The Department of Environment & Forest

The Department of Environment & Forest, under U.T of Lakshadweep Administration was bifurcated in the year 1999. Before that it was functioning with the Department of Science & Technology. During the year 2018, a total of 6 Divisions were created in the department, for the convenience of the better administration and management, with a view to protect and conserve natural resources of Forest & Environment.

It is a real fact that - Coral reefs – the hotbeds of marine life, livelihoods and coastal defence are taking a huge battering, especially from overfishing and climate change. It is the life line of these islands. The economy of the islands is also directly proportional to the status of this biodiversity hotspot.

The Department of Environment & Forest is responsible for protection and conservation of fragile ecosystem, biodiversity and natural resources in the islands. The Department also responsible for execution of Wildlife Protection Act, Environment Protection Act, Biodiversity Act, Coastal Zone Management Rules, Pollution Control Rules, Waste Management Rules, etc. At present the Department have the hierarchy of Conservator of Forest as Head of Department, One Deputy Conservator of Forest belongs to Indian Forest Service, 6 Range Forest Officers, 3 Boat drivers, 6 Boat lascar, 1 Lower Divisional Clerk & 1 Multi Skilled Employee. The department has already re-designated the post of Environment Warden as Range Forest Officer.