Latest draft notification to notify Western Ghats as ecologically sensitive expires
Talks involving Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and an expert committee on the matter continue

National · 9 updates
Talks involving Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and an expert committee on the matter continue
Govt. yet to resolve long-standing differences with the six Western Ghats States over the villages and regions that should be included within the zone; States apprehensive about the impact of the notification on farming, infrastructure and other development activities
The Centre has released its seventh draft notification for ecologically sensitive areas. This proposal aims to protect 56,825 sq km across six Indian states. States have raised objections, primarily Kerala, citing livelihood concerns. The draft allows for phased implementation, potentially speeding up the process. This initiative follows previous attempts since 2011 to conserve the fragile region.
The Ecologically Sensitive Area debate highlights the need for balanced, inclusive conservation approaches
Farmer leaders say that with 131 villages from the State are now included in the draft notification, and nearly 1,500 sq km of farmlands and human habitations fall in the ecologically sensitive area (ESA) category
Landholders question omission of several recommendations reportedly made during discussions with the high-powered committee constituted by the Centre at the request of the State government