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Agasthyamalai conservation case: SC directs temporary and non-resident silk cotton cultivators not eligible for protection under FRA Act

The Hindu Nov 07, 2026 at 01:47 AM IST India

AI summary

The Supreme Court ruled that temporary residents and non-residents cultivating silk cotton in the Agasthyamalai biosphere are ineligible for Forest Rights Act protection. The court emphasized that commercial cultivation contradicts the definition of minor forest produce and ordered the CEC to review this classification.

Key takeaways

  • Temporary and non-resident silk cotton cultivators are excluded from Forest Rights Act protection.
  • The court rejected the state's claim that silk cotton is a naturally occurring minor forest produce.
  • A special committee chaired by former CJI B.R. Gavai will supervise the expeditious disposal of claims.
  • The CEC must examine the National Highway Authority's proposal for the Puliara–Edamon tunnel section.
Read the original at The Hindu

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