WBCS Preliminary Examination 2023 — General Studies · Question 44 of 200

Answer: (C) Reserved Forest

Under the Indian Forest Act, 1927, Reserved Forests are the most restricted category: every activity (entry, grazing, collection of produce) is prohibited unless specifically permitted. In Protected Forests it is the other way round — activities are allowed unless specifically prohibited — and local people keep many rights. National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries are protected areas under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, where regulated public entry and tourism are allowed. Reserved forests make up more than half of India's recorded forest area; the third legal category is village or unclassed forest.