The declaration of an area as a National Park represents the highest level of ecological protection under Indian law. Unlike Wildlife Sanctuaries, National Parks are characterized by the strict exclusion of almost all human interference.
The legal framework for this is provided under Section 35 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
1. Primary Objects of a National Park
The overarching objective is the preservation of the "natural" state of a specific ecosystem.
Holistic Ecosystem Protection: Unlike a sanctuary, which might be created to protect a specific species (e.g., a Bird Sanctuary), a National Park is intended to protect the entire ecosystem—flora, fauna, geomorphological features, and the habitat as a whole.
Gene Pool Conservation: By maintaining large, undisturbed tracts of land, National Parks act as a reservoir of genetic diversity, ensuring that species can evolve naturally without human-induced selection pressures.
Protection of Geomorphological/Hydrological Features: Often, areas are constituted as National Parks to protect unique geographical formations, such as caves, mountains, or the origin of rivers, which are vital for the regional environmental balance.
2. Purposes of Constitution of National Park
The constitution of a National Park serves several functional roles in environmental governance:
A. Strict Legal Isolation (The "Zero-Impact" Goal)
The most significant purpose is to create a "No-Man's Land" for commercial exploitation.
Prohibition of Grazing: Under Section 35(7), grazing of livestock is strictly prohibited inside a National Park (unlike in Sanctuaries, where it may be regulated).
No Private Rights: Once an area is declared a National Park, all private rights of individuals within the boundaries are extinguished, settled, or acquired by the State Government.
B. Scientific Research and Education
National Parks serve as "living laboratories."
They provide a baseline for scientists to study how nature functions without human interference.
They facilitate controlled eco-tourism and education, allowing the public to understand the importance of conservation without damaging the habitat.
C. Buffer against Climate Change and Extinction
Carbon Sequestration: These areas act as massive carbon sinks.
Safe Haven for Endangered Species: They provide a "last stand" for species that cannot survive in "multi-use" forests. For example, the Kaziranga National Park serves as a vital purpose for the survival of the One-horned Rhinoceros.
3. The Legal "Finality" Purpose
The purpose of declaring an area a National Park is also to provide permanence.
Boundaries: Once the boundaries of a National Park are fixed, they cannot be altered except by a resolution passed by the State Legislature and with the recommendation of the National Board for Wildlife.
This high legal threshold ensures that short-term industrial or political interests cannot easily dismantle protected areas.
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