Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia
Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site

Why in the News?

The Tamil Nadu CM has requested the Prime Minister to cancel the tungsten mining rights in Madurai, citing concerns for the Arittapatti biodiversity heritage site.

About Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site:

Details • First BHS in Tamil Nadu.
• Notified for its ecological and historical significance.
Geological Features • Surrounded by a chain of seven hillocks (inselbergs) which act as a watershed.
• Watershed feeds 72 lakes, 200 natural springs, and 3 check dams.
• Historic Anaikondan tank built during the Pandiyan kings in the 16th century.
Flora and Fauna • Home to 250 species of birds, including Laggar Falcon, Shaheen Falcon, and Bonelli’s Eagle.
• Hosts species like Indian Pangolin, Slender Loris, and pythons.
Cultural Significance • Presence of megalithic structures, rock-cut temples, Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, and Jain beds.
• These features highlight the site’s historical and cultural heritage.

 

Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site

Back2Basics: Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS)

  • A BHS is a well-defined, ecologically sensitive area that is recognized for its high biological diversity.
  • Key Features:
    • High Biodiversity: These sites host a variety of wild and domesticated species, including rare, threatened, and keystone species.
    • Ecological Fragility: BHS areas are considered ecologically fragile and are crucial for maintaining local ecosystems.
    • Community Involvement: BHS areas are managed by local communities and society to conserve biodiversity.
  • BHS are declared under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and the State Government can notify such areas in consultation with local bodies.
  • The Nallur Tamarind Grove in Bengaluru, Karnataka, was the first Biodiversity Heritage Site in India, declared in 2007.
  • Protection Measures:
    • The creation of a BHS does not necessarily restrict activities but aims to conserve and manage the biodiversity within these areas for long-term sustainability.

 

PYQ:

[2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are:

(a) Birds
(b) Primates
(c) Reptiles
(d) Amphibians

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