CM Shivakumar writes to Centre requesting review of Kasturirangan report on Western Ghats.

Karnataka CM Seeks Review of Kasturirangan Report on Western Ghats

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has formally written to the Central Government requesting a re-evaluation of the Kasturirangan report on the Western Ghats. This report, initially presented in 2013, aims to protect the ecologically sensitive region, which spans several states including Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

The Chief Ministers letter emphasizes concerns regarding the impact of the reports recommendations on the livelihoods of local communities in the Western Ghats. Shivakumar has urged the Centre to consider the socio-economic aspects of the region before implementing any measures suggested in the report.

The Kasturirangan report has long been a point of contention, balancing environmental preservation with the economic needs of local populations reliant on agriculture and other industries. Shivakumar’s advocacy reflects a growing recognition of the need to address both ecological and developmental priorities in policymaking.

Additional context includes ongoing debates among various stakeholders, including environmentalists, local farmers, and government officials, about the best strategies to manage the biodiversity and resources of the Western Ghats, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The outcome of this review could have significant implications for environmental policy and regional development in the area.