GOI has launched an e-payment module to accept compensatory amount for diversion of forest land in the India. The module was launched by MoS (Independent Charge) of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar. This e-payment module will cut delays and bring transparency in the system. The payment through the e-payment module has to be made to the designated account, depending on the State in which the forest land, proposed to be diverted, is located.

Points to Note

• With the activation of the e-payment portal, no payments will be accepted other than through the portal, unless specifically ordered by Ad-hoc CAMPA.
• Initially, payments will be permitted through two modes – online challan mode through RTGS and NEFT and offline challan mode.

What is CAMPA?

• CAMPA – Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority.
• An Agency which diverts forest land for non-forest purpose is required to deposit prescribed amount to the government body. This amount is managed by an ad-hoc body, CAMPA.
• The CAMPA had been created by the Supreme Court by Order dated 29th/30th October 2002.
• So far, 38,000 crore rupees have been accumulated with the ad-hoc CAMPA.
• This fund is meant for carrying out reforestation and other related activities including protection of forest area and wildlife conservation.

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