The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) convened a high-level meeting on the Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone (BESZ), in Dehradun today. The meeting was chaired by the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav. 

 

The deliberations centered on ensuring effective implementation of the BESZ notification. Discussions highlighted the importance of conserving the region’s rich biodiversity while harmonizing ecological priorities with local aspirations and livelihoods through a balanced and sustainable development approach.

Shri Yadav underscored the need for a structured and coordinated framework for protection and conservation of rich biodiversity and ecosystem of Bhagirathi Ecosensitive Zone, which  is the origin  of Ganges River. He emphasized that such efforts must be anchored in scientific and evidence-based studies, integrated development planning, clearly defined institutional mechanisms, and robust monitoring and enforcement systems. Stressing that unscientific development in eco-sensitive areas often results in avoidable disasters, the Minister called for a precautionary and informed approach to mitigate risks.

Shri Yadav further highlighted the importance of convergence among stakeholders to ensure that environmental protection measures are seamlessly aligned with developmental priorities, thereby safeguarding both ecological integrity and community well-being in the Bhagirathi region.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary, Government of Uttarakhand, senior officials of the State Government, members of the Monitoring Committee, Secretary, MoEFCC, Director General of Forests & Special Secretary (DGF&SS), and other senior officials of the Ministry.

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VM

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