How does environmental conservation influence the decisions made during the development planning process?
Environmental conservation plays a significant role in the development planning process. The context provided states that the development plan must have regard to matters of common interest between Panchayats and Municipalities, including spatial planning, sharing of water and other physical and natural resources, integrated development of infrastructure, and environmental conservation. This indicates that decisions made during the development planning process are influenced by the need for environmental conservation, ensuring sustainable development that balances economic growth with the protection and preservation of the environment.