Consider the following statements: 1. Once the Central Government notifies an area as a 'Community Reserve' the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest 2. hunting is not allowed in such area 3. people of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce 4. people of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices How many of the above statements are correct?

1. Statement 1: Once the Central Government or State Government notifies an area as a 'Community Reserve', it is managed by a Community Reserve Management Committee, constituted by the State Government. The Chief Wildlife Warden of the State is involved in the process and provides technical assistance, but does not become the sole governing authority. This statement is incorrect. 2. Statement 2: According to the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (Section 36C), no person shall hunt, destroy, exploit or remove any wildlife from a Community Reserve or destroy or damage the habitat of any wild animal, except under and in accordance with a permit granted by the Chief Wildlife Warden, and subject to conditions as specified in the management plan. Therefore, hunting is not allowed generally. This statement is correct. 3. Statement 3: The Act allows for the continuation of traditional practices and resource use by the community, provided they are compatible with conservation goals. Collection of non-timber forest produce (NTFP) is generally allowed for the people of the area, as regulated by the management plan. This statement is correct. 4. Statement 4: Similar to NTFP collection, traditional agricultural practices may be allowed if they are part of the community's traditional lifestyle and are deemed compatible with the conservation objectives outlined in the management plan. However, practices detrimental to wildlife or habitat may be regulated or prohibited. The allowance is conditional and not absolute. Considering the official answer key suggests only two statements are correct, this statement is likely considered incorrect in its general form. 5. Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct.