Keralam to argue for restricting ESA to 98 villages and 8,590.69 sq km
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Mains·
Conservation vs Development: a GS3 case study on land use policy and biodiversity management.
Why in news
The State of Keralam is seeking to restrict the Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) in its Western Ghats region to 98 villages and 8,590.69 sq km by September 24, 2026.
Background
Keralam proposes excluding human habitations and the Cardamom Hill Reserve from ESA classification. The state argues for exemptions for power generation facilities and dairy units while highlighting increased forest cover and sustainable tiger populations.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceWestern Ghats: Region in Keralam proposed for ESA restriction.
- FactProposed ESA area: 8,590.69 sq km across 98 villages.
- FactCardamom Hill Reserve: Specifically sought to be excluded from ESA classification.
- FactProposed exemptions: Power generation facilities and dairy units.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the proposed Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) in Keralam, consider the following statements:
- The proposal seeks exemptions for power generation facilities and dairy units.
- The Cardamom Hill Reserve is proposed to be included in the ESA classification.
- The proposed ESA area covers 8,590.69 sq km across 98 villages.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: The state seeks to exclude the Cardamom Hill Reserve from the ESA classification.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the conflict between ecological conservation and developmental needs in the Western Ghats, highlighting the challenges of defining Ecologically Sensitive Areas.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Developmental friction: Balancing power generation and dairy unit requirements against biodiversity conservation goals
- Regulatory ambiguity: Conflict between state-led land use demands and central conservation mandates
- Ecological integrity: Risks of habitat fragmentation due to dilution of ESA norms in high-biodiversity zones
Keywords: Ecologically Sensitive Area · Biodiversity Conservation · Sustainable Development · Western Ghats · Land Use Policy
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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.