THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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.

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

LGP.Kvt. G-1389/10 -20/50

PRICE: 75 PAISE

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

1.2.1. Lakshadweep Islands and lagoons

Sl.

No ^{Name of Island}

Latitude

(DD.DDDD)

Longitude

(DD.DDDD)

Area

(Sq.Km)

Lagoon

Area

Baliyapani Reef

12.3978

71.8986

57.46

Cheriyapani Reef

11.8277

71.8392

---

172.59

Bitra Island

11.5988

72.1880

0.10

45.61

Chetlat Island

11.6900

72.7125

1.40

1.60

Kiltan Island

11.4826

73.0056

2.20

1.76

Kadmat Island

11.2293

72.7779

3.20

37.50

Amini Island

11.1233

72.7251

2.60

1.50

Perumul Par reef

11.2143

72.1016

0.01

83.02

Bangaram Island

10.9376

72.2879

0.58

28.6

Thinnakara Islet

10.9468

72.3213

0.42

Parali Islet I

10.9555

72.3336

0.02

Parali Islet II

10.9525

72.3327

0.02

Parali Islet III

10.9524

72.3329

0.01

Agatti Island

10.8557

72.1930

3.84

17.50

Kalpitti Islet

10.8127

72.1687

0.07

Pitti island – Bird

Sanctuary

10.7748

72.5346

0.01

650 *

Kavaratti Island

10.5616

72.6380

4.22

4.96

SuheliValiyakara

Island

10.1313

72.3300

0.29

78.96

SuheliCheriyakara Islet 10.0440

72.2873

0.28

Andrott Island

10.8119

73.6762

4.92

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

Kalpeni Island

10.0705

73.6443

2.79

25.60

Cheriyam Islet

10.1422

73.6621

0.46

Koditala islet

10.1094

73.6528

0.000027

Kalpeni Pitti Islet

10.0737

73.6280

0.02

Kalpeni Pitti Islet

10.0732

73.6281

0.01

Tilakkam Islet I

10.0729

73.6352

0.02

Tilakkam Islet II

10.0696

73.6330

TilakkamIset III

10.0687

73.6313

Minicoy Island

8.2776

73.0471

4.80

30.60

Viringili Islet

8.2781

73.0116

0.02

1.2.2. Submerged banks

Sl.

Name of

Submerged bank

Latitude

(DD.DDDD)

Longitude

(DD.DDDD)

Approximate

Area

(Sq.Km)

Corahdeni

13.7564

72.2308

339.45

Sesostris Bank

13.1951

71.9842

388.53

Bassas De Pedro

13.1862

72.4072

2474.33

Elikalpeni

11.2384

74.0244

95.91

Investigator bank

8.5423

73.2711

141.78

Amini - Pitti

10.7748

72.5346

155.09

Source: Table 1.2.1 and 1.2.2 – Basic statistics Lakshadweep

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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

Sl.

Name of Zone

and Head

Quarter

Name of

Ranges

Range in

charge

Controlling

Authority

Jurisdiction

Lakshadweep

South Zone

Kavaratti Head

Quarter

Kavaratti RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Kavaratti

Island

and

its

territorial water, Dr. Salim Ali

Bird

Sanctuary

Pitti,

AttakoyaThangal

Marine

Conservation Reserve Pitti and

its

territorial

waters,

SuhaliValiyakara,

SuheliCheriyakara, Suheli Pitti

and its territorial waters.

Andrott

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Andrott and territorial waters

surrounding the Island/reefs.

Minicoy

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Minicoy Island and territorial

waters

surrounding

the

Island/reefs.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

Kalpeni

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Kalpeni,

Thilakkam,

Pitti,

Kodithala,

Cheriyam

and

territorial waters surrounding

the Island/reefs.

Lakshadweep

North Zone

Kavaratti Head

Quarter

Agatti

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Agatti, Bangaram, Thinnakara,

Parali, Perumulpar Reef and

territorial waters surrounding

the Island/reefs.

Kadmat

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Kadmat and territorial waters

surrounding the Island/reefs.

Amini

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Amini and its territorial and

territorial waters surrounding

the Island/reefs.

