The MISHTI Scheme, which stands for Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes, was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) on World Environment Day (5th June 2023). The scheme aims to protect and restore mangrove ecosystems in India. Mangroves are unique ecosystems found in coastal regions and are known for their high capacity to store carbon, support marine biodiversity, and provide breeding grounds for many fish species.
What is the MISHTI Scheme?
The MISHTI Scheme is a Central Government initiative focused on mangrove conservation and restoration. The scheme is part of India’s broader effort to protect its coastal ecosystems while addressing climate change. The government has recognized mangroves for their important role in carbon sequestration, making them a key element in combating global warming. Mangroves also work as natural bio-shields against storms, floods, and coastal erosion.
Objective of the MISHTI Scheme
The primary objectives of the MISHTI Scheme are:
- Restoration and conservation of mangrove ecosystems: The scheme aims to restore around 540 square kilometers of mangrove areas across India.
- Carbon Sequestration: Mangroves have a significant ability to store carbon, reducing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
- Support to Coastal Communities: By promoting mangroves, the scheme aims to improve the livelihoods of coastal communities who depend on these ecosystems for fishing and other resources.
- Biodiversity Protection: Mangroves are home to many species of fish, birds, and other wildlife, playing a vital role in supporting biodiversity.
Benefits of the MISHTI Scheme
The MISHTI Scheme offers numerous benefits to the environment and communities, including:
- Increased Carbon Storage: Mangroves have a unique ability to store large amounts of carbon, which helps reduce global warming.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Mangrove ecosystems support a wide variety of plant and animal life, making them important for preserving biodiversity.
- Flood and Erosion Protection: Mangroves serve as natural barriers against storms and flooding, protecting coastal areas from erosion and extreme weather events.
- Support for Fishermen: Mangroves provide breeding grounds for fish, making them essential for maintaining healthy fish populations, which supports the livelihoods of many coastal fishermen.
- Livelihood Support: By conserving mangroves, the scheme helps sustain the economic activities of coastal communities, creating more jobs and improving income opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria for the MISHTI Scheme
To participate in the MISHTI Scheme, certain eligibility criteria must be met. The scheme primarily focuses on:
- Coastal States and Union Territories: The scheme is aimed at the restoration of mangrove forests in nine states and three Union Territories across India. These include coastal regions where mangroves naturally occur.
- Convergence with Other Schemes: States are encouraged to take up mangrove conservation activities in collaboration with other existing government programs. This helps maximize resources and ensure effective implementation.
Documents Required for MISHTI Scheme
To apply for the MISHTI Scheme, individuals or organizations may need to provide the following documents, depending on their involvement:
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar card or voter ID to establish the identity of the applicant.
- Address Proof: Documents like utility bills or ration cards to confirm residency in eligible areas.
- Project Proposal (if applicable): For organizations or institutions proposing mangrove restoration projects, a detailed project proposal outlining the scope of work may be required.
- Bank Account Details: For direct benefit transfers or funding disbursement, bank account information is needed.
mishti scheme states List
Coastal areas and salt pan lands in the States of
- Gujarat
- Maharashtra
- Goa
- Karnataka
- Kerala
- Tamil Nadu and
- West Bengal
MISHTI Online Application Process
The government has made efforts to simplify the application process for the MISHTI Scheme by encouraging online submissions. The steps for applying online are as follows:
- Visit the Official Website: The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change will likely have a dedicated section for the MISHTI Scheme on its official website.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure that the coastal area or project falls within the eligible states or union territories.
- Prepare Necessary Documents: Gather all the required documents such as identity proof, address proof, and any project-related paperwork.
- Fill Out the Application Form: The online application form for the MISHTI Scheme will require basic details like the applicant’s name, address, and other relevant information.
- Submit the Application: After filling in all the required details and uploading the necessary documents, submit the application online.
- Receive Acknowledgment: Once submitted, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt, which can be used to track the status of your application.
Conservation and Management of Mangroves Under National Coastal Mission Programme
The MISHTI Scheme is part of a larger Central Sector Scheme for the Conservation and Management of Mangroves and Coral Reefs, under the National Coastal Mission Programme. This mission is run by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, and it seeks to promote both mangrove and coral reef ecosystems in India’s coastal regions. Mangroves and coral reefs are vital to the country’s marine biodiversity and play a crucial role in protecting coastal communities from natural disasters.
Regulatory Framework Supporting MISHTI Scheme
In addition to promotional measures, the government has also put in place several regulatory measures to ensure the protection of mangrove ecosystems:
- Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification (2019): This notification under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 sets clear guidelines on coastal area development, ensuring that mangroves are protected.
- Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972: Mangroves are considered protected areas under this act, safeguarding the ecosystem from illegal activities.
- Indian Forest Act, 1927: The act regulates the use of forest resources, ensuring that mangroves are not exploited unsustainably.
- Biological Diversity Act, 2002: This act ensures that mangrove ecosystems are conserved, recognizing their value in supporting biodiversity.
MISHTI Scheme and Climate Change
The MISHTI Scheme plays a significant role in India’s fight against climate change. Mangroves are considered carbon sinks, meaning they absorb more carbon than they release. This makes them a crucial tool for carbon sequestration. By restoring and conserving mangroves, India can reduce its carbon footprint, contributing to the global effort to combat climate change.
MISHTI Scheme’s Future Plans
The MISHTI Scheme is set to run for a five-year period, starting from 2023-2024, with a target of covering 540 square kilometers of mangrove restoration across nine states and three Union Territories. The government is focusing on long-term sustainability and has encouraged states to use existing government programs to support the scheme. This convergence of resources will help ensure that the initiative is both cost-effective and impactful.
Progress of Mangrove Conservation in India
The mangrove cover in India has already shown positive signs of improvement. Between 2015 and 2021, India’s mangrove cover increased by 252 square kilometers, highlighting the government’s efforts in this area. With the launch of the MISHTI Scheme, it is expected that this trend will continue, further boosting India’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Conclusion
The MISHTI Scheme represents a forward-thinking initiative by the Indian government to not only conserve mangroves but also to support coastal communities and biodiversity. With its focus on restoring 540 square kilometers of mangrove ecosystems over five years, the scheme aims to strengthen India’s efforts against climate change while boosting the livelihoods of those living in coastal areas. Through the combination of promotional measures, regulatory frameworks, and state cooperation, the MISHTI Scheme has the potential to make a lasting impact on India’s environment and economy.
Source
Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI)