Neelakurinji facing threat from unregulated tourism, infra expansion: report
Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, in an affidavit, says these activities not only reduce the habitat extent of the species, but also disrupt its critical ecological processes
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Context
The () has submitted a report to the () highlighting the severe threats faced by the Neelakurinji (), an endemic shrub of the Western Ghats. The took suo motu cognisance (action taken by a court on its own initiative without a formal petition) of news reports detailing the species' endangered status due to unregulated tourism and infrastructure development.
UPSC Perspectives
Environmental
This issue perfectly illustrates the tension between development and biodiversity conservation in fragile ecosystems like the Western Ghats. The Neelakurinji is a keystone species for its habitat, known for its unique plietesial life cycle (blooming once every 12 years). Its classification as a 'threatened species' underscores the devastating impact of habitat destruction caused by uncontrolled tourism and infrastructure expansion. The report to the () highlights the urgent need for ex-situ (outside natural habitat) and in-situ (within natural habitat) conservation strategies. UPSC aspirants should note the specific ecological requirements of Strobilanthes kunthiana, particularly its dependence on the high-altitude Shola forests and grasslands of the Western Ghats. Questions often focus on the ecological significance of endemic species and the specific threats they face, such as habitat fragmentation and the introduction of invasive species, which are exacerbated by human activities.
Governance
The intervention of the () demonstrates the crucial role of specialized environmental courts in enforcing conservation laws. The took suo motu cognisance, highlighting the proactive role the judiciary can play when executive action is insufficient. This action reflects the state's responsibility to protect the environment under of the , which mandates the state to protect and improve the environment and safeguard forests and wildlife. Furthermore, it touches upon the fundamental duty of every citizen under to protect and improve the natural environment. The case emphasizes the need for robust eco-tourism policies that regulate visitor numbers and infrastructure development in ecologically sensitive zones. For UPSC Mains, this scenario serves as an excellent case study on the effectiveness of statutory bodies like the in mitigating the negative externalities of development and ensuring compliance with the .
Geographical
The Neelakurinji's habitat is intrinsically linked to the geography of the Western Ghats, a recognized global biodiversity hotspot. The shrub is primarily found in the high-altitude Shola-grassland ecosystem of the Nilgiri Hills, Palani Hills, and the Munnar region of Kerala. This unique ecosystem, characterized by stunted tropical montane forests interspersed with expansive grasslands, is highly vulnerable to climatic changes and anthropogenic pressures. The localized distribution of Strobilanthes kunthiana makes it an endemic species, meaning it is found nowhere else on Earth. This restricted range increases its susceptibility to extinction. UPSC Prelims frequently tests knowledge of specific geographical regions and their associated flora and fauna. Understanding the geographic distribution of the Neelakurinji and the ecological characteristics of the Shola forests is essential for answering questions related to biogeography and conservation priorities in India.