UPSC Environment

Restoring river biodiversity through river ranching

River Ranching is a scientific fisheries management initiative implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to restore depleted fish populations in India’s rivers. The programme involves releasing hatchery-reared fingerlings of native species into natural water bodies to enhance fish production, conserve riverine biodiversity, and strengthen ecological balance. Implemented by the Department of Fisheries with the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) as the nodal agency, it covers major river basins such as the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Mahanadi. The initiative also supports sustainable inland fisheries, improves food security, and enhances the livelihoods of river-dependent communities while contributing to the broader goal of sustainable river ecosystem management.

CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN AGRICULTURE : POLICY AMBITION & GROUND REALITY

India generates nearly 350 million tonnes of agricultural waste annually, creating both an environmental challenge and a major economic opportunity. The circular agriculture approach aims to convert this waste into valuable resources such as bioenergy, organic fertilisers, and bio-based products, with the potential to create a $2 trillion market and millions of jobs by 2050. While the Government has launched multiple initiatives for biomass utilisation, residue management, and infrastructure development, implementation gaps, weak supply chains, limited monitoring, and uneven regional performance remain key concerns. Strengthening outcome-based monitoring, market linkages, and integrated waste management is essential to transform agricultural waste into sustainable rural wealth.

NHAI’s BEE CORRIDOR INITIATIVE

The National Highways Authority of India has launched a first-of-its-kind Bee Corridor initiative to develop pollinator-friendly green stretches along National Highways. The project focuses on planting native, nectar- and pollen-rich species to ensure year-round food and habitat for honeybees and other pollinators. By addressing pollinator decline caused by habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change, the initiative aims to strengthen agricultural productivity, biodiversity, and ecosystem services. It also represents a shift towards nature-based, climate-resilient infrastructure, integrating ecological conservation with highway development and promoting sustainable growth.

Dugongs and Seagrass Ecosystems

The Union Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has asked the Tamil Nadu government to revise the design of the proposed International Dugong Conservation Centre at Manora in Thanjavur district. Although the project aims to support dugong research, rescue, rehabilitation, and awareness, the committee raised concerns because most of the proposed construction falls within ecologically sensitive Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) areas, including a No Development Zone and regions with mangroves and seagrass meadows.

The EAC objected to the heavy use of conventional concrete structures in such a fragile coastal environment and recommended adopting low-impact, eco-friendly construction methods. It also suggested relocating as many facilities as possible outside the restricted zones and studying best practices from similar conservation centres. The project will be reconsidered only after a revised, environmentally sensitive plan is submitted.

INDIA'S CLIMATE CRISIS AND THE PATH FORWARD

A PLOS Climate update reveals India has warmed by 0.9°C since 1901, leading to intensified Arabian Sea cyclones, rising marine heatwaves, and Himalayan ice loss. Urgent action is needed for adaptation, resilient infrastructure, and climate-smart agriculture to safeguard water security and coastal communities.