Introduction:
The Kasturirangan Committee Report is a significant report related to the protection of the Western Ghats. It was formed to study the various aspects of conservation and sustainable development in the Western Ghats region. The report has gained prominence and has been in the news due to its recommendations and implications on the environment, biodiversity, and livelihoods of the people living in the Western Ghats.

Background:
The Western Ghats is a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India, covering six states. It is recognized as one of the world's biodiversity hotspots and is home to numerous endemic and endangered species. However, the region faces multiple threats such as deforestation, habitat loss, encroachment, mining, and unsustainable development practices.

Formation of Kasturirangan Committee:
In response to the concerns about the degradation of the Western Ghats, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) constituted the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) in 2010, also known as the Gadgil Committee. The Gadgil Committee submitted its report in 2011, which proposed a framework for the conservation and development of the Western Ghats.

However, the report faced strong opposition from various stakeholders, including state governments and industries, who argued that its recommendations were too stringent and would adversely affect development activities in the region. To address these concerns, the MoEF formed a High-Level Working Group (HLWG) under the chairmanship of K. Kasturirangan, a renowned scientist and former member of the Planning Commission.

Key Recommendations:
The Kasturirangan Committee Report, submitted in 2013, provided a revised approach to the conservation and development of the Western Ghats. Some of the key recommendations of the report are as follows:

1. Identification of Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs): The report proposed the identification of Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats based on scientific criteria. These areas would be accorded special protection and restrictions would be imposed on certain activities to ensure the conservation of biodiversity.

2. Gradated Response Approach: The report suggested a gradated response approach, dividing the ESAs into different zones based on their ecological significance and vulnerability. The level of restrictions and regulations would vary based on the zone, ensuring a balanced approach towards conservation and development.

3. Ban on Mining and Quarrying: The report recommended a complete ban on mining, quarrying, and sand mining activities in ESAs to prevent the degradation of the environment and water resources.

4. Promotion of Sustainable Development: The report emphasized the need for promoting sustainable development practices in the Western Ghats region. It recommended the implementation of eco-tourism initiatives, organic farming, watershed management, and other environmentally friendly activities to ensure the well-being of both the people and the environment.

Conclusion:
The Kasturirangan Committee Report is an important document that provides a roadmap for the conservation and sustainable development of the Western Ghats. Its recommendations aim to strike a balance between environmental protection and socio-economic development. The report has been a subject of debate and discussion, with various stakeholders expressing their views on the proposed measures. The implementation of the report's recommendations would play a crucial role in preserving the unique biodiversity of the Western Ghats and ensuring the well-being of the communities dependent on it.