News & Analysis : Achievements of Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change plus UPSC Q & A

In this new blog you are going to get info on achievements of ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change. It is important for UPSC and anyways it is important for GK. So give it a glance.

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A concise yet informative overview of the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEFCC), along with its introduction, role, importance, and achievements under the Modi Government:

Introduction

The Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEFCC) is a key branch of the Government of India, responsible for planning, promoting, coordinating, and overseeing the implementation of India’s environmental and forestry policies and programs. It was established in 1985 and is headquartered in New Delhi.

Role of the Ministry

Policy Formulation – Creates national environmental policies related to conservation of forests, wildlife, pollution control, and climate change.
Legislation & Regulation – Implements environmental laws like the Environment Protection Act, Forest Conservation Act, and Wildlife Protection Act.
Biodiversity Conservation – Protects India’s rich biodiversity through national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and eco-sensitive zones.
Climate Change Action – Leads India’s participation in global climate summits and frames strategies for emission reduction and renewable energy.
Forest Management – Oversees afforestation programs and forest resource management across states.
Pollution Control – Monitors and regulates air, water, and soil pollution through agencies like the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Importance of the Ministry

Protects natural ecosystems, ensuring sustainability for future generations.
Balances development with ecological preservation.
Helps India meet international environmental commitments like the Paris Agreement.
Provides disaster preparedness and mitigation support in climate-sensitive zones.
Promotes green jobs and sustainable growth through initiatives like green cover expansion and eco-tourism.

Key Achievements under the Modi Government (2014–Present)

International Leadership
- India played a key role in the Paris Climate Agreement (2015).
- Launched the International Solar Alliance (ISA), co-led by India and France.
- Modi received the UNEP Champions of the Earth Award in 2018.
Afforestation & Green Cover
- Over 3% increase in forest and tree cover (State of Forest Report 2021).
- Massive tree plantation drives under programs like CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund).
Air Quality Initiatives
- Launched the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 levels by 20–30% by 2024.
- Promotion of cleaner fuels like BS-VI emission norms and electric vehicles (EVs).
Climate Action
- India committed to net-zero emissions by 2070.
- Expansion of renewable energy capacity to 175 GW (achieved significant solar and wind power growth).
Eco-sensitive Zones
- Declaration of 100+ eco-sensitive zones around protected areas to limit industrial activity.
Wildlife Conservation
- Growth in tiger, leopard, and elephant populations.
- Expansion of protected areas and better wildlife monitoring systems (e.g., M-STrIPES app).
Waste Management Rules (2016)
- Overhaul of Solid Waste, Plastic Waste, E-Waste, and Bio-medical Waste rules to improve segregation and recycling.

UPSC Questions in detail about Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change

1) Discuss the role and significance of the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEFCC) in balancing ecological sustainability with developmental goals.

The Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEFCC) plays a pivotal role in India’s governance by ensuring that developmental activities align with ecological sustainability. Its significance lies in balancing economic growth with environmental conservation, a critical challenge for a rapidly developing nation like India.

Key Roles of MoEFCC:

Environmental Regulation & Policy Formulation:
- The MoEFCC enforces key environmental laws like the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- It sets standards for pollution control, waste management, and sustainable resource use.
Forest & Biodiversity Conservation:
- Manages India’s forest cover (currently ~24% of land area) through afforestation programs like Green India Mission.
- Protects critical ecosystems and endangered species via initiatives like Project Tiger and National Biodiversity Authority.
Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation:
- Implements India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, focusing on renewable energy, carbon sinks, and resilience.
- Promotes schemes like the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
Clearance & Compliance for Development Projects:
- Grants Environmental Clearances (EC) and Forest Clearances (FC) for infrastructure, mining, and industrial projects under EIA Notification, 2006.
- Ensures compensatory afforestation and ecological safeguards while permitting land diversion.

Balancing Development & Sustainability:

Sustainable Infrastructure: The MoEFCC mandates Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs)to minimize ecological damage from projects like highways, dams, and industries.
Green Growth Initiatives: Promotes renewable energy (solar/wind), green hydrogen, and eco-tourism to align growth with sustainability.
Conflict Resolution: Often faces tensions between industrial growth (e.g., mining in forest areas) and conservation needs, requiring careful policy mediation.

