Model Answer

Significance of Mangroves for Coastal Communities and Biodiversity

Mangroves are vital ecosystems that provide numerous benefits to coastal communities and biodiversity. They serve as a natural barrier against storms and coastal erosion, protecting human settlements and infrastructure from the impacts of severe weather events. This protective function is crucial for reducing the risks associated with coastal hazards, thereby safeguarding lives and properties.

In terms of biodiversity, mangroves are among the most productive ecosystems on the planet. They support nearly 3,000 species of fish and a diverse array of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to these habitats. Mangroves also provide essential breeding and nursery grounds for various marine species, contributing significantly to the health of coastal fisheries. Furthermore, they are home to a wide range of mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates, enhancing overall biodiversity in coastal regions.

Mangroves also play a critical role in the livelihoods of approximately 120 million people living in coastal areas. The resources they provide, such as wood, fish, and other minor produce, are integral to the diets and lifestyles of these communities. Additionally, mangrove ecosystems support eco-tourism, generating income and employment opportunities for local populations.

The MISHTI Scheme

In recognition of the importance of mangroves, the Union Budget 2023-24 introduced the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI). This scheme aims to enhance the regeneration and sustainable utilization of mangrove ecosystems across India. Key features of the MISHTI scheme include:

• Expansion of Mangrove Area: The initiative plans to increase mangrove plantations along coastlines and salt pan lands, targeting an area of 540 square kilometers across 11 states and 2 Union Territories over the next five years.
• Convergence of Schemes: The scheme will leverage existing programs, such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and the Compensatory Afforestation Fund, to fund mangrove restoration efforts.
• Collaboration and Best Practices: MISHTI emphasizes the incorporation of best practices in plantation techniques and management, promoting public-private partnerships for resource mobilization.
• Environmental Focus: This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance environmental conservation and combat climate change, as mangroves are known for their high carbon sequestration potential.

The MISHTI scheme is a timely intervention, addressing the threats faced by mangrove ecosystems due to commercialization and development pressures.

Model Answer

Causes of Growing Human-Wildlife Conflict in India-wildlife conflict (HWC) in India is escalating due to several interrelated factors:

1. Habitat Depletion and Fragmentation: Rapid urbanization, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development have led to significant habitat loss for wildlife. This forces animals to venture into human settlements in search of food and water.
2. Movement of Livestock and Humans: Economic pressures compel marginalized communities to exploit resources within protected areas, increasing encounters with wildlife.
3. Invasive Alien Species: The introduction of non-native species can disrupt local ecosystems, reducing food and water availability for native wildlife, which in turn leads to competition with humans.
4. Climatic Factors: Climate change alters vegetation patterns and affects the foraging behavior of species like lions and leopards, increasing the likelihood of conflict with humans.
5. Increase in Wildlife Populations: Conservation efforts have successfully increased the populations of certain species, which can exceed the carrying capacity of their habitats, leading to “spillover” into human areas.
6. Stochastic Events: Natural disasters such as floods and forest fires can displace wildlife, forcing them into populated areas in search of food and shelter.

Government Measures to Mitigate Human-Wildlife Conflict

The Indian government has implemented several strategies to address HWC:

1. National Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Strategy: This framework aims to tackle the root causes of conflict through a structured approach focusing on drivers, pressures, and responses.
2. Standing Committee of National Board of Wildlife Guidelines: These guidelines promote community involvement, provide crop loss insurance, and establish early warning systems to mitigate conflict.
3. Legislative Framework: Laws such as the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and the National Biodiversity Act of 2002 protect wildlife and their habitats, facilitating the creation of protected areas.
4. State-Level Initiatives: States like Kerala and Uttarakhand have formed committees to address HWC and implement localized solutions.
5. Creation of Wildlife Corridors: States including Kerala and Madhya Pradesh have developed corridors to allow the safe movement of wildlife between habitats, reducing encounters with humans.
6. Funding and International Cooperation: The central government provides financial support for wildlife conservation, and projects like the Indo-German Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Project aim to establish best practices for coexistence.

While completely eradicating human-wildlife conflict is challenging, these integrated approaches can foster coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Model Answer

Definition of Nature-based Solutions (NBS)

Nature-based Solutions (NBS) refer to the sustainable management, protection, and restoration of natural or modified ecosystems to address societal needs while enhancing environmental and economic resilience. NBS include practices such as increasing green cover through forestry, constructing green roofs, and developing rain gardens. These solutions integrate nature into urban planning and disaster risk reduction, aiming to solve environmental, social, and economic challenges.

How NBS Assist in Adapting to Hazards

NBS can play a crucial role in adapting to a range of natural hazards:

1. Coastal Hazards: By protecting and restoring coral reefs, NBS can help safeguard coastal communities from flooding, storm surges, and erosion. Additionally, increasing mangrove density is effective in mitigating the impacts of rising sea levels and coastal erosion.
2. Flooding and Stormwater Management: In urban areas, NBS like green roofs, rain gardens, and constructed wetlands absorb stormwater, reducing flood risks. These solutions also help preserve freshwater ecosystems by managing runoff and reducing pollution.
3. Urban Heat Stress: Expanding green spaces in cities helps mitigate the urban heat island effect, reducing the risk of heat stress and improving overall urban resilience.
4. Climate Change Mitigation: Forests play a critical role in sequestering carbon, thus aiding in climate change mitigation. Preventing deforestation and degradation can reduce carbon emissions, which in turn helps mitigate the impacts of global warming.
5. Soil and Water Management: NBS such as forest management help stabilize soil and reduce water runoff, mitigating risks of landslides, soil erosion, and siltation. Agroforestry improves soil moisture retention, helping to adapt to droughts, crop failures, and livestock losses.
6. Water Treatment: Wetlands, recognized for their ability to filter water, are effective in wastewater treatment and serve as carbon sinks. Additionally, enhancing riparian ecosystems can help protect watersheds and regulate river flow, especially in regions experiencing drought.

Challenges and Opportunities in India

To fully harness the potential of NBS, India needs to increase investment, improve governance, and empower local communities. Regional and international cooperation is also crucial for the effective implementation of these solutions.