India Highlights Importance of Healthy Land for Regional Stability at UN Desertification Summit

India has emphasised the importance of healthy land for regional stability and invited nations to join Prime Minister Narendra Modi's plantation initiative, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. This campaign aims to combat land degradation and climate change. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted these points at the 16th UN Conference on Desertification in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Yadav stated that India is committed to promoting eco-friendly lifestyles and integrating traditional knowledge into daily practices. He noted that healthy land contributes to stable communities and robust economies by mitigating factors that drive migration. India has adopted a comprehensive strategy to tackle land degradation, enhance drought resilience, restore ecosystems, and promote biodiversity.

Plantation Campaign and Community Involvement

Prime Minister Modi launched the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign on World Environment Day, June 5. This initiative encourages people to plant trees as a tribute to their mothers. The goal is to plant 140 crore trees by March 2025 to combat land degradation and restore degraded areas. Yadav urged global participation in this initiative as a tribute to Mother Earth.

Yadav stressed the need for active community involvement in restoring land and building drought resilience. The Green India Mission embodies a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, with community participation at its core. Partnerships and knowledge sharing are crucial for improving drought preparedness and resilience.

Technological Innovations and Financial Support

During a ministerial dialogue on migration and security impacts due to land degradation and drought, Yadav highlighted the role of new technologies. Space technology, GIS, drones, AI for soil and water management, and soil bioengineering can aid in combating land degradation and reducing migration. These technologies should be shared with developing countries facing severe challenges.

Yadav also discussed the importance of financial support during a dialogue on finance. Adequate financing is essential for achieving the objectives of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). The World Drought Atlas, released recently, could guide increased mobilisation of financial resources.

Progress in Land Restoration

India has made significant progress in restoring degraded land. Yadav shared that India has already restored 22.5 million hectares against a target of 26 million hectares by 2030. Government, industry, and communities must collaborate to strengthen early warning systems, drought-resilient farming, and sustainable livelihoods.

The minister reiterated India's commitment to addressing land degradation through innovative solutions and international cooperation. By adopting eco-friendly practices and leveraging technology, India aims to create sustainable environments that support both human communities and biodiversity.