Lakshadweep Gazette, No. 28, 03 March 2021

VOL. LVI. No. 28 THURSDAY 15th OCTOBER, 2020 / 23rd ASVINA, 1942 (SAKA)

Government of India Lakshadweep Administration (DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND FOREST)

Kavaratti Island, Dated : 14-10-2020.

NOTIFICATION

F.No. 2/22/2020-E&F:- The Administrator, Union Territory of Lakshadweep Administration is pleased to publish the Lakshadweep Forest Code-2020 of the Department of Environment and Forest, Union Territory of Lakshadweep Administration and is declared as the Official Forest Code of the department with effect from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette.

This is issued with the approval of Hon'ble Administrator vide Diary No. 1752, dated 07-10-2020.

Sd/- (DAMODHAR A.T., IFS) Secretary, Environment & Forest and Chief Wildlife Warden.

LGP.Kvt. G-¹³⁸⁹/¹⁰ -²⁰/⁵⁰ PRICE: 75 PAISETHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 2

CHAPTER – I

ORGANISATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF

ENVIRONMENT AND FOREST

1 – GENERAL

1.1 Introduction

Natural ecosystems are a dynamic ecosystem consisting of plants, animals & microorganisms safeguarding the ecological security of the nation. It provides various ecosystem services essential for the very survival of the human beings.

The aim of the Department of Environment & Forest in UT of Lakshadweep is department and services ensure environmental stability and maintenance of ecological balance including atmospheric equilibrium which are vital for sustenance ofall life forms, human, animals and plants. This policy will be instrumental in strengthening ecological security, sustainable ecological management, and participatory management. This also ensures to safeguard the ecological and livelihood security of people, of the present and future generations, based on sustainable management of the ecosystem services thereby the stability of the fragile eco-systems.

1.2 Extent of application of the Code

The Department of Environment & Forest is the nodal Department in the administrative structure of U.T. of Lakshadweep Administration for planning, formulation and implementation of policies and programmes for conservation, protection and management of the environment, bio-diversity, forest and wildlife and execution of all the Wildlife and Environmental Acts and Laws in the whole of Lakshadweep islands and also within the territorial waters of Lakshadweep islands, under the administration of the U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands, hereinafter referred to as the Administration. The rules, guidelines contained in this code are applicable to the Department of Environment and Forests, U.T. of Lakshadweep Administration in the whole of following Lakshadweep Islands, submerged banks along with its territorial waters as defined from time to time.

1.2.1. Lakshadweep Islands and lagoons

1.2.2. Submerged banks

Source: Table 1.2.1 and 1.2.2 – Basic statistics LakshadweepTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 5

1.3. Division of the Territory into Administrative Beats, Organization

The administrative head of the Department is the Conservator of Forests, who is the technical adviser to the Administration in all matters relating to Environment and Forest.

He is also the Chief Wildlife Warden and Ex-Officio Secretary, Environment & Forest, U.T. of Lakshadweep Administration, and exercises all the statutory powers confined by Act and Laws in this capacity along with such powers as are specifically assigned to him by the Administrator, U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands and / or Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India by general or special order. For smooth functioning of the Department, various administrative management beats are set up. For further expansion or better management Conservator of Forests by order alter or add any of the administrative setup described under. For easy Administrative management, the entire Lakshadweep is divided into two territorial zones.

1) Lakshadweep South Zone

2) Lakshadweep North Zone

Uninhabited islands, uninhabited coral reefs and submerged banks will be attached to the ranges by the executive order of the Conservator of Forests.

1.4. Administrative Set up

The Conservator of Forests is the head of the Department of Environment & Forest establishment in all the administrative as well as technical execution of all the orders, ActsTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 7 and Laws in the Paryawaran Bhavan (Head Office) at Kavaratti. The Conservator of Forests will be Chief Wildlife Warden, who executes all the statutory powers vested with him by the Act & Law. The Conservator of Forests as Ex-Officio Secretary, Environment & Forest shall act and execute in his capacity in all the administrative establishment rules along with such powers specifically assigned to him by the Administrator, U.T. of Lakshadweep Administration. The Conservator of Forests will be assisted by the Deputy Conservator of Forests(DCF), in all matters relating to administration and technical. In order to have the smooth functioning of the administration and technical execution of all the works of the Department of Environment & Forest the following seven divisions are established.

