Government of Kerala
The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the eight hottest hotspots of biological diversity in the world. The forests of Kerala, located in the Western Ghats, is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems, including tropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
Forest resource planning in these regions involves the systematic assessment, management, and conservation of forest resources to ensure sustainable use and ecological balance. Key aspects of forest resource planning include biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, community engagement, sustainable harvesting, wildlife conservation, forest fire management, and climate change adaptation.
Forest resource planning in the Western Ghats and Kerala faces several challenges, including deforestation, habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and human-wildlife conflict. However, there are also significant conservation efforts underway, including the ecosystem-based approach in forest management, the promotion of agroforestry and sustainable agriculture practices, and the implementation of community-based conservation initiatives.
Forest resource planning in India, including in the Western Ghats and Kerala, is guided by various policies and laws, including the National Forest Policy, 1988, the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Forest Rights Act, 2006. These provide the framework for sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation.
Efforts to address the challenges and implement effective conservation strategies are essential for the long-term health and resilience of these ecosystems.