Wildlife Protection Act 1972

SACRED GROVES :ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE & CONSERVATION CHALLENGES

Sacred groves are community-protected patches of natural vegetation preserved due to religious and cultural beliefs, representing one of India’s oldest traditions of conservation. Found across diverse ecological regions, these landscapes act as biodiversity refuges, support groundwater recharge, prevent soil erosion, and help regulate local microclimates. They also serve as ecological corridors and genetic reservoirs for rare and endemic species. However, sacred groves are increasingly threatened by declining cultural practices, land encroachment, infrastructure and renewable energy projects, and the lack of proper mapping and legal recognition. Strengthening community rights under the Forest Rights Act, recognising them as Community Reserves or OECMs, and integrating traditional knowledge into modern conservation frameworks can enhance their role in biodiversity protection and climate resilience.

Dugongs and Seagrass Ecosystems

The Union Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has asked the Tamil Nadu government to revise the design of the proposed International Dugong Conservation Centre at Manora in Thanjavur district. Although the project aims to support dugong research, rescue, rehabilitation, and awareness, the committee raised concerns because most of the proposed construction falls within ecologically sensitive Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) areas, including a No Development Zone and regions with mangroves and seagrass meadows.

The EAC objected to the heavy use of conventional concrete structures in such a fragile coastal environment and recommended adopting low-impact, eco-friendly construction methods. It also suggested relocating as many facilities as possible outside the restricted zones and studying best practices from similar conservation centres. The project will be reconsidered only after a revised, environmentally sensitive plan is submitted.