Challenges:

Bureaucratic Delays: Environmental clearances can slow down projects, raising concerns about economic growth.
Enforcement Gaps: Illegal mining, deforestation, and pollution violations persist due to weak compliance mechanisms.
Climate Justice: Ensuring equitable development while protecting vulnerable communities (e.g., tribal lands affected by projects).

Conclusion:

The MoEFCC is crucial in ensuring that India’s development trajectory remains ecologically sustainable. While challenges exist, its policies aim to harmonize economic progress with long-term environmental health, reflecting the principle of “Development without Destruction.” Strengthening governance, community participation, and green technologies will be key to achieving this balance.

2) “India has shown leadership in global climate action under the Modi government.” Substantiate with examples of international and national initiatives.

India’s leadership in climate initiatives:

International Leadership & Initiatives

International Solar Alliance (ISA) – 2015
- Initiative: Co-founded by India & France at COP21 to promote solar energy in 120+ tropical countries.
- Impact: Mobilized $1 trillion in solar investments; operationalized projects in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
- Quote: Modi called it the “OPEC of solar energy,” reducing fossil fuel dependence globally.
Panchamrit Action Plan – COP26 (2021)
- Commitments:
  - 500 GW non-fossil energy capacity by 2030.
  - 50% energy from renewables by 2030.
  - Carbon intensity reduction by 45% (2005 baseline).
  - Net-zero by 2070.
- Significance: First major developing nation to set a net-zero target despite low per capita emissions.
LiFE Movement (Lifestyle for Environment) – 2022
- Initiative: Global mass movement promoting sustainable consumption, launched at COP26.
- Impact: Endorsed by the UN; inspired G20’s “Green Development Pact” (2023).
Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) – 2019
- Goal: Climate-proof infrastructure in vulnerable nations (e.g., small island states).
- Funding: India pledged $48 million; 39 countries joined.
Global Biofuels Alliance – G20 (2023)
- Initiative: Led by India with USA, Brazil, and others to boost ethanol blending and alternative fuels.
- Target: 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025 (currently ~12%).

National Initiatives

Renewable Energy Expansion
- Solar Power: Installed capacity surged from 21 GW (2014) to 75 GW (2024) (4th globally).
- Wind Energy: 45 GW capacity (7th globally).
- Hybrid Projects: World’s largest renewable energy park in Gujarat (30 GW).
National Hydrogen Mission (2021)
- Goal: Make India a global hub for green hydrogen production (5 MMT/year by 2030).
Electric Mobility Push
- FAME-II Scheme: ₹10,000 crore subsidy for EVs; 6.7 lakh EVs supported (2023).
- E-buses: 10,000 electric buses deployed under PM-eBus Sewa.
Afforestation & Conservation
- CAMPA Fund: ₹66,000 crore for compensatory afforestation.
- Forest Cover Increase: Added 2,261 sq km (2019–2021) despite developmental pressures.
Swachh Bharat & Waste Management
- Circular Economy: Ban on single-use plastics (2022); waste-to-energy plants.
- Swachh Bharat Mission: Improved sanitation, reducing methane emissions from landfills.
Agricultural Reforms
- PM-PRANAM Scheme: Incentivizes states to reduce chemical fertilizers.
- Soil Health Cards: Promoted organic farming, reducing emissions.

Diplomatic Wins

G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration (2023): Pushed for tripling global renewables by 2030.
COP28 (2023): Advocated for phase-down (not phase-out) of fossil fuels, reflecting developing nations’ needs.

Why It Matters

India’s climate leadership is unique because:
Equity Focus: Stresses “common but differentiated responsibilities” (CBDR) in global forums.
Scale & Speed: Fastest-growing major economy with declining emission intensity (-33% since 2005).
Holistic Approach: Links climate action with poverty alleviation (e.g., solar power for rural electrification).

