Discuss the present natural resources conservation policies of Odisha.

Odisha is a state located in the eastern part of India. It is known for its rich natural resources, including forests, minerals, and marine resources. The state government of Odisha has implemented a number of policies and initiatives to conserve and sustainably manage these natural resources. Here are some of the key natural resource conservation policies and initiatives in Odisha:

The Odisha Forest Department has implemented several policies and initiatives to conserve forests and wildlife. These include the implementation of the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980, which prohibits the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes, and the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, which prohibits hunting and poaching of wildlife. The department has also established several protected areas, including national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation reserves, to protect and conserve the state's rich biodiversity.

The Odisha Mining Department has implemented a number of policies and initiatives to regulate and manage the state's mineral resources. These include the Odisha Mining Corporation Act, 1961, which establishes the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) to manage and regulate the state's mineral resources, and the Odisha Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2016, which regulate the exploration, development, and conservation of minor minerals in the state.

The Odisha Fisheries Department has implemented several policies and initiatives to conserve and sustainably manage the state's marine resources. These include the Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 2002, which regulates fishing in the state's marine waters, and the Odisha Marine Fishing Rules, 2003, which prescribe the procedures for granting licenses for marine fishing. The department has also established marine protected areas to conserve the state's marine biodiversity.

The Odisha State Pollution Control Board has implemented several policies and initiatives to control and prevent pollution in the state. These include the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, which regulate the discharge of pollutants into water bodies and the air, respectively. The board has also established environmental standards and guidelines to ensure that industrial and other development activities do not have a negative impact on the environment.

Overall, the state government of Odisha has implemented a number of policies and initiatives to conserve and sustainably manage the state's natural resources. These policies and initiatives are aimed at protecting and preserving the state's forests, minerals, marine resources, and biodiversity, as well as preventing and controlling pollution.