A decade after the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) report authored by a group of experts led by him redefined the State’s socio-political and ecological concerns and narratives, Madhav Gadgil stands his ground.
In hindsight, Dr. Gadgil feels that no course correction is required for the report, which many consider as an ecological milestone for all the Ghats States, including Kerala.
“I stand 100% by whatever has been said in the report. By and large, I feel that the report has had a positive impact on the ecology of the country. The panel decided on the high, middle and low ecological sensitivity of the Ghats regions based on scientifically identified criteria. The panel report also brought to light specific evidence and corrupt practices of bureaucracy, especially the Forest department,” he asserts.
