MISHTI Scheme for Mangrove Conservation and Livelihoods

MISHTI Scheme is a Central government scheme aimed at promoting the conservation and restoration of mangrove habitats along the shorelines of India. The scheme also aims to provide tangible economic benefits to local communities through sustainable use of these ecosystems.

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI)
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• Scheme Launch Year: 2023 (In Union Budget of FY 2023-24)
• Tenure: 5 years (from Financial Year 2023-24)
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Government of India
• Scheme Type: National Scheme
• Covered States: The MISHTI scheme is being implemented across 11 states and 2 Union Territories in India. The states covered under this initiative include West Bengal, Gujarat, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana.

Aim of the Scheme

Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes aims to facilitate mangrove plantations along the coastline and on salt pan lands, promoting the conservation and restoration of these valuable ecosystems. The MISHTI scheme provides financial and technical support to individuals, communities, NGOs and government agencies interested in mangrove plantations and associated livelihood activities.

MISHTI Scheme is implemented through a collaborative approach, utilizing the convergence of multiple sources of funding and resources. It leverages the strengths and provisions of different government schemes and initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) Fund and other relevant sources.

MISHTI Scheme Features 

MISHTI scheme provides financial and technical assistance to individuals and communities for mangrove conservation, restoration and sustainable use. Some of the key features of the scheme are as follows:

1. Promotes development of 540 sq.KM mangroves across 11 states and 2 union territories: MISHTI focuses on the targeted development of approximately 540 square kilometers of mangrove habitats. These areas are spread across 11 states and 2 union territories in India, acknowledging the widespread presence and ecological significance of mangroves in these regions. By directing efforts towards specific locations, the scheme aims to maximize the impact of mangrove conservation and restoration activities.
2. Resources for implementation of MISHTI are through the convergence of other on-going schemes/programmes of Central and State Governments: MISHTI utilizes the concept of convergence, which involves pooling resources from various existing schemes and programs implemented by both the Central and State Governments. By harnessing the strengths and funding provisions of these schemes, MISHTI ensures a more efficient and coordinated approach to implementing its objectives. This convergence allows for better utilization of available resources and enhances the overall effectiveness and reach of the scheme.

The objectives of MISHTI scheme include promoting the sharing of best practices related to various aspects of mangrove conservation and plantation. These objectives focus on:

1. Plantation Techniques: Facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise on effective and innovative methods of mangrove plantation. This includes sharing information on suitable species selection, site preparation, planting techniques and post-plantation care to ensure the successful establishment and growth of mangroves. 
2. Conservation Measures: Encouraging the dissemination of best practices in mangrove conservation. This involves sharing information on strategies to protect existing mangrove habitats, mitigate threats such as deforestation and pollution and promote sustainable management practices that ensure the long-term viability and health of mangrove ecosystems. 
3. Management Practices: Promoting the exchange of experiences and lessons learned in the management of mangrove forests. This includes sharing insights on sustainable harvesting practices, monitoring and assessment methods, adaptive management strategies, and community-based approaches to foster the active involvement of local stakeholders in mangrove conservation and management. 
4. Resources Mobilization through Public-Private Partnerships: Emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to mobilize resources for mangrove conservation and plantation efforts. This involves sharing successful models of public-private partnerships, highlighting how different stakeholders can contribute financially, technologically, and through expertise to support the objectives of MISHTI.

Benefits of MISHTI Scheme

Some of the key benefits of the MISHTI scheme are;

• Promotes conservation and restoration of mangrove habitats, which are critical for coastal ecosystem health and biodiversity
• Provides economic benefits to local communities through sustainable use of mangroves and associated ecosystems
• Supports livelihoods of coastal communities through a range of income-generating activities
• Enhances resilience of coastal communities to climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and storm surges

Drawback of the MISHTI Scheme

One potential drawback of MISHTI is that it may not be useful for farmers who do not have access to coastal areas with mangroves.

Conclusion

Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI scheme) sustainably combines conservation and livelihoods. The scheme has the potential to make a significant impact in the coastal areas of India where mangroves are present.

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