Context: The Supreme Court has directed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to conduct an extensive survey of the entire tropical forest ecosystems of the Agasthyamalai landscape in the southernmost Western Ghats to identify non-forestry activities and encroachments.
Meaning of the context: SC termed the survey as an interim measure “to initiate the process of restoration of the pristine forest areas and to protect the tiger habitats, wildlife reserves and sanctuaries falling under the Agasthyamalai biosphere”.
Learn More:
- Agasthyamala, also known as Agastya Mala, is a prominent peak in the Western Ghats, located at the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, which is recognized for its rich biodiversity and ecological significance.
Key Features
- Includes the Agasthyarkoodam peak (approx. 1,868 m) – the second highest peak in Kerala.
- Geographical Location: Lies between Thiruvananthapuram district (Kerala) and Tirunelveli district (Tamil Nadu).
- Rivers Originating Here: The Thamirabarani River originates from the eastern side, while the Neyyar and Karamana Rivers flow westward.
Ecological and Cultural Importance
- Lies within the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot.
- UNESCO Recognition: The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve was included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2016.
- Spiritual Significance: Named after Sage Agastya, a revered figure in Hindu mythology, believed to have meditated in this region.
- The Biosphere Reserve is inhabited by the Kanikaran (also known as Kanis), who are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). Their traditional knowledge of medicinal plants is significant, and it notably led to the development of the herbal drug Jeevani, which is considered a major success story in bioprospecting and benefit-sharing in India.
Source : The Hindu