The Gadgil report which rose to the limelight in the wake of Kerala floods have brought another dilemma to the minds of Keralites. “The people have not understood the core of my committee report. What have reached them are the deliberately misinterpreted version of the same. This is what resulted in its disapproval among the common man,” said Madhav Gadgil in a conversation with Prof. V.S.Vijayan at SPACES Fest.
The video conversation, fuelled heated discussion among the audience. “Habitat continuity needs to be assured for the protection of any area. The areas restricted as Ecologically Sensitive Zones are those rich in endemic species.” adding to the existing misconceptions regarding the demarcations.
Dr. V.S. Vijayan further added, stating about the clear distinction between the ecologically sensitive and ecologically protected areas. The former focusses on restoring ecologically damaged areas by strengthening agriculture.
The dialogue also gave insight to the pro-environment startergises adopted by the other countries like Japan and Bhutan. The Scandinavian countries who have topped the World Happiness Index are a clear example of the success of an eco-friendly administration. In a democratically deep rooted state like Kerala, such initiative should be adopted and transmitted to the very basic levels.
The session turned out to be an eye-opener, that delved into the vested interests of those in power, and how the question of ‘not wanting to educate’ still remains unanswered.