Discuss the administrative and ethical issues involved in the above case.

Linked PYQ

In line with the Directive Principles of State Policy, the government has a constitutional obligation to ensure basic needs — Roti, Kapda aur Makaan — for the underprivileged. The district administration proposed clearing a portion of forest land to develop housing for the homeless and economically weaker sections. The land is an ecologically sensitive zone with age-old trees, medicinal plants and vital biodiversity; the forests regulate micro-climate and rainfall, host wildlife, support soil fertility, prevent erosion and sustain tribal and nomadic livelihoods. The administration argues the initiative addresses fundamental human rights and uplifts the poor through inclusive housing; the forests have become unsafe due to wild-animal threats and human-wildlife conflict; and clearing may curb anti-social elements using the areas as hideouts. (a) Can deforestation be ethically justified in pursuit of social welfare objectives like housing for the homeless? (b) What are the socio-economic, administrative and ethical challenges in balancing environmental conservation with human development? (c) What alternatives or policy interventions can protect both environmental integrity and human dignity?