Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 19 December 2025
The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Andaman & Nicobar Islands, in collaboration with the Department of Environment & Forests, organised a Legal Awareness Programme today at Van Sadan, Haddo, focusing on key forest and environmental legislations as well as workplace safety laws.
The session covered the Indian Forest Act, 1927; Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972; Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006; Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016; and the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.
The programme was led by Mr. Niyaz Alam, Additional District Judge, Port Blair, and Mr. Samrat Roy, Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Secretary, DLSA, A&N Islands.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. Sanjay Kumar Sinha, IFS, presided over the event, while the welcome address was delivered by Mr. S.K. Thomas, IFS, Conservator of Forests (HQ).
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Alam highlighted the essential provisions of the POSH Act and underscored the need for strict compliance with forest and environmental protection laws. Mr. Roy briefed participants on procedures for handling forest-related cases, including preparation of case records and court processes.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. A. Anil Kumar, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial).
Senior officers of the Forest Department — including Divisional Forest Officers, Assistant Conservators of Forests, Range Officers and executive staff from various divisions — attended the programme. A delegation from PRAYAS JAC, including Ms. Marya Sheela, Regional Head, and Mr. K. Vijay Kumar, Advisor, also participated. (Story Based on PR)
