ORDER

After hearing Mr. Harish N. Salve, the learned Amicus Curiae, learned Attorney General and learned counsel appearing for the States and other parties in these matters, it is clear that no substantial variation in the earlier order dated 12.12.1996* is required to be made as an interim measure; and that some minor variation to the extent indicated hereinafter is all that is required to be done at present.

We are satisfied that there is need to constitute a High Power Committee to oversee the strict and faithful implementation of the orders of this Court in the North Eastern Region and for certain ancillary purposes. Accordingly we direct as under :-

(i) There shall be a Committee as under :-

(a) Shri T.V. Rajeshwar, Chairman;

(b) Shri R.N. Kaul, Retd. I.G. of Forests-Member; and

(c) one representative nominated by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MOEF)-Member Secretary.

Shri T.V. Rajeshwar and Shri R.N. Kaul have given their consent for the purpose.

(ii) This Committee shall oversee preparation of inventory of all timber in all forms (including timber prod