1. Establishment Division

2. Planning & Statistics Division

3. Environment Division

4. Forestry Division

5. Wildlife Division

6. Policy & Legal Division

7. Research & Development DivisionTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 8

1.4.1. Administrative Set Up for the Technical Officers

Conservator of Forests (Ex Officio Secretary (E&F) and Chief Wildlife Warden)

Deputy Conservator of Forests

Territorial Zones

Head Quarter (Kavaratti)

7 6 5 4 3 2 1 A B

Range Kalpeni

Range Minicoy

Range Kavaratti

Range Androth

Range Agatti

Range Amini

Range Kadamat

Range Kiltan

Range Chetlet

Range Bitra A . Lakshadweep North ZoneKavaratti Head Quarter B. Lakshadweep South ZoneKavaratti Head Quarter

1. Establishment Division 2. Planning & Statistics Division 3. Environment Division 4. Forestry Division 5. Wildlife Division 6. Policy & Legal Division 7. Research & Development DivisionTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 9

1.4.2. Administrative Set Up for the Ministerial Staff

Conservator of Forests (Ex Officio Secretary (E&F) and Chief Wildlife Warden)

Deputy Conservator of Forests

Range Forest Officer (Establishment)

Range Forest Officer (Planning & Statistics)

Office Superintendent (Planning & Statistics)

Office Superintendent (Establishment)

UDC

UDC

LDC

LDC

MSE

MSETHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 10

1.4.3. Administrative Set Up for the Beat Office

Conservator of Forests (Ex Officio Secretary (E&F) and Chief Wildlife Warden)

Deputy Conservator of Forests

Assistant Conservator of Forests

Range Forest Officer

Forester

Car Driver

Guard

Feildmen

Watcher

MSETHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 11

1.5. General Control of Marine Wildlife Habitat

The general management of the wildlife and wildlife habitat other than those exempted by a specific order of Administration from time to time is under the control of the Conservator of Forests, U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands.

1.6 Administrative charges

1.6.1 Territorial charges are classified as below:-

Controlling charges - Zone

Executive charges - Ranges

Sub-Executive charges - Islands/Beats/Beats

1.6.2 Officer in Charges

These charges will ordinarily be held by the following Rank of Officers:

Forest Zone- Assistant Conservator of Forests/Range Forest Officers

Ranges - In the rank of Foresters or above

Islands/Beats- Foresters or Forest Guards

1.6.3 Deviations from the prescribed rule when allowable

Whenever it is considered necessary for administration or financial or other reasons, the Administration may, as a temporary measure, permit deviations from these provisions in regard to Forest zone or ranges.

1.6.4 Constitution of Zones, Ranges & Beats

The additional constitution of Forest zones / ranges will be regulated with the approval of the Secretary Environment & Forest. The arrangement of Ranges into Subdivisions/Beats will be regulated by the ACF/Range Forest Officers.

1.6.5 Classification of Establishments

Permanent Establishment includes all Officers & staff of any rank who are required for the ordinary administration of forests and who are permanently employed in the department. Temporary Establishment consists of Officers and staff required toTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 12 supplement the permanent establishments whenever there is a temporary expansion of their duties.

1.6.6. Permanent Establishment of Non- Gazetted Service.

The Conservator of Forests will be the department head and control over the entire establishment. The Annual Confidential Reports shall be governing by the Conservator of Forests as per the hierarchical rank and reporting officers and the required orders in this regard will be issued from time to time. The Conservator of Forests shall exe cute all the powers vested with him as per GFR for the pay of salary, wages, annual increment, promotion etc.

1.6.7. Temporary Establishment.

Temporary Establishment will be sanctioned by the Administrator.

1.6.8 Transfer of Establishment

The Secretary/ Conservator of Forests have the Power to transfer establishment from one Forest Zone/ Ranges/Islands/Beats to another, as occasion requires.

1.6.9 Personal conduct of Officers &Staff.

The Central Civil Services (Classification, Control & Appeal) Rules 1965, All India Service Conduct Rules 1968 are applicable to the permanent, temporary Establishment and All India Service Officers of the Department of Environment & Forests, U.T. of Lakshadweep Administration.

'B' ORGANISATION OF THE ENVIRONMENT &FOREST DEPARTMENT

1.7. Constitution of the Environment &Forest Establishments:

The Environment &Forest Establishment is comprised of :-

(i) The Indian Forest Service

(ii) The U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands Forest Gazetted Service

(iii) The U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands Forest Non-Gazetted Service (Executive) (iv) The U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands Forest Non-Gazetted(Ministerial) Service.

