Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a)        whether it is a fact that Karnataka Government’s proposal for the inclusion of Bhandra Wildlife Sanctuary and neighbouring areas under the Mysore Elephant Reserve, has been pending with Government since February, 2008, the proposal being based on Government’s guidelines of June, 2002; and

(b)        if so, the present status of the proposal and by when the same is likely to be cleared?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) & 9(b)         A proposal for the inclusion of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and neighbouring areas under the Mysre Elephant Reserve was received from State Government of Karnataka only in October, 2008.  In such cases, proposal is examined by experts followed by site inspection if required before taking a decision.  The present proposal has been referred for the expert advice before taking final view in the matter.