
The plantation drive, held as part of the ongoing “Hariyali Mahotsav,” witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 100 individuals, including students
CHENNAI,14 JULY(City Times): In a significant step towards environmental conservation, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India organized a mangrove plantation program in Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu. Led by the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri. Bhupender Yadav, the event aimed to promote the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) scheme. The plantation drive, held as part of the ongoing “Hariyali Mahotsav,” witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 100 individuals, including students.
Empowering Coastal Communities through Mangrove Conservation:
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasized the importance of active participation in the plantation drive, particularly for mangroves, to empower the local communities residing in coastal areas. During the event, the Minister interacted with students, frontline workers, and local communities, stressing the need for conservation efforts. He also instructed officials to use the local language for the names of mangrove species, aiming to foster a sense of ownership and involvement among the local population.
Promoting Awareness and Knowledge:
As part of the program, Union Minister Yadav released a book titled “Biodiversity and Importance of Mangrove Ecosystem.” Prepared by the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai, the publication aims to enhance understanding and appreciation of mangrove ecosystems. By disseminating knowledge about the biodiversity and ecological significance of mangroves, the book will contribute to raising awareness and fostering a culture of conservation.
The MISHTI Program:
A Vision for Coastal States: The MISHTI program, recently launched by the Government of India, seeks to undertake mangrove reforestation and afforestation along the coastal districts of the country. Drawing on best practices from India and other nations like Indonesia, the program aims to develop ecotourism initiatives and generate sustainable livelihoods in coastal states. With an area of approximately 5000 sq km already under mangroves, the MISHTI program intends to expand the coverage by an additional 540 sq km across nine states and four union territories.
Implementation and Collaboration:
The MISHTI program is planned for a five-year implementation period from 2023 to 2028. It will be implemented by converging funds from the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), and other sources. In Tamil Nadu, a total area of approximately 39 sq km has been earmarked for mangrove reforestation and afforestation under this program. The efforts of various stakeholders, including government officials, local communities, and organizations like the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, are pivotal in achieving the goals of the MISHTI program.
Government aims to protect coastal ecosystems
The mangrove plantation drive led by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav in Tamil Nadu’s Chengalpattu District reflects India’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development. By focusing on mangrove conservation, the government aims to protect coastal ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and uplift local communities. Through programs like MISHTI, India is harnessing the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing to create a greener and more resilient future. The efforts of all participants, including government officials, students, and local communities, will play a crucial role in the success of these initiatives.