The Centre has issued its seventh draft notification for the Western Ghats ecologically sensitive area. This proposal designates approximately 56,825 sq km as a sensitive zone across six states. Southern states, particularly Kerala, have raised objections to the proposed prohibitions. The draft includes phased notification to expedite the designation process. Agricultural practices and plantations will remain unaffected by the new provisions.

Talks involving Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and an expert committee on the matter continue | India News

Centre reissues Western Ghats eco-sensitive zone notification amid ongoing disputes with States over environmental and development concerns.