Shimla: The Center for Environment and Disaster Management (CEDM) at Himachal Pradesh National Law University  hosted a  lecture titled "Forest Laws: Concerns and Challenges."

During the lecture, Sh. Krishan Kumar. A key speaker and a forest expert underscored the crucial role of forests in maintaining ecological balance.

He delved into the historical context, examining forest laws during the colonial era and transitioning to a discussion on post-independence forest policies and laws.

Notably, Kumar provided insights into key legislations, including the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

His discourse also covered measures for forest regeneration, focusing on the rights of forest dwellers, with a specific emphasis on the state of Himachal Pradesh.

The welcome and inaugural address were delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Nishtha Jaswal, Vice Chancellor of HPNLU, Shimla. Professor Jaswal highlighted the significance of the date, December 2, recalling the tragic Bhopal gas leak disaster of 1984

She urged attendees to draw lessons from the Bhopal incident and emphasized the need for people to volunteer for environmental protection.

Dr. Chandreshwari Minhas, the Director of the Center of Environment and Disaster, moderated the program, ensuring a smooth flow of discussions.

The lecture and discussions underscored the ongoing commitment in Himachal Pradesh towards understanding, implementing, and enhancing environmental policies for sustainable forest management and ecological well-being.