Western Ghats Protection Framework: 13-Year Effort Nears Completion in 3 States

After 13 years of inter-governmental deliberations, protection frameworks for Western Ghats ecologically sensitive areas in three states are nearing completion. The Western Ghats represent one of India's most biodiverse regions, hosting 30% of India's flora and fauna species, many endemic. The Gadgil Committee (2011) and Kasturirangan Committee (2012) had recommended stringent environmental restrictions, but implementation faced resistance from agricultural and mining interests. The three-state framework (likely Karnataka, Kerala, and Maharashtra) will establish ecologically sensitive zone (ESZ) classifications with varying development restrictions. This initiative addresses the constitutional mandate under Article 48A (environmental protection) and represents implementation of environmental governance principles. The delay reflects the tension between development aspirations and conservation—a persistent policy challenge. Effective Western Ghats protection is crucial for hydrological security (monsoon regulation), biodiversity conservation, and addressing climate change vulnerability. The framework will influence agricultural practices, mining permissions, and hydroelectric project viability in sensitive areas. Exam angle: Tests understanding of environmental law, constitutional environmental provisions, federalism in conservation, and sustainable development. Relevant for questions on environmental governance, biodiversity protection, and balancing development-conservation nexus. Likely questions: What is ESZ classification? How do different committees approach environmental protection? What are constitutional environmental mandates?