Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Declared Eco-Sensitive Zone

Environmental conservation efforts have received a boost with the declaration of an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Rajasthan. The notification focuses on protecting the fragile ecology of the Aravalli mountain range while ensuring that conservation goes hand in hand with community welfare and sustainable development in surrounding areas.

Why in News?

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has issued a notification declaring Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary as an Eco-Sensitive Zone. The move aims to conserve biodiversity and support local communities living near the sanctuary.

Declaration of Eco-Sensitive Zone

• The Eco-Sensitive Zone has been notified in the area extending from zero to one kilometre around the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Aravalli Range.
• Eco-Sensitive Zones are areas notified under environmental laws to regulate activities around protected regions.
• This declaration helps control unplanned development, mining, and industrial expansion near ecologically fragile zones.
• The ESZ status ensures that conservation priorities are balanced with regulated human activities, protecting forests, water resources, and wildlife habitats in the region.

Biodiversity and Wildlife Importance

• Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and diverse habitats.
• The area supports wildlife such as leopard, striped hyena, jungle cat, Indian pangolin, blue bull (nilgai), and chinkara.
• The sanctuary is also home to several bird species, including the painted francolin, making it important for bird conservation.
• Declaring the surrounding area as an Eco-Sensitive Zone helps protect migration corridors, breeding grounds, and food chains essential for the survival of these species.

Benefits for Local and Indigenous Communities

• According to Bhupender Yadav, the ESZ notification will support indigenous and local communities living in and around the sanctuary.
• The focus is not only on conservation but also on sustainable livelihoods. Activities such as organic farming, agroforestry, and eco friendly practices will be promoted.

About Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ)

Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ)	Areas around National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries acting as shock absorbers. As per the National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016), Land within 10 km of park/sanctuary boundaries is generally notified as ESZ. The 10 km rule is a guideline; actual ESZ extent can vary. Areas beyond 10 km can also be notified if ecologically important (“sensitive corridors”).
Purpose of ESZ	Protect fragile ecosystems from negative human impact. Serve as a transition zone: higher protection inside parks → lesser protection outside. Do not hamper daily activities of local people. Aim to refine the environment around protected areas.
Prohibited Activities in ESZ	Commercial mining Saw mills Commercial use of wood Felling of trees (except regulated cases)
Permitted Activities in ESZ	Ongoing agriculture/horticulture Rainwater harvesting Organic farming Other non-harmful activities
Number of ESZs in India	Notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. More than 600 ESZs declared across different states.

Key Summary at a Glance

Aspect	Details
Why in News?	Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary declared Eco-Sensitive Zone
Issuing Authority	Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Location	Aravalli Range, Rajasthan
ESZ Coverage	0-1 km around the sanctuary
Key Wildlife	Leopard, pangolin, chinkara, blue bull
Community Focus	Organic farming, agroforestry, skill development

Question

Q. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which mountain range?

A. Himalayas
B. Vindhyas
C. Aravalli
D. Satpura