To protect Western Ghats, southern states must break impasse
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
Southern states (Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu) are facing an impasse over the implementation of the Kasturirangan Committee's Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) recommendations for the Western Ghats.
Background
The Kasturirangan Committee proposed an ESA covering approximately 19,000 sq km in the Western Ghats. The recommendations include banning mining, polluting industries, thermal power plants, and large-scale construction in these zones.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceWestern Ghats: A mountain range in South India and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- BodyKasturirangan Committee:A high-level committee tasked with identifying Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats.
- FactThe proposed ESA covers approximately 19,000 sq km of the Western Ghats.
- EnvironmentWestern Ghats: Critical for carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and regional water security.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the conflict between developmental imperatives and ecological preservation in the Western Ghats, highlighting the challenges of implementing the Kasturirangan Committee's recommendations.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Federal friction: Conflict between State-led industrial development and Central-mandated ecological conservation guidelines.
- Economic trade-off: Balancing the immediate revenue from mining and thermal power against long-term carbon sequestration and water security.
- Regulatory impasse: Lack of a unified enforcement mechanism for ecologically sensitive zones across different state jurisdictions.
Keywords: Ecologically Sensitive Area · Biodiversity Conservation · Carbon Sequestration · Federalism · Sustainable Development
More Environment & Ecology notes
- Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted the success of the Sariska tiger reintroduction program during its 18th anniversary · 2 July 2026
- Why Delhi's New EV Policy Aims Two And Three Wheelers · 2 July 2026
- THE HINDU IMPACT | Kerala HC initiates suo motu PIL into tree-felling on CHR land in Idukki · 1 July 2026
- World’s oceans experience hottest June ever, scientists say more heat ahead · 1 July 2026
- Assam Launches Drive Against Illegal Sawmills, Forest Minister Warns Of Action · 1 July 2026
- After June deficit, July to see below-normal rainfall too: IMD · 1 July 2026
Something wrong, or something missing?
Spotted a mistake in a note, or want a topic, format or PDF that would help your preparation? Write to us. We read every mail and fix errors fast.
Report a mistake →Ask for something →thesatyadheesh@gmail.com
This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.