Criticism: Some argue India’s coal dependence persists, but its per capita emissions (2.4 tCO₂)remain far below global averages (6.3 tCO₂).

Conclusion

From the ISA to LiFE, India has redefined climate diplomacy by blending traditional wisdom (e.g., Yoga for sustainability) with modern tech (solar/wind/hydrogen). While challenges like coal reliance remain, its policy ambition and global coalition-building underscore Modi’s vision of India as a “Vishwaguru” (global teacher) in climate action.

3) Analyze the effectiveness of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in tackling the growing air pollution in Indian cities. What challenges does it face?

Effectiveness of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in Tackling Air Pollution

Launched in 2019, the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aims to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 20-30% by 2024 (later extended to 40% reduction by 2026) in 132 non-attainment cities (cities exceeding national air quality standards). While NCAP has driven policy action, its effectiveness remains mixed due to implementation challenges.

Key Achievements & Effectiveness

1. Improved Air Quality Monitoring

Expansion of Monitoring Stations:
- Manual stations increased from 703 (2019) to 1,200+ (2024).
- Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) rose from 84 to 500+.
Real-time Data (SAFAR, AQI Portal): Better public awareness and policy targeting.

2. City-Specific Action Plans

132 cities have Clean Air Action Plans focusing on:
- Vehicular Pollution: Push for BS-VI fuels, electric vehicles, and public transport.
- Industrial Emissions: Transition to cleaner fuels, stricter enforcement.
- Dust Control: Road sweeping, construction site regulations.
- Waste Burning: Penalties and alternatives like waste-to-energy plants.

3. Some Reduction in Pollution Levels

2022-23 CPCB Report:
- 49 cities saw PM10 reduction (e.g., Varanasi (-44%), Ahmedabad (-39%)).
- But only 38 cities met the 20-30% target; others saw stagnation or worsening.
Delhi-NCR: Marginal improvement due to GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) and CNG transitions, but still severely polluted.

4. Funding & Capacity Building

₹9,650 crore allocated since 2019.
Technology Interventions:
- Smog towers (Delhi), water sprinklers, and anti-smog guns.
- SATHEE Portal for air quality forecasting.

Major Challenges & Limitations

1. Weak Enforcement & Compliance

Lack of Penalties: Industries and construction flout norms due to weak fines and corruption.
Poor Coordination: Multiple agencies (CPCB, state boards, municipalities) work in silos.

2. Inadequate Focus on Key Pollution Sources

Stubble Burning (Punjab-Haryana): Only 11% reduction despite ₹3,000 crore subsidies for happy seeders.
Diesel Generators & Vehicular Emissions: Slow EV adoption; BS-VI norms not strictly enforced.
Biomass & Solid Fuel Use: 300 million still use chulhas (major PM2.5 contributor).

3. Funding & Implementation Gaps

Delayed Fund Disbursal: Only 60% of allocated funds utilized (CAG report).
Local Bodies Lack Expertise: Many cities lack technical capacity to implement plans.

4. Climate & Geographic Constraints

Winter Inversions (North India): Natural factors worsen pollution, making NCAP measures insufficient.
Cross-Border Pollution (e.g., Dust from Rajasthan, Punjab farm fires) requires regional cooperation.

5. Lack of Behavioral Change

Public Apathy: Open waste burning, Diwali crackers, and poor compliance persist.
Industry Resistance: Coal-based plants delay retrofitting pollution controls.

Way Ahead

Strict Penalties & Accountability: Real-time fines for violators (like China’s model).
Source-Specific Solutions:
- Stubble Management: Scale up bio-decomposers, biogas plants.
- EV Push: Faster adoption of electric buses, 2-wheelers.
Integrated Regional Plans: Joint action with Pakistan, Nepal on transboundary dust.
Public Participation: Awareness campaigns + incentives for clean practices.

Conclusion

NCAP has laid the groundwork for air quality management but suffers from slow execution, funding gaps, and weak enforcement. While cities like Varanasi, Ahmedabad show progress, Delhi, Patna, and Lucknow remain critical. Stronger political will, tech-driven monitoring, and public engagement are needed to make NCAP truly effective.

