JAIPUR: The Rajasthan government is considering the option of allowing land conversion within the one-kilometre Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) surrounding the Jawai Bandh leopard conservation area, which is unique in India for its population of cave-dwelling leopards.
The Chief Minister’s Office has requested details from the Pali district collector about land ownership within the ESZ. According to a letter obtained by TOI, the request states: “Please provide urgent information on the Jawai National Park, specifically regarding how much land within 300-500 metres and 500 metres to 1 km of Jawai is government/forest land versus private land.”
A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, reported that the inquiry followed a request from an influential hotelier who proposed that land conversions be permitted. The revenue department provided records including Khasra numbers, land types, areas, and ownership details to the collector on September 15.
The hotelier’s representation (which TOI has viewed) argues that stringent ESZ restrictions adversely affect livelihoods, depress land values, and limit local economic opportunities. It asserts, “Prohibiting commercial conversion of agricultural land within a one-kilometre radius of the reserve would severely restrict economic prospects for local residents.”
“Much of this land is not suitable for agriculture due to poor soil and water shortages. Allowing regulated non-agricultural uses—such as tourism facilities, homestays, or small businesses—would enable landowners to earn sustainable incomes and boost the local economy,” it continues.
Declared a leopard reserve in February 2010, Jawai spans 19.78 hectares. In May 2016, the state enforced a ban on mining and commercial activities within one kilometre of the reserve. Revisiting this decision would essentially reverse the government’s conservation efforts in Jawai.
Environmentalists have raised alarms about the potential risks to wildlife. Conservationist Gopal Singh cautions, “Allowing land conversion could unleash mining and construction activities, endangering the vital habitat. Past mining approvals were later revoked following lengthy legal challenges.” Green activist Rajendra Tiwari noted, “The ESZ notification is issued by the Centre based on the state government’s proposal. Post-notification, the state cannot authorize new constructions or changes in land use. Such actions would be illegal.”
