Protected Area Zone
Full Form of PAZ
What is PAZ?
A Protected Area Zone (PAZ) is a legally demarcated geographic region established by the government to conserve biodiversity, wildlife, and natural ecosystems. In India, PAZs are designated under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation reserves, and community reserves. These zones are critical for protecting endangered species such as the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and Asian elephant, and they help maintain ecological balance. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) oversees their management through state forest departments and local bodies. PAZs are frequently referenced in environmental impact assessments, land-use planning, and eco-sensitive zone notifications. For students preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, state PCS, and environmental science tests, understanding PAZ classification is vital for questions on habitat protection, wildlife conservation policies, and legal frameworks. The term is widely used in government reports, Supreme Court judgments on forest rights, and wildlife management plans across Indian states, making it a key concept in environmental governance.
PAZ का फुल फॉर्म
संरक्षित क्षेत्र क्षेत्र
Example
The forest department restricted mining activities within the PAZ to prevent habitat destruction and protect the local tiger population.