4) Evaluate the contribution of the CAMPA Fund in forest regeneration and afforestation efforts. How transparent and efficient is its implementation?

Evaluation of the CAMPA Fund in Forest Regeneration & Afforestation

The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) was established to compensate for forest land diverted for industrial and infrastructure projects. Since its legalization in 2016 (via the CAMPA Act), it has played a crucial but debated role in India’s afforestation efforts.

Key Contributions of CAMPA

1. Financial Resources for Afforestation

Funds Collected: Over ₹66,000 crore (as of 2024) from industries and projects diverting forest land.
Utilization:
- Afforestation: 10 lakh+ hectares since 2016.
- Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR): Revival of degraded forests.
- Wildlife Protection: Anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration.

2. State-Level Afforestation Drives

State CAMPA Funds: 90% of funds go to states, supporting:
- Green India Mission (additional 5 million hectares by 2030).
- Urban forestry (e.g., Nagar Van Yojana).
Notable Successes:
- Odisha: 50,000+ hectares restored.
- Madhya Pradesh: Increased forest cover by 1.5% (2019-2021).

3. Employment & Livelihood Support

Jobs Created: Over 15 million workdays for tribal and rural communities.
Eco-Development: Supports NTFP (Non-Timber Forest Produce) cultivation, reducing dependency on illegal logging.

Challenges in Transparency & Efficiency

1. Delayed Fund Utilization

CAG Report (2023): Only 40-50% of funds used by states; ₹30,000+ crore remains unspent.
Bureaucratic Hurdles: Complex approval processes delay projects.

2. Questionable Afforestation Success

Survival Rate of Saplings: Only 20-30% in many states due to poor maintenance.
Misclassification: Grasslands, monoculture plantations counted as “forests,” reducing biodiversity benefits.

3. Corruption & Misuse

Audit Findings (CAG):
- Funds diverted to non-forestry uses (e.g., road construction).
- Fake plantations reported in Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand.

4. Lack of Community Involvement

Tribal Rights Ignored: Violations of Forest Rights Act (FRA) in some states.
Top-Down Approach: Limited participation of local communities in planning.

5. Ecological Concerns

Monoculture Plantations: Preference for commercial species (e.g., teak, eucalyptus) over native biodiversity.
No Net Gain: Forest quality often declines despite “compensatory” plantations.

Way Forward for Improvement

Strict Audits & Real-Time Tracking: Use GIS and drone monitoring for transparency.
Higher Survival Rates: Focus on native species, community-led care.
Faster Disbursement: Simplify fund release mechanisms.
Strengthen FRA Compliance: Ensure tribal consent in afforestation projects.
Performance-Linked Funding: Reward states with high survival rates.

Conclusion

While CAMPA has mobilized significant funds and supported afforestation, inefficient spending, corruption, and ecological trade-offs limit its impact. Greater transparency, community engagement, and ecological sensitivity are needed to ensure CAMPA fulfills its mandate of “no net loss” of forests.

5) The Ministry of Environment is often at the center of conflicts between development and conservation. Examine how Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) are used to resolve this.

Introduction

India’s rapid economic growth has often led to conflicts between environmental conservation and infrastructure development. The Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEFCC) plays a critical role in balancing these interests. One of the key tools it uses is the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) — a systematic process that evaluates the potential environmental effects of proposed industrial or developmental projects.

Role of EIA in Resolving the Conflict

Scientific Evaluation of Impact
- EIA identifies, predicts, and evaluates the environmental consequences of a proposed project before the decision is made.
- Helps weigh ecological cost against developmental benefits.
Informed Decision-Making
- Provides a knowledge base to policymakers, allowing approvals to be based on data and environmental safeguards.
Stakeholder Participation
- Mandates public hearings, allowing local communities, environmental activists, and other stakeholders to voice concerns.
Mitigation Measures
- EIA suggests alternatives and mitigation strategies to reduce harmful impacts, making development more sustainable.
Legal Safeguard
- Ensures compliance with the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and other environmental laws, reducing arbitrary clearances.
Monitoring and Compliance
- Post-clearance monitoring ensures that projects adhere to conditions laid out during the approval process.

