Bhuj: Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav addressed a workshop on mangrove conservation, restoration and sustainable management in Bhuj, Kachchh, on September 13.
The workshop reviewed Gujarat’s progress under the MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes) programme, with discussions focusing on scientific restoration, technology-enabled monitoring, biodiversity conservation and community participation.
Bhuj: Mangrove Conservation Gets Science and Community Focus
Yadav stressed that mangroves should be conserved as living ecosystems because of their role in:
- Protecting coastlines and strengthening climate resilience
- Supporting coastal biodiversity and fisheries
- Sustaining livelihoods of local communities
- Maintaining healthy coastal ecosystems
Gujarat Nears MISHTI Restoration Target
According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Gujarat has covered 27,652 hectares for mangrove restoration against its 29,250-hectare target for 2023–27.
A significant portion of the work has been undertaken in the Kori Creek region, where 12,450 hectares have been covered despite challenging ecological conditions.
The restoration programme in Kachchh includes site-specific approaches suited to local conditions, along with measures aimed at biodiversity enhancement, seaweed cultivation and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Mangrove GIS Portal Launched
The Minister also launched the Mangrove GIS (MGIS) Portal, designed to support science-based decision-making and monitoring of mangrove habitats across Gujarat.
Two publications were released during the workshop:
- Coffee Table Book on Kachchh Mangroves
- Mangroves Atlas of Gujarat
The new portal and publications are intended to strengthen information and monitoring systems for mangrove conservation across the state.
Guneri Inland Mangroves Receive Recognition
Yadav felicitated the Guneri Inland Mangrove Village Biodiversity Management Committee for its community-led conservation efforts.
The Guneri mangroves are notable for being an inland mangrove ecosystem located away from the coast. The site was declared Gujarat’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site in January 2025.
The workshop was attended by senior officials from the Union Environment Ministry and Gujarat Forest Department, along with scientists, conservationists and local community representatives involved in mangrove restoration and coastal livelihood initiatives.
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