Arunchal to have its own Forest Act

"We are serious about framing our own forest laws to protect the state's biodiversity," Sajwan told a press conference.

Without divulging the time-frame by which the Act would be ready, he said, "The process will take time. We will have to discuss the pros and cons with stakeholders before framing the laws."

To a question on impact of construction of hydro power projects in the state on environment, Sajwan said the ministry of environment and forest conducted Environment Impact Assessment before giving approval to any project.

On the Forest Protection Force and Special Tiger Protection Force which was approved by the state Assembly recently, the PCCF said, "The Centre has sanctioned a STPF company especially for Pakke Tiger Reserve in East Kameng district and has agreed to bear all the expenditure.

"We are also going to submit a similar proposal soon for Namdapha Tiger Reserve in Changlang district," he said.