Question

Under which section of the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act‐ 2002, the conservation reserve and the community reserve are declared?

• A. Section 36A & 36C
• B. Section 33B & 34A
• C. Section 18A & 18B
• D. Section 5A & 5B

Hint:

Section 36A = Adjacent Govt land (Conservation Reserve). Section 36C = Community/Private land (Community Reserve). Both were 2002 additions to promote community-based conservation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks for the specific legal sections introduced by the 2002 amendment to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which authorized the government to designate "Conservation Reserves" and "Community Reserves."
Detailed Explanation:

• Wildlife Protection Act: The original 1972 Act focused primarily on National Parks and Sanctuaries. The 2002 Amendment introduced new categories to involve local communities and manage buffer zones.

• Conservation Reserves (Section 36A): These are declared by the State Government in any area owned by the Government, particularly areas adjacent to National Parks and Sanctuaries. They are established after consultation with local communities.

• Community Reserves (Section 36C): These are declared by the State Government on any private or community land, where the community or individual has volunteered to conserve wild life and its habitat. This is a crucial step toward participatory conservation.

• Analysis of other sections: Sections 18-35 generally deal with the declaration of Sanctuaries and National Parks. Section 5 deals with the appointment of the Director and other officers.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves are declared under Section 36A and 36C respectively.