Balancing Conservation and Development: The Saranda Wildlife Sanctuary in Jharkhand

Directive to Notify Sanctuary Within 90 Days

The Supreme Court has directed the Jharkhand government to notify 31,468.25 hectares of the Saranda Game Sanctuary as the Saranda Wildlife Sanctuary within 90 days. This order aims to protect one of India's most intact sal forests while ensuring the rights of tribal communities in the region.

Ecological Significance of Saranda Forest

Saranda Forest is home to 23 mammal species, including the Asiatic elephant, four-horned antelope, mouse deer, and sloth bear, as well as 138 bird species. With 70% of the forest cover remaining intact, it is one of the finest sal-dominated ecosystems in Asia.

Safeguarding Tribal Rights and Cultural Heritage

The region is inhabited by the Ho, Munda, Oraon, and allied Adivasi communities, whose lives depend on forest resources. The Supreme Court emphasized that the rights of forest dwellers should not be affected, highlighting the importance of recognizing these rights for conservation and social justice.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Saranda Forest area to be declared a wildlife sanctuary within 90 days.
• Total area notified: 31,468.25 hectares as per 1968 Bihar notification.
• Mining banned within the sanctuary and 1 km around its boundary.
• Forest hosts 23 mammal and 138 bird species, including the Asiatic elephant.

Conservation Implications and Compliance Issues

The bench criticized the state for inconsistent positions on sanctuary notification, emphasizing the importance of legal protection and better monitoring. Conservationists see the directive as a turning point in ensuring habitat integrity and traditional forest stewardship practices.