Environment & Ecology Current Affairs - 2026-06-22

Background: Mangrove ecosystems are vital coastal buffers, protecting against erosion, storm surges, and providing habitats for diverse marine life. India possesses significant mangrove cover, but it faces threats from urbanization, industrial development, and climate change. Past efforts have been localized. Current Context: On June 20, 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the "National Mangrove Restoration Mission" (NMRM). This ambitious five-year program aims to restore and expand mangrove cover across 10 coastal states and Union Territories, focusing on degraded areas and promoting community participation. Impact: The mission is expected to enhance coastal resilience, improve livelihoods for local communities through sustainable ecotourism and fisheries, and significantly contribute to India's carbon sequestration goals. It will also bolster biodiversity conservation along the Indian coastline.

Background: The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a global biodiversity hotspot facing immense pressure from unregulated tourism, deforestation, and infrastructure development. Previous ecotourism initiatives often lacked comprehensive regulatory frameworks, leading to ecological degradation. Current Context: The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, unveiled a new "Sustainable Ecotourism Policy Framework for Western Ghats" on June 21, 2026. This policy emphasizes community-based tourism, strict environmental impact assessments, and revenue sharing for conservation. Impact: This framework aims to promote responsible tourism practices, protect the fragile ecosystems of the Western Ghats, and empower local communities as custodians of their natural heritage. It is expected to create a model for sustainable tourism development in other ecologically sensitive regions.