(v) The U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands Forest contractual postsTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 13

1.7.1 Indian Forest Service consists of: -

(i) Conservator of Forests 1 post

(ii) Deputy Conservator of Forests 1 post

1.7.2 U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands Forest Gazetted Executive Service consists of: -

➢ Assistant Conservator of Forests 3 posts

1.7.3. U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands Forest Non-Gazetted Executive Service consists

of:

i. Range Forest Officers 9 posts

ii. Foresters 14 posts

iii. Forest Guards 31 posts

iv. Forest Car Driver 2 posts

1.7.4 Other Non-Gazetted service consists of:

i. Fieldmen 10 posts

ii. MSE (Technical) 5 posts

iii. Helper 1 post

iv. Boat driver 3 posts

v. Boat Lascar 6 posts

1.7.5. U.T.of Lakshadweep Islands – Forest - Ministerial Establishment consists of:

i. Office Superintendent 2 posts

ii. Upper Division Clerk 1 post

iii. Lower Division Clerk 1 post

iv. Stenographer 1 post

1.8 VEHICLE OF CONSERVATOR OF FORESTS: -

The Government Vehicle with Departmental Flag (Red & Green Colour with Logo) is permissible for the Conservator of Forests and Deputy Conservator of Forests for official purpose.

1.9 DEPARTMENT LOGO AND COLOUR CODE: -

1.9.1 Department of Environment & Forest logo is notified in the Gazette and the copy of the notification is attached as Appendix IITHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 14 1.9.2 Diagonal Red and Green Colour with LOGO can be used for all purposes/functions of the Department.

1.10 Hoisting of National Flag at Paryavaran Bhawan

The Forester, Establishment Division in charge of the Paryavaran Bhawan, Kavaratti will be responsible for maintaining the National Flag in front of the ParyavaranBhawan every day as per the existing Government orders in force. Moreover, Flag Post and hoisting of flag everyday at the Headquarter of Lakshadweep PARYAVARAN BHAWAN by following all the protocol under NATIONAL FLAG CODE 2002.

1.11 MEDALS/AWARDS FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE

The Meritorious Service Awards will be presented to the Outstanding Range Forest Officer/Forester/Forest Guard/Forest Car Driver, who have a record of significant contribution to voluntary standardization and who have demonstrated outstanding service in enabling the department to achieve the objectives for which it was founded. This is to confer honor in recognition of conspicuous good work, work of outstanding nature, gallantry, devotion to duty etc in various forms to. The recommendations for these are to be initiated by the Conservator of Forests/Secretary (E&F)/Chief Wildlife Warden. This is being awarded every year during Republic Day/Independence Day with the approval of U.T. of Lakshadweep Administration. The details of honor/awards/medals as follows: - 1. Administrators Gold Medal with Certificate for Outstanding Range Forest Officer.

2. Administrators Gold Medal with Certificate for Outstanding Forester.

3. Administrators Gold Medal with Certificate for Outstanding Forest Guard.

4. Administrators Gold Medal with Certificate for Outstanding Forest Car Driver.

1.12 Gradation list of Forest Officers and Subordinates: -

The classified list of the Gazetted Officers as well as the non-Gazetted Executives and Ministerial staff in the Department as on the first January will be issued annually by the Conservator of Forests and copies thereof will be supplied to the Administration.

1.13 Appointment of Forest Staff to the Department of Environment & Forest U.T.

of Lakshadweep Islands:

First appointment to Services in Department of Environment and Forest, UTL Islands shall be as per Recruitment Rules applicable to the respective category.

1.14 Examination to be passed by Departmental officers:

The Forest Non-Gazetted Executive Service officials should pass Departmental examinations in the following subjects within 24 months of joining service. They will not be allowed to draw any further increment till they pass all the department examination in the subjects mentioned below:

➢ Law

➢ Land Revenue

➢ Office Procedure &Accounts

➢ Establishment Matters

➢ Scuba diving certification

The syllabus will be prescribed by the Conservator of Forests from time to time.

1.15 Leave, Pension

1.15.1 Leave and pension for all staff will be governed by the Fundamental and Supplementary Rules and the New Pension Rules. In case of members of Indian Forest Service, their leave and pension will be governed by the provisions of the Rules applicable to the members of the All India Service issued /revised from time to time.

1.15.2 Casual leaves up to 5 days can be sanctioned by the respective immediate superiors. Earned Leave up to 15 days can be sanctioned by the Assistant Conservator of Forests of the Zone in charges. Earned Leave more than 15 days up to 30 days can be sanctioned by the Deputy Conservator of Forests and above 30 days by the Conservator of Forests.

