Shri Bhupender Yadav delivers India’s Formal Statement at CoP16
At the 16th Conference of the Parties (CoP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, delivered a significant statement on India’s commitment to combat land degradation and enhance global drought resilience. His address highlighted India’s comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability, emphasizing the need for community involvement and international collaboration. This article delves into the key points from his speech, showcasing India’s initiatives and vision for a sustainable future.
India’s Comprehensive Approach to Land Degradation
In his address, Minister Yadav reiterated India’s commitment to addressing land degradation. He emphasized that this commitment aligns seamlessly with the objectives of CoP16. The Minister pointed out that India has adopted a holistic approach to tackle issues related to land degradation, drought resilience, ecosystem restoration, and biodiversity enhancement. He stated, “In India, the earth is traditionally revered as Mother Earth.” This cultural ethos underpins the country’s environmental initiatives.
One of the notable campaigns launched by the Indian government is the “Plant for Mother” initiative. This mass-based campaign aims to plant over one billion saplings in a single year. The Minister urged all countries and their citizens to participate in this initiative, which he described as a tribute to Mother Earth. Such efforts not only address land degradation but also contribute to the fight against climate change. By fostering a sense of responsibility towards the environment, India aims to inspire global action against land degradation.
The Importance of Ecosystem Restoration and Biodiversity
Minister Yadav emphasized that land is not solely for human use; it is shared with other life forms that also have rights to the earth’s resources. This principle is deeply rooted in India’s cultural ethos. To reinforce this commitment, India has taken the lead in launching the International Big Cat Alliance, a coalition of countries dedicated to the conservation of big cats and their habitats.
Furthermore, India has reaffirmed its commitment to the Bonn Challenge, which aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. The Minister reported that over 22.5 million hectares have already been restored, showcasing India’s proactive stance on ecosystem restoration. This commitment not only enhances biodiversity but also strengthens the resilience of ecosystems against climate change.
Community Involvement and Sustainable Development
Shri Yadav highlighted the critical role of community involvement in achieving sustainable development. He stated that successful land restoration and drought resilience require a “Whole of Government” and “Whole of Society” approach. The Green India Mission exemplifies this philosophy, as it encourages community participation in restoring degraded land.
India advocates for environmentally friendly lifestyles and the use of traditional knowledge in various aspects of life. The Minister noted that healthy land is essential for regional stability. By addressing the drivers of forced migration, India aims to create stable communities and progressive economies. This holistic approach not only benefits the environment but also enhances the quality of life for citizens.
Knowledge Sharing and Collaborative Efforts
In his concluding remarks, Minister Yadav stressed the importance of knowledge sharing and capacity building through partnerships. He called for collaboration among governments, agencies, industries, and communities to enhance drought preparedness and resilience. This collaborative spirit is vital for strengthening drought early warning systems and promoting drought-resilient agriculture.
One of the key initiatives mentioned was the “Amrit Sarovar” program, which focuses on developing and rejuvenating water retention structures across the country. This initiative aims to conserve water resources and improve water availability for agriculture and other uses. The Minister expressed India’s readiness to share its experiences and best practices with other nations.
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