Correct Option (A):
Statement 1 is correct. The term "Critical Wildlife Habitat" (CWH) is defined within the Forest Rights Act, 2006 (Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006) under Section 2(b). It refers to areas within National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries that are identified as inviolate for wildlife conservation, provided that the relocation of rights holders is done with their informed consent and proper rehabilitation.
Statement 2 is correct. In 2016, the Baiga Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) residing in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh became the first community in India to be granted Habitat Rights. These rights were conferred under the provisions of the Forest Rights Act, 2006, recognizing their traditional and customary rights over their habitat.
Incorrect Options:
Statement 3 is incorrect. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) does not officially decide and declare Habitat Rights. Under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, the process of recognizing and vesting forest rights, including Habitat Rights, is carried out by Gram Sabhas, Sub-Divisional Level Committees (SDLCs), and District Level Committees (DLCs). The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the nodal ministry responsible for the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006.