Supreme Court Directs Jharkhand Government to Declare Saranda Forest as Wildlife Sanctuary

The Supreme Court of India has mandated the Jharkhand government to declare the Saranda forest a wildlife sanctuary, covering 31,468.25 hectares. This decision is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Papers 2 and 3, as it highlights the intersection of environmental law and policy. Last Updated: 2025-11-15

Key Facts About Saranda Forest

• Supreme Court of India directed the Jharkhand government to declare Saranda forest a wildlife sanctuary.
• The area to be declared is 31,468.25 hectares.
• Mining is prohibited inside national parks and within a one-kilometre buffer of their boundaries.
• The court upheld a 1968 notification from unified Bihar.
• Saranda forest is the largest Sal forest in Asia.
• Located near Jamshedpur, Jharkhand.
• The name “Saranda” means “land of seven hundred hills”.
• It spans approximately 900 square kilometers.
• Historically, it was a private hunting ground for the royal family of Seraikela.
• Accounts for 26% of India’s iron ore reserves.
• Predominantly composed of Sal (Shorea robusta).
• Supports diverse deciduous vegetation aiding in water cycles and carbon sequestration.
• Habitat for critically endangered and endemic species.
• Home to species like the Sal forest tortoise and four-horned antelope.
• Inhabited by Ho, Munda, Uraon, and allied Adivasi communities.
• Declaration marks a significant step towards biodiversity conservation.
• Emphasizes the importance of protecting ecologically significant areas.

India's Environmental Conservation Efforts

The directive to declare Saranda forest as a wildlife sanctuary underscores India's commitment to environmental conservation, aligning with national goals of preserving biodiversity and sustainable development. The forest's protection is vital for maintaining ecological balance and supporting the livelihoods of indigenous communities. Globally, India ranks among the top countries in biodiversity conservation efforts, reflecting its strategic environmental priorities.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Project Tiger: Aims to ensure a viable population of tigers in their natural habitats.
• Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act: Provides for afforestation and regeneration activities.
• National Biodiversity Action Plan: Focuses on biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations - Environmental policies and laws.
• GS Paper 3: Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management - Conservation, environmental pollution, and degradation.
• Prelims: Questions on the location, ecological significance, and legal status of Saranda forest.
• Mains: Analytical themes on biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and indigenous rights.

FAQ Section

• What is Saranda forest?

  Saranda forest is the largest Sal forest in Asia, spanning approximately 900 square kilometers in Jharkhand, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity and significant iron ore reserves.

• Why is Saranda forest important?

  The forest is crucial for ecological balance, supporting diverse species and aiding in water cycles and carbon sequestration. It also holds 26% of India's iron ore reserves.

• What are the key features of the Supreme Court's directive?

  The directive mandates the declaration of 31,468.25 hectares of Saranda forest as a wildlife sanctuary, reinforcing a 1968 notification and prohibiting mining activities within its boundaries.