Karnataka minister rejects Kasturirangan report if farming restrictions imposed

Karnataka's Forest Minister Ponnanna on Wednesday expressed strong opposition to the Kasturirangan Committee's draft report, citing concerns that its recommendations could adversely affect farming communities in the Western Ghats.

Ponnanna made clear that any proposals limiting agricultural practices in the ecologically sensitive region would face resistance from the state government. The minister's statement reflects growing apprehension among farmers and policymakers about the potential economic impact of conservation measures recommended by the expert committee.

The Kasturirangan Committee was tasked with assessing land use patterns and recommending conservation strategies for the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot spanning multiple states. However, farming communities have expressed worry that stricter environmental regulations could restrict their livelihoods.

The minister's position signals that Karnataka will seek amendments to any recommendations that unduly burden agricultural stakeholders. The state government is likely to engage with the committee to ensure that conservation efforts are balanced with the socio-economic needs of farming communities dependent on Western Ghats agriculture.