1.16. Composite Seniority List

The composite seniority list for all Frontline Staff posted subsequent to 2018 who have the mandatory basic training with a minimum period of09 months or more is prepared with 75% weightage for the initial recruitment exam marks and 25% weightage for training marks, those who pass the departmental test. Subsequently, this seniority list will be referred for all future promotion.

CHAPTER –II

MANAGEMENT AND WORKING OF MARINE FOREST &

PROTECTED AREAS

2.1 GENERAL ECOLOGY

2.1.1 The whole Lakshadweep islands are made up of Coral formation under atoll category and have very unique and fragile eco-system. The aquatic realm is remarkable for the prolific reefs and the diversity of marine life. The marine biodiversity of the islands is predominantly and directly related to the diversity of the coral reefs. Coral reefs are decidedly more productive in primary and secondary levels of biomass formation than even an evergreen forest on land, protectors of coast lines and coastal populations, coral reefs provide habitat, breeding ground, shelter, nesting place and niche for many protected species like coelenterate, holothurians, echinoderms, mollusks, sponges and marine turtles, mammals and many other fauna & flora. Many avian species also directly depend on inter tidal regions. Due to these high biodiversity and economic value, coral reefs are facing an unlimited & very high stress of disturbance, pollutions, over fishing, tourism etc besides the natural threats.

2.1.2 The coral reefs exhibit extra ordinary biodiversity. There are more than 600 species of coral diversity had been recorded including hermatypic and ahermatypiccorals.

At about 148 species of corals had been recorded from Lakshadweep. Exports opined that many more species can be recorded which all are globally significant in terms of their diversity. There about 8 species of coral have been reported only from Lakshadweep.

Coral reefs of Lakshadweep also support many number of biodiversity. It includes 91 species of sponges, 114 species of seaweeds, 7 species of sea grass, 150 species of crustaceans, 225 species of echinoderms, 424 species of mollusks, about 300 species of ornamental fishes, 601 species of fishes. Besides, it also support many numbers of species of bacteria, fungi, phytoplankton, zooplankton and many species of gorgonides, polychaetes, reptiles etc. (data not available). Its associate biodiversity also include 4 species of Turtles and 4 species of mammals. Coral reefs also offer feeding and breeding grounds for lot of birds and more than 101 species of birds had been recorded form these Islands. There are many species of birds which are exclusively depending on coral reefs ecosystem. Almost all the animals mentioned above are classified under schedule-I of theTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 17 wildlife (Protection) Act, as many species of mammals in Part I, amphibians and reptiles including turtles in Part II, 8 species of fishes in part II A, many crustaceans in part IV, coelenterates including all species of corals along with 5 genus in part IV A, 9 species of mollusks in part IV B and all holothurians in part IV C. Many others are listed in Schedule-II, III & IV.

2.1.3 Coral reefs are mountain like geological structures found in clear shallow waters on both sides of the equator (latitudes 35N to 32S). They are formed by millions of calcium secreting cnidarians in association with other calcium secreting plants and animals.

Because of the ability of the coral builders to grow in well lit environment, clear waters with good circulation and stable physico-chemical environment their area of occurrence is restricted to only 2% area on the earth surface. Because of the pristine and stable conditions prevailing around coral reefs and also because of their ability to provide shelter to the associates because of their varied shapes and sizes coral reefs attract different kinds of animals and primarily fishes and shellfishes with a promise to provide them breeding and nursery grounds. Representatives of almost all the phyla in animal kingdom are found in coral reef areas. A 5 square meter reef microcosm sampled in the Caribbean yielded 534 species from 27 phyla, with a further 30 percent of species not fully identified (Spalding et. al. 2001). Hence, these highly productive ecosystems in the coastal zone are designated as Nature"s natural sanctuaries of Biological diversity and even nicked named as Paradises underwater. The islands are coral formations grown on the 1500 m to 4000 m high Laccadive-Chagos submarine ridge. This ridge may be a continuation of the Arravali Mountains and the islands are understood to be remnants of the submerged mountain cliffs. Lakshadweep islands along with the Maldives and the Chagos Archipelagoes form an interrupted chain of coral atolls and reefs on a continuous submarine bank covering a distance of over 2000 km.

2.1.4 About 105 species of hard corals, 86 species of macrophytes, 10 species of Anomuran crabs, 81 species of Brachyuran crabs, 155 species of Gastropods, 24 species of Bivalves, 13 species of Asteroids, 6 species of Ophioroids, 23 species of Holothurions, 15 species of Echinoids, 603 species of fishes and 4 species of Turtles are recorded from Lakshadweep (Satyanarayana& Alfred 2007). Lakshadweep islands generally north south oriented with a larger lagoon in western side and a smaller or no lagoon in the eastern side.

