Extraction of natural gas and oil not mining activity, experts call this move of NBWL regressive
NEW DELHI: In a move that may have wider implications, the national board for wildlife (NBWL) — an apex body that takes calls on conservation issues — has decided not to treat extraction of natural gas or oil as a mining activity under existing law on mines & minerals regulation in green areas.
Taking a call on projects near Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary in Tripura, the standing committee of the board in its last meeting recommended the proposals for diversion of forest land by going ahead with the opinion of state advocate general and solicitor general (SG) of India.
Minutes of the meeting, put out by environment ministry in public domain on October 8, show that the SG in its opinion, sought by ONGC,
