Question raised in Rajya Sabha on Eco-sensitive areas, 25/04/2016. The concept of Eco-sensitive Zone is to conserve biodiversity and endangered wildlife and protect environment around the protected areas such as National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, as a ‘safety zone’ without impeding legitimate socio-economic development of the area and also providing adequate opportunities for livelihood security of the local people. An ‘Eco-sensitive Zone’ is notified under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, wherein the following factors are, inter alia, considered - biological diversity of the area and their conservation, proximity to Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park and wildlife corridors. Restriction of certain identified projects/activities which could have adverse impact on the wildlife is imposed and activities which are eco-friendly are promoted in eco-sensitive areas. The issues of livelihood of local people are taken into consideration while determining the extent of eco-sensitive area.