Challenges in EIA Implementation

Dilution of EIA Norms
- The EIA Notification 2020 draft was criticized for allowing post-facto approvals and reduced public consultation.
Poor Public Participation
- Many public hearings are inadequately conducted, especially in tribal and rural areas where awareness is low.
Data Manipulation
- Environmental consultants hired by project proponents may present biased reports.
Lack of Transparency
- Limited access to reports and decisions reduces accountability.

Recent Improvements & Government Efforts

Introduction of PARIVESH portal for faster and more transparent clearance processes.
Use of GIS-based decision support systems to map eco-sensitive zones.
Efforts to improve capacity of State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs).

Conclusion

The EIA is a crucial bridge between development and conservation. When implemented transparently and rigorously, it can harmonize economic growth with ecological sustainability. However, for it to truly resolve conflicts, reforms must strengthen public participation, transparency, and accountability in the process.

6) Critically assess the progress made by India in achieving its Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

Critical Assessment of India’s Progress Towards its Paris Agreement INDCs

India’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs), submitted under the Paris Agreement (2015) and later updated in 2022, set ambitious climate targets. While the country has made notable progress in renewable energy and emission intensity reduction, challenges persist in coal dependency, forest cover, and adaptation financing. Below is a detailed, critical evaluation.

India’s Key INDCs & Progress Assessment

1. Reducing Emission Intensity of GDP

Target: 45% reduction by 2030 (from 2005 levels).
Progress:
- Achieved 33% reduction (2016-2022)—on track.
- Driven by energy efficiency (PAT Scheme), renewables, and industrial upgrades.
Challenges:
- Coal-heavy industries (steel, cement) slow down further reductions.
- Economic growth vs. decarbonization trade-offs emerging.

2. Renewable Energy Capacity Expansion

Target: 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030 (including 280 GW solar).
Progress:
- 190 GW (2024) installed (solar: 75 GW, wind: 45 GW).
- World’s 4th-largest renewable energy capacity.
Challenges:
- Land acquisition delays, transmission bottlenecks.
- Slow rooftop solar adoption (only 11 GW vs. 40 GW target).

3. Fossil Fuel Dependency & Coal Power

Target: 50% electricity from renewables by 2030.
Progress:
- 43% (2024) from non-fossil sources (hydro + nuclear included).
- Coal still dominates (75% of generation) due to rising energy demand.
Challenges:
- New coal plants (~30 GW under construction) contradict green pledges.
- No coal phase-down commitment unlike Western nations.

4. Carbon Sink Expansion (Forest & Tree Cover)

Target: Create 2.5-3 billion tonnes of CO₂ sink by 2030.
Progress:
- Forest cover increased by 2,261 sq km (2019-21) but mostly via plantations, not natural forests.
- CAMPA Fund underutilized; afforestation survival rates low (~30%).
Challenges:
- Diversion of forest land for infrastructure (e.g., highways, mining).
- Biodiversity loss due to monoculture plantations.

5. Climate Adaptation & Finance

Target: Strengthen resilience in agriculture, water, and health sectors.
Progress:
- National Adaptation Fund (NAF) allocated ₹1,100+ crore but underutilized.
- Early warning systems improved (e.g., cyclone forecasting).
Challenges:
- Limited funding (only 10% of climate finance goes to adaptation).
- Vulnerable communities (farmers, coastal populations) still at high risk.

Critical Gaps & Contradictions

Renewables Growth vs. Coal Expansion:
- While renewables grow, coal production hit 1 billion tonnes (2024)—undermining decarbonization.
Afforestation vs. Forest Diversions:
- 10,000+ hectares of forest land diverted annually for projects, offsetting gains.
Lack of Binding Sectoral Targets:
- No clear roadmap for steel, cement, transport decarbonization.
Private Sector & Int’l Finance Shortfall:
- Needs $2.5 trillion for 2030 targets but only 25% mobilized (mostly public funds).

