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The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Hills, is a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India, spanning over 1,600 kilometers from Gujarat to Tamil Nadu. Known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, the Western Ghats is one of the eight “hottest biodiversity hotspots” in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site plays a crucial role in regulating the monsoon climate of the Indian peninsula and is an essential part of India’s ecological and cultural heritage.
The Western Ghats stretches across six states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
The Ghats form the western edge of the Deccan Plateau and are characterized by steep escarpments and rugged terrain. The Eastern Ghats, located on the other side of the Deccan Plateau, form a parallel system.
The Western Ghats are geologically old, believed to have formed around 150 million years ago during the break-up of the ancient Gondwana supercontinent.
The Deccan Traps, a large igneous province of layered volcanic rock, cover much of the northern Western Ghats, indicating extensive volcanic activity in prehistoric times.
The Western Ghats have a significant impact on India’s monsoon patterns, especially the southwest monsoon. Acting as a barrier, they force the moist monsoon winds to rise, resulting in heavy rainfall on the windward side (western slopes), making it one of the wettest places in India. The leeward side (eastern slopes) receives less rainfall, leading to semi-arid conditions in the region.
This rainfall pattern directly affects the agriculture, water resources, and forest cover in the states that the Western Ghats span.
The Western Ghats are renowned for their rich biodiversity and are considered a global biodiversity hotspot.
Numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, such as Periyar, Silent Valley, and Bandipur, are located in the Western Ghats to protect this rich biodiversity.
The Western Ghats are a vital watershed for peninsular India, with several important rivers originating here. These rivers are essential for agriculture, drinking water, and hydropower.
These rivers support millions of people and irrigate large tracts of agricultural land in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
The Western Ghats have varied soil types, supporting diverse agricultural practices.
The region’s favorable climate and fertile soil have made it one of the primary areas for spice and plantation crop production, contributing significantly to India’s agricultural economy.
The Western Ghats face numerous environmental challenges, primarily due to deforestation, mining, urbanization, and agricultural expansion.
In response, both the government and environmental organizations have implemented conservation initiatives:
The Western Ghats have been home to ancient civilizations and rich cultural traditions, reflected in the region’s temples, folk traditions, and architecture.
The Western Ghats have influenced the cultural and social life of the local communities, and they remain integral to the heritage of the Indian peninsula.
To preserve the Western Ghats while fostering development, the government has introduced various policies and projects:
These initiatives are designed to balance ecological preservation with economic growth, addressing the challenges of deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
The Western Ghats is a crucial part of India’s natural and cultural heritage, providing invaluable ecological services, resources, and biodiversity. Its protection is essential for ensuring climate regulation, water security, and agricultural stability. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the Western Ghats covers various aspects of the syllabus, including geography, environment, biodiversity, and sustainable development practices. Preparing on this topic not only aids in scoring in exams but also fosters a broader understanding of India’s ecological challenges and conservation needs.
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