Model Rules for Felling of Trees in Agricultural Lands

Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issues “Model Rules for Felling of Trees in Agricultural Lands” to simplify regulations and promote agroforestry, aiming to improve ease of doing business.

Benefits of Agroforestry

• Enhances rural livelihoods and soil health.
• Contributes to biodiversity conservation and increased tree cover.
• Supports water conservation and climate resilience.
• Reduces pressure on natural forests.

Streamlined Regulatory Framework

• Model Rules establish simplified procedures for land registration.
• Manages tree harvesting and transit to encourage farmer participation.

Economic Impact

• Promotes domestic timber production to meet demand.
• Provides raw materials for wood-based industries.
• Boosts exports in the sector.

Implementation and Oversight

• State Level Committee (under 2016 Wood-Based Industries Guidelines) to implement rules.
• Committee to guide states on promoting agroforestry and easing regulations.

National Timber Management System (NTMS) Portal

• Crucial component for applicants to register plantations.
• Facilitates online applications for tree felling.
• Allows periodic updates, geotagged photos for traceability, and hosts geo-tagged data.

Permit Issuance

• Verifying agencies conduct site inspections.
• Tree felling permits issued based on reports.
• Divisional Forest Officers supervise these agencies.

(Source: PIB)