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Question

In line with the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Indian Constitution, the government has a constitutional obligation to ensure basic needs "Roti, Kapda aur Makan (Food, Clothes and Shelter)" - for the under-privileged. Pursuing this mandate, the district administration proposed clearing a portion of forest land to develop housing for the homeless and economically weaker sections of the society. The proposed land, however, is an ecologically sensitive zone densely populated with age-old trees, medicinal plants and vital biodiversity. Besides, these forests help to regulate micro-climate and rainfalls; provide habitat for wildlife, support soil fertility and prevent land/soil erosion and sustain livelihoods of tribal and nomadic communities. Inspite of the ecological and social costs, the administration argues in favour of the said proposal by highlighting that this very initiative addresses fundamental human rights as a critical welfare priority. Besides, it fulfils the government's duty to uplift and empower the poor through inclusive housing development. Further, these forest areas have become unsafe due to wild-animal threats and recurring human-wild life conflicts. Lastly, clearing forest-zones may help to curb anti-social elements allegedly using these areas as hideouts, thereby enhancing law and order.

Can deforestation be ethically justified in the pursuit of social welfare objectives like, housing for the homeless?

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2025 (Prelims) CSAT Official Paper (25-May-2025)

Ethically, this is deeply problematic. While providing housing is a strong moral imperative, justifying irreversible destruction of a vital ecosystem is difficult. It creates a conflict between the rights of the homeless and the rights of forest-dependent communities, wildlife, and future generations who rely on the ecosystem. Such an action is only a last resort and can only be considered if all other alternatives have been exhausted, which is rarely the case. It promotes an anthropocentric view that overlooks the intrinsic value of nature.

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Anushka Goel

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