GS4 · 20 marks · 250 words
To enhance tourism and revenue, the state government proposed Project Z, which includes a tiger safari and a specialized zoo within an Indian national park. Ajay, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in charge of the park, was assigned to oversee and approve infrastructure development for the zoo and safari. Well-regarded as a liberal officer, Ajay was approached by local friends and a nearby MLA with a plan for a high-tech tourist resort adjacent to the park. Believing the project would not harm the park’s core area, Ajay approved it, overlooking the details and the environmental impact. Weeks later, an activist filed a complaint alleging illegal deforestation and unauthorized construction related to the resort. Upon reviewing the complaint, Ajay discovered that the resort project, which he had approved, had indeed felled over 500 trees and built structures without proper administrative clearances. Ajay was dismayed to realize he had been misled by his friends and the politician. This situation highlights a troubling case of collusion between a politician and a forest officer, resulting in significant environmental damage for political and commercial gain. In the given situation answer the following: a) Identify the stakeholders and ethical dilemmas involved in the case. b) What are the potential long-term consequences of such laxity for environmental governance and public trust? c) What are the options available to Ajay in the given situation? What should be his course of action? [20M]
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Syllabus: Case Studies on above issues.
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More on Crisis Decision Making
Deciding under time pressure with incomplete information, and the ethics of acting or waiting.
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