World Soil Day: Grassland soils, not trees, anchor India’s climate resilience
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biodiversity & conservation· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
On World Soil Day, research highlighted that India's semi-arid grasslands and savannas are crucial for carbon sequestration and soil health, challenging their previous classification as 'wastelands'.
Background
The National Wastelands Development Board was established in 1985 to classify these areas. The Maharashtra State forest department is using the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) to restore degraded grasslands and increase soil organic carbon.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyNational Wastelands Development Board: Established in 1985 to classify wasteland areas in India
- SchemeCAMPA: Used by Maharashtra State forest department for grassland restoration and increasing soil organic carbon
- FactGrasslands and savannas are identified as key ecosystems for carbon sequestration and biodiversity support
For Mains
Q. Discuss the ecological significance of grasslands in India's climate resilience strategy and the necessity of shifting from 'wasteland' classification to restoration-centric policies.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Ecological valuation: Transitioning from 'wasteland' labels to recognizing carbon sequestration potential of semi-arid ecosystems
- Community-led restoration: Leveraging local participation in Gujarat's Banni Grassland to combat invasive species
- Institutional framework: Utilizing CAMPA funds for soil organic carbon enhancement in degraded grassland habitats
Keywords: Carbon sequestration · Soil organic carbon · Climate resilience · Biodiversity conservation · Grassland restoration
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