Programs for Mangrove Forest Restoration
By CCN News | Published: Feb 5, 2024
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Mangrove forests play a crucial role in carbon storage, serving as breeding grounds for marine biodiversity and supporting global fish populations.
The Government has implemented various measures to protect and enhance mangrove forests in coastal States and Union Territories through both promotional and regulatory frameworks.
Promotional efforts are carried out under the 'Conservation and Management of Mangroves and Coral Reefs' Central Sector Scheme, part of the National Coastal Mission Programme under the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change.
Regulatory measures are enforced through the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification (2019) under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, alongside provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and their respective rules amended periodically.
The Union Budget 2023-24 introduced the 'Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI)' to promote and conserve mangroves as unique natural ecosystems with high biological productivity and significant carbon sequestration potential, functioning also as natural shields against environmental impacts.
MISHTI was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change on World Environment Day, June 5, 2023.
Operational guidelines for implementing MISHTI activities have been formulated and shared with states for planning purposes. MISHTI aims to restore and reforest approximately 540 km2 of mangroves across 9 states and 3 union territories over a five-year period starting from 2023-24. States are encouraged to integrate MISHTI activities with existing schemes and programs for comprehensive impact.
Overall, the mangrove cover in the country has increased by 252 km2 between 2015 and 2021.
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