Chetlat

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Chetlat and territorial waters

surrounding the Island/reefs.

Kiltan

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Kiltan Island and territorial

waters

surrounding

the

Island/reefs.

Bitra

RFO/OIC DCF/ACF

Bitra Island and its territorial

waters, Dr KK Mohammed

Koya

Sea-cucumber

Conservation

Reserve,

Cheriyapani and its territorial

waters, PM Sayeed Marine Bird

Conservation

Reserve,

Valliyapani and its territorial

waters.

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, Acts

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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

Head Quarter (Kavaratti)

Territorial Zones

Range

Kavaratti

Range

Androth

Range

Kalpeni

Range

Minicoy

Range

Kadamat

Range

Kiltan

Range

Chetlet

Range

Amini

Range

Bitra

Range

Agatti

A .

Lakshadweep North ZoneKavaratti Head Quarter

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 Division

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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

Range Forest Officer

Forester

Assistant Conservator of Forests

Feildmen

Guard

MSE

Car Driver

Watcher

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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 to

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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 posts

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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:

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:

Fieldmen

10 posts

ii.

MSE (Technical)

5 posts

iii.

Helper

1 post

iv.

Boat driver

3 posts

Boat Lascar

6 posts

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

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 II

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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 the

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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 southward

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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 IV

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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.

Regular patrolling

ii.

Coral reef monitoring

iii.

Marine Wildlife census

iv.

Beach cleaning

Lagoon cleaning

vi.

Celebration of Important Days

vii.

Social forestry activities

viii.

Swachh Lakshadweep Abhiyan

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

CHAPTER –IV

ACCOUNT OF STORES AND OTHER ASSETS

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 also

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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 any

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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 the

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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

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.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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 1^st to 15^th and 16^th 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

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.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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

Sl.

Description

Forest Car

Driver/

Forest

Watcher

Forest Guards

Foresters

Range Forest

Officers

Head Wears

peak cap

-----

Superior quality

Khaki peak cap

with black

ribbon around it

affixing Ashoka

Emblem made of

white metal

Superior quality

Khaki peak cap

with brown

(tan) ribbon

around it

affixing Ashoka

Emblem made

of white metal

Superior quality

Khaki peak cap

with brown (tan)

ribbon around it

affixing Ashoka

Emblem made of

white metal

Head Wears

Beret cap

With

embedded

monogram

With Hard

Green

embedded

monogram

With Hard Blue

embedded

monogram

With Hard Blue

embedded

monogram

With Hard Blue

embedded

monogram

Shirts

Tight fitting,

double

breast

pocket with

straight

flaps

Khaki Tight

Fitting, Double

Breast Pocket

with Straight

Flaps and

Shoulder Loops

for Badges with

folded sleeves

and E&F logo on

the left sleeve.

Khaki Tight

Fitting, Double

Breast Pocket

with Straight

Flaps and

Shoulder Loops

for Badges with

folded sleeves

and E&F logo

on the left

sleeve.

Khaki Tight

Fitting, Double

Breast Pocket

with Straight

Flaps and

Shoulder Loops

for Badges with

folded sleeves

and E&F logo on

the left sleeve.

Shirts

(Camouflag

ed)

Military

type

camouflaged

shirt

Military type

camouflaged

shirt with

embedded single

star

Military type

camouflaged

shirt with

embedded two

star

Military type

camouflaged shirt

with embedded

three star

Trousers

Khaki Pants

/ A Military

pattern tight

fitting

shorts.

Khaki Pants / A

Military pattern

tight fitting

shorts.

Khaki Pants / A

Military pattern

tight fitting

shorts.

Khaki Pants / A

Military pattern

tight fitting

shorts.

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

Trousers

(Camouflag

ed)

Military

type

camouflaged

Trousers

Military type

camouflaged

Trousers

Military type

camouflaged

Trousers

Military type

camouflaged

Trousers

Belts

A Black

leather waist

belt outside

the waist

around pants

with

rectangular

steel buckle

having the

words

Lakshadwee

p Forest

Department

round it and

electroplated

Ashoka

Chakra in

the Centre.

