Nation, August 2, 2023: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has taken significant strides in safeguarding the Western Ghats region through a range of initiatives aimed at preserving its precious forests, wildlife, and environment. These efforts are part of the broader strategy to foster sustainability and biodiversity across various states and Union Territories, with a particular focus on the Western Ghats States.
Diverse Conservation Initiatives:
The MoEFCC has spearheaded several schemes dedicated to the conservation of the environment in the Western Ghats region. These include the National Afforestation Programme, Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat, Forest Fire Prevention and Management, Project Tiger, and the National Mission for a Green India. Notably, funds from the Compensatory Afforestation Management & Planning Authority have also been channeled into safeguarding the Western Ghats’ forest and wildlife.
Expert Panels and Notification:
In an endeavor to ensure the enduring protection of the Ghats, the MoEFCC established two pivotal committees: The Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) chaired by Prof. Madhav Gadgil, and the High-Level Working Group (HLWG) helmed by Dr. K. Kasturirangan. These committees were tasked with evaluating and refining recommendations from the WGEEP. Based on the HLWG’s report, the MoEFCC released a draft notification on March 10, 2014, designating biologically and culturally diverse regions as Eco-sensitive Areas, necessitating conservation efforts.
Deliberation and Notification Process:
Addressing concerns and viewpoints from State Governments, as well as taking into account public and stakeholder apprehensions, the draft of the Western Ghats Eco-sensitive Area notification has been re-issued for the fifth time on July 6, 2022. To ensure comprehensive consultation with State Governments in finalizing the notification, a dedicated committee has been established. The current validity of the draft notification extends until June 30, 2024.
The MoEFCC’s comprehensive approach to preserving the Ghats underscores the importance of sustainable development, ecological integrity, and collaboration with all stakeholders. As the Ministry continues to lead these conservation efforts, the Western Ghats can look forward to a future of enhanced protection and enduring vitality.