Normally the island lies on the eastern side reef. The entire reef areas are exposed during low tide. A shallow water lagoon will be between island and western side reef. Deeper side of reef falling down to 200 mtrs to 2000mts forming a wall. The lagoons may be formed by estuary outputs and delta channels completely blocked by sand bars, sand pits or sand dunes, which results in limited access to sea. In Lakshadweep islands the lagoon are very different from the mainland in the sense that they are actually coral reef lagoon where the water mass got enclosed in an atoll or within barrier reef with clear tidal flow with outside sea over the reefs or through the reef openings. All lagoons are geometrically similar in shape and orientation, with relatively largely opening at the north. Distribution of currents is similar in all the lagoons. Very weak currents are observed in the southern part of the lagoon. The sediments in suspension and bed load are transported southwardTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 19 during the flood tide causing deposition along the southern part of the island. This phenomenon is evidence almost in all the islands.

The general profile of the cross section of island is shown below.

2.2 Constitution of Protected Areas

2.2.1 Legal Status: All the Protected Areas, for the purpose of Protection, Conservation & Management, as per the Gazette notifications are either classified into Wild Life Sanctuaries or National Parks. Zone/Range/Island/Beat wise area statement and legal notifications and rules made under various section of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

1. Community Reserves

2. Conservation Reserves

3. Wildlife Sanctuary

4. National Park

2.3 The following areas are notified by the Administration.

a. World"s First Sea Cucumber Protected Area declared in Lakshadweep – Dr KK Mohammed Koya Sea Cucumber Conservation reserve, Cheriyapani with an area of 239 Sq Km Appendix III

b. The first Protected Area is Pitty Bird Sanctuary, which was notified on 25.01.2019 and now dedicated to legendary Birdman of India Dr.Salim Ali and declared as Dr.Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Pitti. Appendix IVTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 20 c. Lakshadweep First Marine Birds Conservation Reserve of the Country – PM Sayeed Marine Birds Conservation Reserve with an Area of 62 Sq km.

Appendix V

d. Lakshadweep Declared Single largest (Global) marine Conservation Reserve in between Amini and Pitti Archipelago with an area of 344 Sq Km – Shri A Attakoya Thangal Marine Conservation Reserve. Appendix VI

2.4 Maps

In each Zone/Range/Island/Beat, the following maps will be maintained and one or more copies of each should be mounted in book form: -

A Zone /Range/Island Forest reference map on the scale of 1:25000 showing all reserves, roads, forest buildings and stations, range boundary and other items pertaining to the administration of the forests.

A Range Forest reference map, posted as above, but in greater detail, and showing name of Island, Duties & Responsibilities of „Forest Guards", „Foresters" &headquarters etc.

Each Protected Area will have a Separate Management Plan. And all the activities and management of Protected Areas are taken up in accordance with the Management Plan.

2.5 Annual Plan of Operations

At a convenient period before the date fixed for the submission of the budget, the Range/Zonal/Island Forest Officers shall prepare an Annual Plan of Operation for the next ensuing financial year as per instructions of HQ, Kavaratti.

i. Regular patrolling

ii. Coral reef monitoring

iii. Marine Wildlife census

iv. Beach cleaning

v. Lagoon cleaning

vi. Celebration of Important Days

vii. Social forestry activities

viii. Swachh Lakshadweep AbhiyanTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 21

CHAPTER – III

PROTECTED AREA MANAGEMENT

Ecologically critical, biologically rich and geo-morphologically unique area, both in land and in coastal and marine realm have been constituted as protected Areas in the form of Park and Sanctuaries. A list of all Protected Area declared as Sanctuary and Park under Section 26(A) and 35 (4) of the Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972, is given at Appendix- III to VI

3.1 Register of Protected Areas

Copies of all notifications which have been issued in declaring the area as a Protected Area under various section of the Wildlife (P) Act 1972 should be kept for each Forest / Wildlife Division in a bound volume to be called as the Register of PAs and each notification should be numbered consecutively according to the date on which it takes effect.

3.2 Maps of Protected Areas

In each Zone/Range/Island/Beat, the following maps will be maintained and one or more copies of each should be mounted in book form.

3.2.1 A Zonal Protected Area reference map on the scale of 1:25000 showing all the Protected Areas under the Zone, Range, forest roads jetties, water ways, building and stations, and other items pertaining to the administration of the Protected Areas.

3.2.2 A Range wise map of Protected Areas, posted as above, but in greater detail, and showing mangroves, coral reefs, beaches, jetties etc.

