Goa, May 24 -- In a significant policy move, the Goa government has instructed the Forest Department to identify isolated hamlets and human habitations located within protected areas-such as wildlife sanctuaries and national parks-that lack basic civic amenities. The aim is to facilitate their voluntary relocation to revenue land where essential infrastructure like electricity, water, and road access can be provided.

The decision was discussed during a recent meeting of the Goa State Board of Wildlife (SBWL), chaired by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. Both Sawant and Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane stressed that any relocation must be voluntary and contingent on the residents surrendering their rights or claims within these ecologically sen...