Consider the following statements : Once the Central Government notifies an area as a 'Community Reserve' 1. the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest 2. hunting is not allowed in such area 3. people of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce 4. people of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices How many of the above statements are correct?

The correct answer is Option 2 (Only two). Community Reserves are established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, when local communities or individuals volunteer to conserve wildlife on private or community land.

Statements 2 and 3 are correct:

• Statement 2: Once notified, the area receives the same legal protection as Sanctuaries. Under Section 35, hunting is strictly prohibited.
• Statement 3: Local communities retain their rights to collect non-timber forest produce (NTFP) for bona fide subsistence needs, ensuring a balance between conservation and livelihoods.

Statements 1 and 4 are incorrect:

• Statement 1: The governing authority is a Community Reserve Management Committee, not the Chief Wildlife Warden, who only acts as the monitoring authority.
• Statement 4: Traditional agricultural practices, such as Jhum cultivation, are generally prohibited within the notified area to prevent habitat degradation.