MISHTI Scheme: Mangrove Restoration and Coastal Protection

Introduction

MISHTI stands for Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes. Announced in the Union Budget 2023–24, it aims to promote mangrove plantation and restoration along India's coastline and on salt-pan lands, where suitable.

The initiative combines ecological restoration with livelihood-related benefits for coastal communities.

Objectives

  • Restore and expand suitable mangrove habitats.

  • Strengthen coastal resilience.

  • Protect biodiversity and nursery habitats for marine species.

  • Improve natural protection against coastal hazards.

  • Generate livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.

  • Enhance carbon storage through mangrove ecosystems.

What are mangroves?

Mangroves are salt-tolerant trees and shrubs that grow in intertidal coastal environments, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.

They are adapted to challenging conditions such as saline water, waterlogged soils, and low-oxygen sediments.

Ecological importance

1. Coastal protection

Mangroves can reduce wave energy and help stabilise coastlines.

2. Biodiversity

They provide habitats and nursery grounds for fish, crustaceans, birds, and other organisms.

3. Carbon sequestration

Mangrove ecosystems store carbon in vegetation and especially in waterlogged soils. This carbon storage is often discussed under the term blue carbon.

4. Livelihoods

Healthy mangrove ecosystems can support fisheries and other coastal livelihood activities.

Implementation

MISHTI involves collaboration among relevant government agencies, states, local communities, and other stakeholders. Site selection and restoration approaches must account for tidal conditions, salinity, hydrology, and the suitability of local species.

UPSC Prelims Key Pointers

  • Full form: Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes.

  • Announced in the Union Budget 2023–24.

  • Focuses on mangrove restoration and plantation.

  • Relevant to coastal resilience, biodiversity, livelihoods, and blue carbon.

  • Mangroves are salt-tolerant plants adapted to intertidal environments.

  • Planting mangroves in unsuitable habitats can damage existing ecosystems; restoration should be based on ecological suitability.

  • MISHTI is distinct from the Amrit Dharohar initiative, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of Ramsar sites.