privileges and sought enlightenment to guide humanity, and Mahatma Gandhi, whose expulsion from a train sparked a worldwide movement that changed the course of history.
Shri Lal underlined that human rights are a fundamental necessity and that safeguarding the rights of all, particularly the marginalized, is essential.
He reaffirmed the collective commitment to the human rights principles outlined in the Indian Constitution, especially Article 32, which guarantees equal rights regardless of caste, gender, or religion. He also highlighted the significance of early field experience in shaping the strategic development of policies throughout one’s career.
Shri Lal provided an overview of the NHRC's constitution under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHR Act), 1993, along with its various functions.
He encouraged the officers to reflect on their acquired knowledge and carry it forward to make meaningful societal contributions.
The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session and a vote of thanks by NHRC India Director, Lt Col Virender Singh.