Punjab's Public Accounts Committee Calls for State-Specific Forest Policy to Address Environmental Crisis
In a significant move aimed at tackling the state's pressing ecological challenges, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha has strongly recommended the formulation of a dedicated forest policy for Punjab within a strict one-year timeframe. This recommendation comes in response to alarming declines in water levels and critically low forest cover across the region, highlighting an urgent need for tailored environmental strategies.
Committee's Recommendations and Timeline
The PAC, chaired by AAP MLA Dr. Inderbir Singh Nijjar, tabled its 220th report in the assembly on Wednesday. This comprehensive report addresses state appropriation accounts and audit observations from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) for the fiscal years 2016-17 and 2018-19. Within this document, the committee emphasized the necessity of a framework specifically designed to address Punjab's unique regional and ecological conditions, proposing a clear one-year deadline for the policy's development and implementation.
Forest Department's Opposition and PAC's Counterarguments
In its official response, the Punjab forest department opposed the creation of a separate state policy, arguing that forests are a concurrent subject under the Indian Constitution. The department contended that it is already effectively implementing the National Forest Policy and cited the central government's ongoing review of the draft National Forest Policy-2018 as a reason to deem a state-specific policy unnecessary.
However, the PAC robustly countered this stance by pointing to the successful adoption of independent forest policies by neighboring states, including Rajasthan, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh. The committee argued that while the National Forest Policy addresses macro-level issues, Punjab requires a customized roadmap to ensure meaningful environmental restoration. This need is particularly acute given the state's limited natural forest base and the specific recommendations outlined by the National Forest Commission in 2006.
Key Focus Areas and Additional Proposals
The PAC's recommendations extend beyond mere policy formulation. The committee has pushed for the establishment of aggressive and practical afforestation targets, aiming to significantly boost green cover across Punjab. This initiative is seen as a critical step toward mitigating the adverse effects of declining water tables and enhancing overall ecological health. The report underscores that a state-specific policy would provide a structured approach to address these environmental deficits, fostering sustainable development and resilience against climate-related challenges.
By advocating for a tailored forest policy, the PAC aims to bridge the gap between national guidelines and local ecological realities, ensuring that Punjab's unique environmental needs are met with precision and urgency. This move reflects a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of forest conservation, water resource management, and regional sustainability in the face of escalating ecological pressures.
