Community Reserves
Community Reserves of Meghalaya are areas of privately or community Owned land voluntarily offered by local communities for conservation and protections of Wildlife, Biodiversity and natural habitats.
Community Reserves are a vital category of Protected Areas notifies by the Government under the provisions of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with the consent of the land owners or local communities. Unlike traditional national parks or wildlife sanctuaries, community reserves are unique because they are conserved through community-based, voluntary efforts rather than government mandates.
Sacred Covenant for Community Reserve
Salient features of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) forged between the local Village Durbar/Clan, etc.,
and the Forests & Environment Department, for the constitution of Community Reserve.
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§ 01
Sole Lands Ownership
The absolute ownership of the community reserve lands remains strictly and solely with the village community or clan.
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§ 02
No State Claims
The Forests & Environment Department, Govt of Meghalaya, holds zero claims over land titles, sacred grove boundaries, or names.
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§ 03
Protected Land Use
Once notified, no change in the local land use pattern is permitted except under the explicit procedure of Section 36(C)(3) of Wild Life (protection) Act, 1972.
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§ 04
Protection of Wild Life
Complete prohibition of hunting or poaching inside declared Community Reserve boundaries to ensure animal safety.
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§ 05
Traditional Rites Maintained
Rites, traditional rituals, and cultural celebrations practiced from time immemorial continue with zero state interference, within the framework of Wild Life (protection) Act, 1972..
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§ 06
Community Management
Management of the Community Reserve is governed by the Community Reserve Management Committee (CRMC) notified by the Government under Sec 36D of Wild Life (protection) Act, 1972.
Community Reserves of Meghalaya
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