India Advocates for Sustainable Restoration of Rangelands
India has underscored the vital significance of rangelands in supporting pastoralist communities, conserving biodiversity, and regulating essential water and carbon cycles. In a compelling address at the Ministerial Dialogue on “Restoration of Rangelands and the Well-being of Pastoralist Communities” held during the 17th Conference of Parties (CoP17) of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, emphasized the nation’s commitment to science-driven restoration strategies, secure land tenure, and community involvement.
Shri Yadav remarked, “Successful restoration begins with pastoralists as custodians, not merely beneficiaries.” He stressed that integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods can yield restoration practices that are environmentally sound, economically beneficial, and socially inclusive. He illustrated India’s diverse rangelands, encompassing regions from the Himalayan pastures and Central Indian savannas to the arid zones of Thar, Kachchh, and the lush Southern sholas—ecologically vital areas that support a large livestock population and human communities.
The Minister pointed out the role of Satellite-based Desertification and Land Degradation Atlases in scientifically mapping grasslands and planning restoration initiatives. Acknowledging grazing rights and community forest resource rights enhances the power of local communities in managing these resources sustainably.
Community-Ecological Harmony
In his discourse, Shri Yadav highlighted India’s rich tradition of community conservation, citing Orans in Rajasthan as prime examples. These sacred groves are cherished and preserved by local populations due to their cultural and ecological importance. Approximately 25,000 community-protected groves, spanning around 0.6 million hectares nationwide, showcase active community stewardship while safeguarding pastoral land rights and critical wildlife habitats, including those of the endangered Great Indian Bustard. Many of these areas benefit from statutory protection, he noted.
The Minister shared India’s initiatives in revitalizing open forests and grassland ecosystems, which notably include the reintroduction of the Cheetah and the expansion of initiatives into grasslands like Banni in Gujarat. He explained that deep-rooted grasses are crucial for enhancing soil carbon storage, improving water infiltration, and promoting groundwater recharge across approximately 10 million hectares of permanent pastures and grazing lands in the country.
A Call for Global Cooperation
Shri Yadav concluded his address by asserting that India’s comprehensive approach integrates landscape management, watershed development, sustainable grazing practices, fodder development, and support for local livelihoods, with community involvement at the forefront. As developing nations progress towards achieving Land Degradation Neutrality, he urged for improved access to finance, technology, and knowledge. He stated, “India welcomes dedicated, accessible financing for rangeland restoration, and stands ready to share its experiences and solutions through South-South cooperation.”
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