Why is News :
- The Government of India has approved an updated plan for the National Mission for Green India (GIM) as part of its strategy to meet climate goals under the Paris Agreement, focusing on afforestation, degraded forest restoration, and carbon sink enhancement.
About the Mission
- Part of: National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
- Objective: To enhance ecosystem services, restore forest cover, and create additional carbon sinks
- Target:
- Restore 1 million hectares of degraded forests
- Bring 12 million hectares under afforestation/agroforestry (2025–2030)
Key Components of GIM
Forest Restoration
- Degraded forests to contribute up to 60% of the carbon sink target (2030)
- Vital for biodiversity, water security, and ecosystem services
Afforestation & Agroforestry
- Open forests, wastelands, and agricultural landscapes targeted
- Agroforestry to improve soil health, biomass productivity, and rural livelihoods
Urban & Linear Green Infrastructure
- Plantation along roads, railways, and urban green spaces
- Supports mitigation of urban heat island effect
Green Corridors
- Connect fragmented habitats and promote ecological resilience
Funding Mechanism
- Total Outlay: ₹12,190 crore (2021–2030)
- ₹5,000 crore – Union Budget
- ₹7,190 crore – CAMPA funds
Collaborative Implementation
- Involvement of state governments, communities, and private sector
- CSR funds encouraged for vulnerable area restoration
Focus on Vulnerable Landscapes
Priority regions:
- Aravallis, Western Ghats, Northwest arid zones, Himalayan region, mangroves, and degraded bamboo forests
- Goals: Combat desertification, build resilience, conserve biodiversity
Related Initiatives
- Amrit Sarovar Mission – rejuvenation of 75,000 water bodies
- Matri Van Project – tree plantation in Aravalli
- ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ – mass afforestation movement
Challenges Addressed
Desertification due to:
- Unsustainable agriculture
- Excessive chemical use
- Food Security Risks
- Ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss
Significance
- Aids in achieving India’s NDCs under the Paris Agreement
- Enhances carbon sequestration capacity
- Promotes community ownership and sustainable livelihoods
- Addresses land degradation neutrality and climate resilience
National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC)
Established: August 2015
Objective:
- To support adaptation measures in States and Union Territories that are vulnerable to climate change impacts.
- Focus on cost of adaptation in sectors such as water and agriculture.
Implementation:
- NABARD is the National Implementing Entity (NIE).
- Responsibilities of NABARD:
- Identify project concepts from State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCC)
- Facilitate project formulation and appraisal
- Fund disbursement and monitoring & evaluation
- Capacity building for stakeholders and governments
NAFCC Outcome Framework:
- Reduce climate change risks in water and agriculture sectors
- Ensure multi-sectoral co-benefits for food and water security
- Promote livelihood security, poverty alleviation, and community awareness
- Build institutional and individual capacity to manage climate-related socio-economic and environmental risks
| UPSC Relevance : GS2: Government Policies & Interventions GS3: Environment | Climate Change | Conservation | Afforestation UPSC Mains Linkage Q. “India’s afforestation strategies must balance carbon sink enhancement with biodiversity protection and community engagement.” Discuss in the light of the National Mission for Green India. |