The Rajasthan Chief Minister's Office (CMO) has directed officials to investigate allegations of land-use change and possible encroachment near the Sudasari Great Indian Bustard (GIB) Breeding Centre in Jamra village, Jaisalmer district. The CMO has also instructed that progress updates be recorded on the CMIS portal.
Land within Desert National Park
The land parcel in question lies within the Desert National Park, a crucial habitat and breeding ground for the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. Allegations have also emerged that adjoining areas may have been encroached upon by local residents.
The CMO's communication cites a letter from Pokhran MLA Pratap Puri, who sought clarity on whether original Khasra No. 125 of Jamra village is included in the Desert National Park under the notification dated August 4, 1980. The CMO directed that due action be taken under existing rules and that the MLA be kept informed.
MLA's concerns
In his submission, Puri stated that Khasra No. 125 was later subdivided into Khasra Nos. 125/462 and 125/463, and that habitation conversion and land-use change were carried out on September 20, 1989. He said, "The land falls within the Sudasari core area, which is internationally recognised as a sensitive zone and a primary natural habitat and breeding ground for the Great Indian Bustard."
Puri sought details of the authority and legal provisions under which the conversion was permitted and questioned whether it violated the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, the 1980 notification, and conservation norms. He called for a high-level inquiry, annulment of unlawful land-use conversions, legal action against those responsible, restoration of the land to its original protected status, and stronger safeguards for the GIB habitat.
Forest department response
A senior forest official said, "We are examining the land records and will soon conduct a survey. Any form of encroachment within the Desert National Park will not be permitted." The official added that the matter would be reviewed with the revenue department to determine how the land was designated for habitation.
Environmental advocate Dalpat Hingada emphasized that "ground verification of land parcels, strict prevention of unauthorised use, enforcement by concerned authorities including the DFO, and protection of the Great Indian Bustard habitat as per notified status" is essential.