3.2.3 Separate maps for each Protected Areas, showing topographical and villages/Panchayaths/Wards, rights of way, roads and stations, jetties, mangroves, tower etc. These maps are to be properly handed and taken over during transfer and posting of the Zonal/Range/Island charges.

3.3. Control / Protection of Wildlife

Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 & Wildlife Protection Rules, 1973 provide the necessary frame work for control of wild life in certain cases and for special purposes, entry in the Protected Areas for various purposes including plying of vessels, vehicles for tourism , photography inside the PAs, , prevention and detection of offence which may be amended from time to time.

3.4 State Board for Wild Life

The State Board for Wild Life constituted for U.T of Lakshadweep Islands under Section 6 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972 advises the Administration on the matters related to the selection and management of areas to be declared as Protected Areas, formulation of the policy of protection and conservation of wild life and specified plants, any matter relating to any schedule, the measures to be taken for harmonizing the needs of the public with the protection and conservation of wildlife and in any matter that may be referred to be it.

CHAPTER –IV

ACCOUNT OF STORES AND OTHER ASSETS

4. Account of Stock:-

4.1 Purchase of stores and materials

All store and materials are to be purchased as per the provisions of GFR and within the powers delegated by the Delegation of Financial Powers Rules. In all cases, suitable proposal is to be moved to the Conservator of Forests through the controlling Officer.

4.2 Accounts of Office Stores, Tools &Plants of the Department

Office stores, tools will generally be classified as follows:

➢ Surveying & other instruments.

➢ Machinery.

➢ Tools

➢ Furniture.

➢ Miscellaneous.

A Register of all receipts and disposal of stores, Tools & Plants, classified as above shall be kept in each Range offices. The register must contain all receipts and disposals of the articles with closing balance at the end of each month. Each article of furniture should be marked with a number which will be its permanent number in the register. The stock shown in the Register should be verified at least once a year by the head of the office. The head of each range will be responsible for the proper maintenance of the registers and correctness of the verification report.

4.3 Purchases should be made in the most Economical Manner

Stores should not be purchased in small quantities. Annual requirements should be obtained from all Ranges and indent placed with the Conservator of Forest for as many items as possible.

4.4 Receipt of Stores

All stores should be examined, counted, and measured or weighed as the case may be when the delivery is taken. The respective Store Keeper should take the stores in their charge and should see that the quantities are correct and quality is good. They should alsoTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 24 record a certificate to this effect. Quality/specification for machineries, watercrafts etc., may be examined by the technical authority, in case the Store Keeper is not able to judge the items.

4.5 Issue of Stores

The Stores Keeper before the issue of the stores should see that the indent has been prepared properly and signed by the authorized persons.

4.6 Register of Buildings

An account must be kept at forest Headquarters, the details of departmental buildings in the Register of permanent buildings prescribed for the purpose.

CHAPTER – V

DUTIES OF OFFICERS

5.1 Conservator of Forests cum Secretary, Environment & Forest and Chief

Wildlife Warden:-

The Conservator of Forests is also the Ex-Officio Secretary, Environment and Forest and Chief Wildlife Warden, U.T. of Lakshadweep Administration, and exercises in this capacity only such powers as are specifically assigned to him by the Administrator, U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands and / or Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India by general or special order. All Divisions/ Divisional Heads of the department are under his direct overall supervision, control and monitoring in every aspects with more emphasis on protection of environment and marine wildlife habitat in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep Islands.

5.2 Assistant Conservator of Forests

Divisional/Zonal Head of the Department of Environment & Forests. Manage District Headquarter & administrative functions, monitoring flying squad, attending courts, Parliament questions and drawing & disbursing. Make a record of the research and development activities, monitoring the status of coral reefs, study on migratory species like turtle, birds etc. Attending as per the sub-section (3-A), and (8) of section 50 only ACFs have powers to execution of bonds, investigate the cases, enforce the attendance of witness, to receive the record of evidence and issue of search warrants of the Wildlife crimes. They will be the reporting officers of the Range Forest officers and Foresters.

5.3 Range Forest Officer: -

Range Forest Officer is responsible for submitting and formulation of plan and policies of the Department. . He/She will be in charge of each administrative division of the department. He/ She shall also be responsible for the proper performance of the subordinate staff posted under him. He/ She is responsible for the execution of all works of the Range in charge of the Forester and other executive staff and workers posted in that rage allotted to him/ her. He/ She must carry out his inspections in detail and see that all his subordinates do their work properly. In the event serious misconduct of anyTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 26 subordinate, the Range Forest Officers should report the case to Conservator of Forest for disciplinary action through the Assistant Conservator of Forests of respective Zone. Range Forest Officer shall be responsible for writing ACR for all the executive / Ministerial staff posted under him, furnishing their integrity certificate as well as performance certificate.

