Concept:An Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) is a buffer area around protected forests, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries to minimize human impact on fragile ecosystems.
Explanation:On June 3, 2022, a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court of India heard a PIL concerning forest protection in the Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu.
The court later expanded the scope to cover the entire country.
In its judgment, the court referred to the 2011 guidelines as “reasonable.”
It directed all states to create a mandatory ESZ of at least
1 km extending from the demarcated boundaries of every protected forest, national park, and wildlife sanctuary.
The National Wildlife Action Plan (2002–2016) had earlier proposed a
10 km buffer zone for such areas.
However, the Supreme Court’s directive specifically mandated a minimum of
1 km as the enforceable ESZ width.
These zones act as “shock absorbers” to reduce negative impacts from nearby human activities like mining, sawmills, and commercial wood use.
Regulated activities such as tree felling are controlled, while permitted activities like agriculture, rainwater harvesting, and organic farming continue.
Answer:Option A –
1 km starting from their demarcated boundaries.