Expert Committee to Finalise Western Ghats ESA Demarcation

A central expert committee is reviewing state objections to finalize the Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) demarcation in the Western Ghats. Originating from the Kasturirangan and Gadgil panel reports, the proposed 56,825 sq km ESA faces resistance from states like Kerala and Karnataka over developmental restrictions. Balancing biodiversity conservation in this critical hotspot with livelihood concerns remains a complex governance challenge for India's environmental federalism.