GOI on back foot for allowing private players in Forest Management post Aravalli protests?

Environment Ministry officials have clarified that recent amendments to the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) guidelines do not permit non-government entities to take over forest land management. A January 2, 2026, circular allows state governments to partner with private or government entities for afforestation and regeneration activities under approved working plans and state forest department supervision. These are classified as "forestry activities," exempting them from compensatory afforestation and net present value payments, with states free to set revenue-sharing terms.Opposition leaders like Congress's Jairam Ramesh allege the 2023 FCA changes enable privatization, risking commercialization of forests. Critics warn of weakened safeguards for ecosystems and forest-dependent communities, potentially prioritizing timber over biodiversity. The government insists oversight remains with state forest departments, aligning with restoration and climate goals, though debates intensify over ecological versus economic priorities.