Manipur Cracks Down On Illegal Entry Into Reserved Forests—Here's What That Means

The Manipur government has issued a strict ban on activities such as camping, trekking, picnicking, expeditions, and unauthorised entry within all reserved forest areas. Individuals and organisations must now obtain prior permission from the relevant authorities before undertaking any such activities.A Move To Protect Fragile EcosystemsThe decision comes amid rising concerns over threats to forest ecosystems, including illegal logging and an increased risk of forest fires. These protective measures aim to safeguard biodiversity and maintain ecological balance in the region’s vulnerable forest zones.The order follows the recent arrest of three individuals caught illegally felling trees in the Lourok Konjin Chin hills, part of the Thongam Mondum Reserved Forest in Kakching district. Acting on a tip-off, a Forest Department team led by the local Range Office apprehended the suspects on-site.In an official statement, the Divisional Forest Officer (Central Forest Division) highlighted specific zones under heightened protection, including the Langol Reserved Forest and the Punshilok area. No unauthorised activities will be permitted in these regions as part of immediate conservation efforts.Forest officials and range officers in Manipur have been directed to carry out regular patrols and enforce strict surveillance. Any violations will be dealt with firmly under the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and the Manipur Forest Rules, 2021. Offenders may face imprisonment for up to six months, fines, or both.What Are Reserved Forests – And Why Do They Matter?Reserved forests, one of the most strictly protected categories of forest land in India, play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and safeguarding natural resources. Managed entirely by the Forest Department, these zones are governed by provisions of the Indian Forest Act of 1927 and are designated for conservation with limited human interference. Unlike other types of forest areas, reserved forests are under complete government jurisdiction. The Forest Department oversees their management, sets regulations, and has the authority to grant or deny access for specific activities.The primary aim of reserved forests is ecological preservation. These landscapes support native wildlife, fragile ecosystems, and vital resources like water sources and indigenous flora, making them indispensable to environmental balance.Strict Restrictions ApplyMost activities—including hunting, grazing, and timber harvesting—are banned unless specifically authorised. Unauthorised access or use can result in penalties, including fines or imprisonment, under existing forest laws. Reserved forests also enjoy strong legal protection. The Indian Forest Act outlines clear penalties for violations, ensuring these areas remain shielded from exploitation.While both reserved and protected forests serve conservation purposes, the former is subject to stricter regulation. In protected forests, limited rights may be granted to local communities—such as grazing or collecting firewood—under certain conditions.Forests Under ThreatReserved forests in India are increasingly under threat from a range of human activities. A significant portion of these protected lands is currently encroached upon, posing a serious challenge to conservation efforts. Deforestation for agriculture, mining, and infrastructure projects—such as roads and railways—continues to fragment habitats and reduce forest cover. Illegal logging, forest fires, and the spread of invasive species further degrade forest ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and ecological stability.The expansion of linear infrastructure like highways and power lines disrupts wildlife corridors, restricting animal movement and impacting gene flow. For example, the Nallamalai forests in Andhra Pradesh are under pressure from highway projects, which affects several wildlife reserves, including areas near the Nagarjunasagar Tiger Reserve. In Punjab, the proposed industrial park in the Mattewara forest threatens both the forest and the Sutlej River, according to reports.Adding to reports, the draft National Forest Policy suggests allowing private sector access for production forestry, raising fears of commercial exploitation and biodiversity loss. These developments risk intensifying human-wildlife conflict and damaging essential ecosystem functions.