How are the Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) in Kerala helping to protect endangered species?

The BMCs in Kerala's district panchayats are responsible for identifying, proposing, and notifying flora and fauna that are locally threatened, endemic, or culturally important as "official species" deserving urgent protection.

What types of species are being protected under Kerala's new biodiversity conservation framework?

Traditional crop varieties, medicinal plants, indigenous livestock breeds, and associated ecosystems may be recognized for conservation under the new framework in Kerala.

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Kerala Empowers Local Committees to Protect Endangered Species

Q: What is the Kerala government doing to protect endangered species?

The Kerala government has empowered district-level Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) to formally designate locally significant species for priority protection, ensuring legal safeguards and promoting conservation efforts rooted in local knowledge.

27 Oct

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Summary

Kerala government authorizes district-level Biodiversity Management Committees to designate locally threatened species for priority protection
New framework allows recognition of traditional crops, medicinal plants, and indigenous livestock for conservation
Pilot launched in Kasaragod and Kozhikode districts, with plans to expand across the state

Kerala Empowers Local Committees to Protect Endangered Species

As of 2025-10-27T12:24:05+00:00, the Kerala government has taken a significant step towards decentralized conservation by empowering district-level Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) to formally designate locally significant species for priority protection.

An order issued by the Environment department last month authorizes the BMCs in district panchayats to identify, propose, and notify flora and fauna that are locally threatened, endemic, or hold deep cultural importance as "official species." This new framework aims to ensure legal protection and promote conservation efforts rooted in local knowledge and participation.