5.4 Forester: -

Foresters are in charge of the island ranges allotted to them. They shall conduct regular patrolling, stop all illegal activities and detect the offences in their jurisdiction.

They are responsible for the execution of all works in the range with the help of executive staff and workers posted under him, according to the instructions and orders of Conservator of Forest. They will be responsible for effective supervision of all activities in their jurisdiction. They are responsible for the works related to the protection, conservation & management of marine forest and scheduled animal in the areas under their jurisdiction.

Enforcement of the provisions of the various Acts and Rules delegated to them. They shall carry out all the duties and functions to be done by a "forest officer", when appointed so, under the provisions of the Act and Rules. Shall function as an attached executive under a Range Forest Officer or shall have to hold independent charges assigned to them. They shall maintain machinery, equipment, tools and plants placed under his charge. They shall judiciously deploy the work force under him and maintain all the accounts/records related to various works. They shall maintain the record of the marine forest/scheduled animal under his jurisdiction. They should also execute any other works as and when assigned to him by his superior officers. They should take effective measures to protect the Scheduled animal and responsible for the protection, inquire / investigate or arrange investigation in respect of scheduled animal / wildlife offences or any other offences. They will also be responsible for successful / effective prosecution of court cases booked under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, other Act, Regulation & Rules, maintaining of relevant court records, etc. They shall also ensure proper patrolling and surveillance in his jurisdiction.

He will also exercise all the powers delegated to him through various notification of the UTL Administration under various Acts, Regulations & Rules. They are the cutting edge of the Department. All the departmental programmes shall be executed through them.

They shall conduct regular monitoring of the status of wildlife (including coral reef monitoring and health status) and other protected specious of their area, report regularly to the Zone in charges. A general duty dairy shall be maintained in all the ranges. Daily the dairy shall be closed. Fortnightly report of the general duty dairy shall be submitted to theTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 27 Zone in charges through their respective Range Forest Officer. If any wildlife crime occurred, immediate the same shall be reported. The Fortnightly report should also cover the works allotted, their progress during the period, status of protection of marine forests, etc., to give a comprehensive picture of the range his/ her posting

5.5 Forest Guard:-

Forest Guard shall function as an attached executive under a Forester or exclusively as the in-charge of a Beats. They are responsible for to conduct regular patrolling in their jurisdiction. They also enforce the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the rules made there-under. Shall carry out all the duties and functions to be done by a "forest officer", when appointed so, under the provisions of the aforementioned Act and rules. He/She is also requested to do any other works as and when assigned to him by his superior officers. He/She should assist and support all the protection activities/ other activities along with the Forester or execute independently assigned by the Forester to accomplish the duties assigned to Forester. He/She is also in charge of respective beats as and when formed by the department.

5.6 Powers of Conservator of Forests

Conservator of Forests shall exercise the following powers to the extent shown below:

5.6.1 Details of powers

i. To transfer Zone/Ranges/Islands Officers

ii. To grant leave to Rangers and other Non Gazetted staff. As provided for in the Delegation of Financial Powers Rules 1978 read with GFR 2017 & according to the orders of the Administration;

iii. To write off unserviceable stores tools and plants etc. As provided for in the Delegation of Financial Powers Rules 1978 read with GFR 2017 & according to the orders of the Administration.

iv. To sanction the purchase of stores tools and plants etc. As provided for in the Delegation of Financial Powers Rules, 1978 read with GFR 2017 & according to the orders of the Administration.

5.6.2 Statutory Powers vested in the Conservator of Forests: -

Being Chief Wildlife Warden, execute all the statutory powers in accordance with the Act & Rules.

5.7 Fortnightly reports of the Ranges

For the periods 1st to 15th and 16th to the end of the month, the Range in charge shall submit the dairy to the immediate in charge. The Fortnightly report should have the abstract of general duty diary an also cover the works allotted, their progress during the period, status of protection of marine forests, etc., to give a comprehensive picture of the range his/ her posting.

5.8 General orders.

The general orders and circulars of the Govt. of India, Administration, Conservator of Forests and Finance Department, UTL Administration and others will be filed separately according to number and date in a „Circular File". If received in duplicate, one copy will be placed in relevant file to which it relates. If only one copy is available and it has special reference to any case, a photocopy of the same will be filed therewith.

