Q. Consider the following statements regarding the mangrove ecosystem in India:
1.The total mangrove cover in India decreased in 2023 in comparison to 2019 as per the data from India State of Forest Report (ISFR).
2.West Bengal has the highest mangrove cover in India, followed by Odisha.
3.The MISHTI programme was initiated to restore mangrove forests along the coast of India.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Explanation: Only Statement 3 is correct
Statement 1 is incorrect: In comparison to ISFR 2019 and ISFR 2023, there has been a significant increase of 16.68 km2 in the country’s mangrove coverage.
Statement 2 is incorrect: West Bengal has the highest mangrove coverage, accounting for 42.45%, followed by Gujarat at 23.66% and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands at 12.39%.
Statement 3 is correct: The Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) has been launched on 5th June 2023 to restore and promote mangroves as unique, natural eco-system and for preserving and enhancing the sustainability of the coastal habitats. The objective of MISHTI is to restore mangrove forests by undertaking mangrove reforestation/ afforestation measures along the coast of India.
Source: PIB
