India Calls for Community-Led Restoration of Pastures and Protection of Pastoralists in Mongolia
At the UNCCD COP17 held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, India emphasized the necessity of community participation for the restoration of pastures. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav called for treating pastoralists not just as beneficiaries but as custodians. Sharing its experiences, India stated that the combination of scientific planning and traditional knowledge is highly effective in preventing land degradation and conserving biodiversity.
At the 17th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), India highlighted the importance of pastures. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav stated that pastoral communities play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and water cycles. He emphasized that the restoration process can only be successful when local communities are viewed as custodians.
Highlighting the diversity of its pastures, India noted that these areas, stretching from the Himalayas to the Thar Desert, support a large population. The Minister clarified that satellite-based mapping and the recognition of community rights make pasture management more sustainable.
Citing the example of 'Orans' in Rajasthan, he praised the traditional systems of community conservation. India has approximately 25,000 such sacred groves spread over 0.6 million hectares. These areas not only protect the rights of pastoralists but also provide safe habitats for endangered species like the Great Indian Bustard.
Shedding light on government efforts, he mentioned that plans for the restoration of grasslands like Banni and the reintroduction of cheetahs are strengthening the ecosystem. Deep-rooted grasses assist in carbon sequestration in the soil and groundwater recharge, which is vital for India's 10 million hectares of pastures.
The Minister stated that India's approach integrates landscape management, watershed development, and sustainable grazing. He demanded better access to funding and technology for developing nations.
Concluding his address, he said that India is fully prepared to share its successful experiences with other countries through 'South-South cooperation.' He welcomed specific funding mechanisms for the restoration of pastures.