Karnataka panel member seeks special constitutional status for Western Ghats
S Mohandass Hegde has proposed inserting Article 371K to address the unique ecological and developmental needs of the region.
S Mohandass Hegde, a member of the Karnataka State Policy and Planning Commission, has requested the Centre to grant special constitutional status to the Western Ghats in Karnataka, according to the Deccan Herald.
In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Hegde suggested that this status could be implemented by adding a new provision, Article 371K.
The proposal aims to manage the specific ecological, geographical, social, and developmental requirements of the area. Hegde stated that the move would allow for an independent review of existing regulations in the Ghats.
The letter noted that the initiative could facilitate an integrated 10-year policy covering conservation, agriculture, regional development, investment, and financial convergence.
The proposed framework is intended to provide scientific environmental governance, livelihood security, and inclusive economic development under a single national system, the letter said.