The Nilgiri Documentation Centre (NDC) has formally expressed its opposition to the proposed implementation of a decarbonisation project within the Nilgiris district. This initiative, part of the government’s wider District Decarbonisation Action Plans (DDAP), aims to introduce measures such as forest conservation, agroforestry, and wetland conservation.
According to Dharmalingam Venugopal, honorary director of the NDC, the organization contends that the project could inflict "huge damage" on the district and its economy. He asserts that the Nilgiris is already a "carbon surplus district" with approximately 60% of its land dedicated to various forms of forestry, rendering further forest expansion neither feasible nor desirable. The NDC also raised concerns that potential restrictions on tourism, purportedly for decarbonisation, could severely impact the livelihood of the district's non-indigenous population, who rely heavily on the industry.
Furthermore, the NDC has urged the government to grant forest rights to Adivasi communities before proceeding with climate-related projects. The organization also pointed out the absence of mention of the Badagas, described as the largest ethno-linguistic group in the Nilgiris, within the project's scope. The NDC concluded its appeal by requesting the project's cancellation, reiterating the district's current carbon surplus status.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/ndc-opposes-implementation-of-decarbonisation-project-in-the-nilgiris/article70244576.ece