Kasturirangan and Gadgil Reports on Western Ghats: 

1. The Kasturirangan and Gadgil Reports are 2 important documents created by committees set up by the Indian government to protect the ecology of the Western Ghats.
2. The Gadgil Committee, established in 2010, focused on assessing and designating eco-sensitive areas, while the Kasturirangan Committee, formed in 2012, aimed to review Gadgil's findings in a broader context.

What Are the Western Ghats?

1. The Western Ghats are a mountain range running parallel to the western coast of India, stretching across six states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
2. This area covers about 140,000 square km and is recognized globally for its rich biodiversity.
3. It plays a crucial role in India’s climate and water supply, impacting monsoon patterns and supporting various species of plants and animals.

Importance of the Western Ghats

1. The Western Ghats are vital for water supply, affecting 245 million people through rivers that originate in the region.
2. They host a vast array of flora and fauna, with many species being unique to the area. For example, 350 out of 650 tree species are endemic, as well as a significant percentage of amphibians, reptiles, and fish.
3. Several endangered species, such as the Nilgiri Langur and Lion-Tailed Macaque, reside here.
4. The region is protected by several Indian laws, including the Wildlife Protection Act (1972) and the Forest Conservation Act (1980).

Gadgil Committee Report:

The Gadgil Committee (Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel) was formed in 2010 to protect the ecology of the Western Ghats.

Recommendations:

1. Eco Sensitive Zones (ESZ): The entire mountain range should be recognized as an Eco Sensitive Zone.
2. Moratorium on Mining: A halt on new mining projects in designated ESZs.
3. Phase-Out: Complete phase-out of mining in ESZ 1 within five years and banning chemical pesticides within eight years.
4. Ban on Industries: New coal-based power plants and other red industries should not be allowed in ESZ 1 and 2.
5. Construction Ban: No new construction for major projects like dams or roads in sensitive areas.
6. Western Ghats Ecology Authority: Establish a statutory body to manage the ecology of the Western Ghats.
7. Regulating Tourism: Implement measures to control tourism in the area.

Criticism:

1. The report was seen as overly pro-environment and anti-development, making impractical recommendations.
2. Critics argued that the blanket coverage of the Western Ghats would negatively impact energy and development needs.
3. Concerns were raised about potential revenue loss and the impact on livelihoods, especially for farmers and sand miners.

Kasturirangan Committee Report:

Due to the lack of acceptance of the Gadgil Report, the Kasturirangan Committee was formed in 2012 to provide a comprehensive review.

Recommendations:

1. ESZ Classification: Only 37% of the Western Ghats should be classified as Eco-Sensitive Area.
2. Cultural Landscape: About 60% of the region should be recognized as a Cultural Landscape, allowing for human settlements and agriculture.
3. Mining and Industries: A ban on mining and other harmful industries in the ESA, with a gradual phase-out for existing operations.
4. Hydropower Projects: Only approved in areas that maintain ecological flow.
5. Cumulative Impact Assessments: Required for any major infrastructure projects.
6. Community Tourism: Promotion of eco-sensitive tourism managed by local communities.

Criticism:

1. Critics noted that the division of zones was based on remote sensing data rather than on-ground assessments, leading to inaccuracies.
2. Concerns were raised about the feasibility of a bottom-up governance approach, as real power often lies with bureaucrats.
3. Farmers feared potential eviction, while environmentalists worried that the report might facilitate further exploitation of resources.