A Brown leather

waist belt

outside the waist

around pants

with rectangular

steel buckle

having the words

Lakshadweep

Forest

Department

round it and

electroplated

Ashoka Chakra

in the Centre.

Brown leather

belt with

rectangular

steel buckle

with silver

plating having

the words

Lakshadweep

Forest

Department

round it and

electroplated

Ashok Chakra

in the Centre.

Brown leather

belt with

rectangular steel

buckle with silver

plating having the

words

Lakshadweep

Forest

Department round

it and

electroplated

Ashok Chakra in

the Centre.

Stars

---

One Star

Five pointed ¾

inch diameter

with short and

split rings

aluminum 1/32

inch thick.

Two Stars

Five pointed ¾

inch diameter

with short and

split rings

aluminum 1/32

inch thick.

Three Stars Five

pointed ¾ inch

diameter with

short and split

rings aluminum

1/32 inch thick

Badges

Steel written

LEF

Steel written

LEF

Steel written

LEF

Steel written LEF

Name plate

Name tag

made of

hard green

plastic with

white letter

(2 mm. thick

and 10 mm.

wide) with

arrangement

for pinning

Name tag made

of hard blue

plastic with gold

letter (2 mm.

thick and 10

mm. wide) with

golden border

and also

arrangement for

pinning

Name tag made

of hard blue

plastic with

gold letter (2

mm. thick and

10 mm. wide)

with golden

border and also

arrangement for

pinning

Name tag made of

hard blue plastic

with gold letter (2

mm. thick and 10

mm. wide) with

golden border and

also arrangement

for pinning

Shoes

Black boot

cut Shoe

Brown Leather

boot cut shoes

Brown Leather

boot cut Shoes /

Hunter Shoes

and Khaki

socks.

Brown Leather

boot cut Shoes /

Hunter Shoes and

Khaki socks.

Whistle

lanyard

Hard green

Hard blue

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

Rain Coat

Any

ordinary

quality

Khaki

raincoat

made of

thick water

proof canvas

cloth. With

E&F logo

Any ordinary

quality Khaki

raincoat made of

thick water proof

canvas cloth

Any ordinary

quality Khaki

raincoat made

of thick water

proof canvas

cloth

Any ordinary

quality Khaki

raincoat made of

thick water proof

canvas cloth

Ribbon

Ribbon Red

and Green

Ribbon Red and

Green

Ribbon Red and

Green

Ribbon Red and

Green

Cross belt

Brown leather

cross belt with

weapon pouch

Brown leather

cross belt with

weapon pouch

Brown leather

cross belt with

weapon pouch

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

APPENDIX- I

Secy (E&F)

Secretary (Environment & Forests)

CWW

Chief Wildlife Warden

Conservator of Forests

UTLI

U.T. of Lakshadweep Islands

RFO

Range Forest Officer

Forester

Forest Guard

LCRMN

Lakshadweep Coral Monitoring Network

LMPB

Lakshadweep Medicinal Plant Board

10.

Protected Area

11.

Head Quarter

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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:

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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

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 the

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

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.

Sl.No.

Property

Signature obtained: On the

packet or on the body of the

property

Witness – 1

Signature

Witness – 2

Signature

Signature of the Officer in Charge:

Name:

Rank:

Number, if any:

Place:

Date:

THE LAKSHADWEEP GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

Appendix - IX

Arrest cum Personal Search Memo

Name of the Forest

Range/Division/Island/Beat.

Case number and Sections of law

Name, parentage and age of the

accused arrested

Present and permanent address of

the arrested accused

Identification marks of the arrested

accused

Reasons for arrest and whether

without

warrant or with warrant

Place and time of arrest

Documents/articles which were

found on the person of the

accused

Name

and

address

the

independent witness(es)who was

present at the time of arrest

10 ^{Name and designation of the}

officer who effected the arrest

Name of the relative/friend as

declared by the arrestee who has

been informed of his arrest

Name of the local Police Station

where the arrested person is to be

kept in custody or other venue of

custody of the accused

Any other particulars including

injuries

on the person of the arrestee, if any

14 Signature of the arrested accused

15 ^{Signature of the independent}

witness

16 ^{Signature of the officer who}

effected thearrest