India Highlights Importance of Mangrove Conservation Ahead of International Mangrove Day 2026

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India Highlights Importance of Mangrove Conservation Ahead of International Mangrove Day 2026

India Highlights Importance of Mangrove Conservation Ahead of International Mangrove Day 2026

Ganesh Khatiwada 2026-07-17 07:45:49

Kathmandu, July 17 | Ecosphere News
As the world counts down to International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem on 26 July, India has renewed attention to the critical role of mangrove forests in protecting coastlines, conserving biodiversity, and strengthening climate resilience.
According to information released by India's Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the country is home to 4,991.68 square kilometres of mangrove forests, representing approximately 0.6 percent of India's total Forest and Tree Cover, which spans 827,357 square kilometres.
India's mangroves are predominantly found in West Bengal, Gujarat, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, where these unique coastal ecosystems provide habitat for a rich diversity of plant and animal species. Mangroves also serve as natural barriers against storm surges, coastal erosion, and sea-level rise while storing significant amounts of "blue carbon," making them an important ally in combating climate change.
Environmental experts emphasize that healthy mangrove ecosystems support fisheries, sustain coastal livelihoods, improve water quality, and enhance the resilience of coastal communities facing increasingly frequent climate-related disasters.
Observed annually on 26 July, the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem seeks to raise global awareness of the ecological, economic, and social importance of mangroves while encouraging stronger conservation and restoration efforts worldwide.
As countries intensify efforts to address climate change and biodiversity loss, protecting and restoring mangrove ecosystems is increasingly recognized as a cost-effective nature-based solution for safeguarding both people and the environment.
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