Western Ghats conservation with science and dialogue
The article discusses the protracted efforts and challenges in declaring Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot. It details the recommendations of the Madhav Gadgil (WGEEP) and K. Kasturirangan (HLWG) committees, the subsequent draft notifications by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), and the persistent opposition from states like Karnataka. Key concerns include the impact on local livelihoods, agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development, as well as issues with identification methods (satellite imagery) and the need for an empathetic approach that includes indigenous communities.
The article discusses the protracted efforts and challenges in declaring Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot. It details the recommendations of the Madhav Gadgil (WGEEP) and K. Kasturirangan (HLWG) committees, the subsequent draft notifications by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), and the persistent opposition from states like Karnataka. Key concerns include the impact on local livelihoods, agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development, as well as issues with identification methods (satellite imagery) and the need for an empathetic approach that includes indigenous communities.
Exam linkage
GS Paper III - Environment & Ecology: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. GS Paper II - Governance: Centre-State relations, government policies and interventions for development in various sectors.
Syllabus mapping
This topic appears in Mains
Questions on Environment & Ecology come up regularly in GS papers. Practice writing an answer — and see exactly what earns marks.
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