More

    In Rajya Sabha: Strengthening Mangrove Conservation Through MISHTI

    EnvironmentBio-diversityIn Rajya Sabha: Strengthening Mangrove Conservation Through MISHTI
    - Advertisment -

    In Rajya Sabha: Strengthening Mangrove Conservation Through MISHTI

    The minister emphasised that the implementation of these regulatory and promotional measures has yielded positive results in enhancing mangrove coverage and resilience.

    The Government of India has reaffirmed its commitment to mangrove conservation through a combination of regulatory and promotional measures. In a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, outlined the ongoing efforts to protect and expand mangrove forests across coastal States and Union Territories.

    Among the regulatory measures, the government enforces the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification (2019) under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, as well as other relevant legislation, including the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. These legal provisions are aimed at safeguarding the fragile coastal ecosystem against degradation.

    To further boost mangrove conservation, the government launched the “Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes” (MISHTI) on June 5, 2023. This initiative, in collaboration with coastal States and Union Territories, focuses on restoring and afforesting mangroves across approximately 540 km². The program is being implemented through convergence with the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), which is providing financial support for the initiative.

    Regulatory and Promotional Measures

    For the financial year 2024-2025, the government has released ₹17.96 crore from CAMPA funds to Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal, and the Union Territory of Puducherry for the restoration of degraded mangrove areas. This funding is expected to support large-scale plantation and conservation efforts in these regions.

    - Advertisement -

    According to the India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR-2023), India’s total mangrove cover stands at 4,991.68 km², accounting for 0.15 per cent of the country’s total geographical area. West Bengal has the highest share of mangrove forests at 42.45 per cent, followed by Gujarat (23.66 per cent) and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands (12.39 per cent). Notably, Gujarat has witnessed a significant increase of 253.06 km² in mangrove cover between 2001 and 2023, attributed to effective conservation policies, large-scale plantation initiatives, and successful Public-Private Partnership models involving local communities.

    The minister emphasised that the implementation of these regulatory and promotional measures has yielded positive results in enhancing mangrove coverage and resilience. The government remains committed to strengthening coastal ecosystems and ensuring long-term environmental sustainability through targeted conservation strategies.

    - Advertisement -

    LEAVE A REPLY

    Please enter your comment!
    Please enter your name here

    Latest news

    War, huh, Yeah, What is it Good For?

    One should, nevertheless, keep in mind that war is horrific. It is most often not the answer. When it is, it is always the very last resort after all other means to resolve adverse situations have been well and truly exhausted.

    World Bank Unveils $1 Billion Package to Spur Jobs and Private Sector Growth in Sri Lanka

    Tourism, one of Sri Lanka’s key economic drivers, is set to receive $200 million. These funds will be used to protect and enhance natural and cultural heritage sites, create employment opportunities, and ensure local communities benefit directly from tourism revenues.

    UN Secretary-General Urges Military restraint from India, Pakistan

    He offered his good offices to both governments to help defuse tensions and promote diplomacy, stressing that “a military solution is no solution.”

    India Showcases SVAMITVA at World Bank Land Conference

    India’s interventions across these sessions aim to serve as a call to action for other nations striving to achieve SDG Target 1.4.2 which aims to ensure legal ownership and control over land for all, especially vulnerable communities.
    - Advertisement -

    WHO Warns of Deepening Health Crisis in Afghanistan as Aid Dwindles

    The decline in support follows the suspension of US assistance, which previously accounted for nearly half of the international funding directed toward Afghanistan’s healthcare.

    Clean Ganga Mission Approves Key Projects for Ganga Rejuvenation via Ecosystem Testoration

    Conservation of critical wetlands and promoting the reuse of treated wastewater through city specific reuse plans and were deliberated in the meeting.

    Must read

    War, huh, Yeah, What is it Good For?

    One should, nevertheless, keep in mind that war is horrific. It is most often not the answer. When it is, it is always the very last resort after all other means to resolve adverse situations have been well and truly exhausted.

    World Bank Unveils $1 Billion Package to Spur Jobs and Private Sector Growth in Sri Lanka

    Tourism, one of Sri Lanka’s key economic drivers, is set to receive $200 million. These funds will be used to protect and enhance natural and cultural heritage sites, create employment opportunities, and ensure local communities benefit directly from tourism revenues.
    - Advertisement -

    More from the sectionRELATED
    Recommended to you