The Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) is a group established by the Indian government in 2010 to assess and protect the ecological integrity of the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India. The panel consists of experts in ecology, biodiversity, and environmental science, tasked with evaluating the environmental impact of development projects in the region. The WGEEP's primary goal is to recommend measures for sustainable development while preserving the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats. This area is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to numerous endemic species, making its conservation crucial for ecological balance and local communities.