Overall Assessment: Partial Success, Major Hurdles Ahead

On Track:

Emission intensity, renewable capacity.
Moderate Progress:
Carbon sinks, adaptation.
Lagging Behind:
Coal dependency, industrial decarbonization.

Key Recommendations

Accelerate coal phase-down with just transition plans.
Boost rooftop solar & storage to meet 500 GW target.
Strictly regulate forest diversions & improve CAMPA transparency.
Mobilize global climate finance via Green Bonds & carbon markets.

Conclusion

India is ahead of many developing nations in climate action but faces structural challenges in energy transition and forest conservation. Achieving INDCs by 2030 requires stronger policy enforcement, green financing, and just transition strategies.

7) How has the expansion of eco-sensitive zones helped in environmental protection? Discuss its impact on local communities and biodiversity.

Impact of Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) on Environmental Protection, Biodiversity, and Local Communities

Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) are buffer areas around Protected Areas (PAs) like national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, regulated under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Their primary goal is to minimize ecological damage from developmental activities while balancing human needs.

1. Environmental Protection Benefits

a) Reduced Habitat Fragmentation

Restricts mining, industries, and large constructions near forests, preventing wildlife corridor disruption.
Example: ESZs in Western Ghats helped curb illegal quarrying, protecting endemic species like the Lion-Tailed Macaque.

b) Pollution & Encroachment Control

Regulates tourism, waste disposal, and plastic use in buffer zones (e.g., Jim Corbett ESZ bans plastic).
Example: Kaziranga ESZ reduced river pollution from nearby towns, aiding rhino conservation.

c) Climate Resilience

Maintains watersheds and carbon sinks by restricting deforestation.
Example: Mumbai’s Aarey ESZ (though contested) protects a critical urban forest.

2. Biodiversity Conservation Impact

a) Wildlife Protection

Reduces human-wildlife conflict by regulating settlements near forests.
Example: Nilgiri ESZ helped reduce elephant deaths from road/rail accidents.

b) Habitat Restoration

Promotes native vegetation by banning invasive species plantations.
Example: Periyar Tiger Reserve ESZ revived native shola grasslands.

c) Endangered Species Recovery

Strict regulation of poaching & habitat destruction in buffer zones.
Example: Sundarbans ESZ improved tiger and mangrove conservation.

3. Impact on Local Communities

Positive Effects

Sustainable Livelihoods:

Eco-tourism (homestays, guided tours) generates income (e.g., Sikkim’s Khangchendzonga ESZ).
NTFP (Non-Timber Forest Produce) rights preserved for tribal communities.

Health Benefits:

Cleaner air/water due to reduced industrial pollution.

Negative Effects

Restrictions on Development:

Ban on new hotels, roads, and industries limits economic growth.
Example: Protests in Goa’s Bhagwan Mahavir ESZ over tourism restrictions.

Displacement & Livelihood Loss:

Farmers and fishermen face restrictions on land use (e.g., Kerala’s Athirappilly ESZ).
Compensation delays for affected communities.

Bureaucratic Delays:

Confusion over ESZ boundaries (e.g., Supreme Court’s 2022 1-km default rule caused clashes).

4. Key Challenges

Weak Enforcement:
- Illegal construction and mining still occur (e.g., Aravalli ESZ violations).
One-Size-Fits-All Approach:
- Uniform ESZ rules ignore regional ecological variations.
Lack of Community Participation:
- Locals often excluded from decision-making, leading to conflicts.

5. Way Ahead

Participatory Management: Involve Gram Sabhas in ESZ planning (as per Forest Rights Act).
Climate-Smart Livelihoods: Promote agroforestry, eco-tourism, and renewable energy.
Tech-Driven Monitoring: Use GIS, drones to track violations.
Flexible Zoning: Customize ESZ rules based on ecological sensitivity.

Conclusion

ESZs have significantly reduced habitat destruction and supported biodiversity but face implementation gaps and socio-economic trade-offs. Balancing conservation and community rights through inclusive policies is crucial for long-term success.

Useful Links :

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

Draft EIA Notification 2020

PARIVESH – Online Environment Clearance Portal