5.9 Register of Correspondence

Register of receipt and issues of correspondence will be kept in books. A new series of numbers will be commenced in the Register books at the opening of each calendar year.

5.10 Register of Forest Offences

A register of forest/wildlife/environmental offences will be maintained in each Range. A report on such offences will be prepared on the basis of entries in this register and forwarded monthly to the Conservator of Forests.

5.11 Maintenance of Confidential Report of Gazetted& Non-Gazetted Officers

Confidential Report in the form prescribed by the administration shall be maintained for all Officers and staff of Department of Environment & Forests. This should be written according to instructions issued by Administration from time to time.

5.12 Arms/Ammunitions/Weapons

Individual arms/ammunitions/weapons will be provided to all Frontline Officers (Forest Guard/Forester/Range Forest Officers) and the handling/operations of the same is applicable/ organised as per the Arms Act, 1959 and the prevailing Act/Rules in force.

5.13 Uniform Code for Forest Officials of U.T. of Lakshadweep Administration

APPENDIX- I

1. Secy (E&F) Secretary (Environment & Forests)

2. CWW Chief Wildlife Warden

3. CF Conservator of Forests

4. UTLI U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands

5. RFO Range Forest Officer

6. Fr Forester

7. FG Forest Guard

8. LCRMN Lakshadweep Coral Monitoring Network

9. LMPB Lakshadweep Medicinal Plant Board

10. PA Protected Area

11. HQ Head QuarterTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 33

Appendix II

LOGO

Appendix III

Appendix IV

Appendix V

Appendix VI

Appendix VII

Wildlife Offence Report (WLOR)

1. Name of the Range/Division/Island/Beat :

2. WLOR number and date :

3. Place of detection/seizure :

4. Date on which the

offence was detected or the seizure effected

5. Details of articles seized :

6. Nature of the offence and Sections

Of law

:

7. Name, parentage and full residential

address of the accused/suspects :

8. Whether the accused/suspect was

arrested, if so, by whom :

9. Place and time of arrest of

the accused/ suspect.

10. Names and addresses of independent witnesses,

If any.

:

11. Whether intimation was given to the Chief

Wildlife Warden or the authorised officer :

12. Where or in whose custody the seized

properties are kept/detained :

13. Details of the incident/offence reported :

Name & Designation of the officer sending the Offence Report to the Court:

Enclosures

1. Original Search and Seizure Memo .

2. Arrest cum Personal Search Memo.

3. Confession Statement of the accused .

4. Photographs of the scene of crime.

5. List of properties seized forwarded to the Court.

To

The Chief Judicial

Magistrate/JMFC

(Place & address)

Copy to :-

1. The Conservator of Forests

2. The Chief Wildlife WardenTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 47

Appendix – VIII

SEARCH AND SEIZURE MEMO U/S 50 (1) OF THE WILD LIFE (PROTECTION)

ACT, 1972

Prepared at…………………………On……………………………

1. Island

2. Year: WLOR No. Date:

3. Acts and Sections :

4. Nature of Property: Seized/Received/Stolen/Unclaimed/Unlawful Possession/Others.

5. Property Seized/Received :

a. Date:

b. Time:

c. Address of Place from where property seized/recovered:

d. Description of the place of property seizure/recovery:

6. Person from whom Seized/Received:

a. Name :

b. Father"s/Husbands Name:

c. Age:

d. Occupation:

e. Address:

7. Witnesses:

(i) Name:

a. Father"s/Husband"s Name:

b. Age:

c. Occupation:

d. Address:

(ii) Name:

a. Father"s/Husband"s Name:

b. Age:

c. Occupation:

d. Address:

8. Action taken/recommended for disposal of perishable property:

9. Action taken/recommended for keeping of valuable property:

10. Identification Required: Yes/No

11. Details of Property Seized/Received

12. The above mentioned properties were seized in accordance with theTHE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY 48 provisions of Laws in the presence of the above said witnesses.

13. The following properties were packed and/or sealed and the signature of the above said witness obtained thereon or on the body of the property, as

mentioned against each.

Witness – 1

Signature

Witness – 2

Signature

Signature of the Officer in Charge:

Name:

Rank:

Number, if any:

Place:

Date:

Appendix - IX

Arrest cum Personal Search Memo

Appendix – X

SEARCH WARRANT

In exercise of the powers conferred under Sub section 1 (a)(b)(c) of Section 50 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, you are hereby authorised to enter, search, seize, arrest and detention in the premises of (Name & Address) Island, in connection with the wildlife offence (……………) with immediate effect .

This is issued on dd.mm.yyyy at ………am/pm at ………. Island.

Authorised Officer