The National Workshop on Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) began in Vijayawada on January 8. The two-day event is taking place at Lemon Tree Premier in Andhra Pradesh.
The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department organized the workshop along with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board, and National CAMPA. The event brought together senior officials, scientists, and experts from coastal States and Union Territories.
Focus on Mangrove Protection and Livelihoods
The main aim of the workshop is to review the progress of the MISHTI programme. In addition, officials are sharing best practices and planning future strategies. The discussions focus on mangrove restoration, shoreline safety, climate resilience, and income generation for coastal communities.
The programme began with a traditional lamp lighting and invocation. After that, Dr. P. V. Chalapathi Rao, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force of Andhra Pradesh, delivered the welcome address.
National Importance of Mangroves Highlighted
Later, Sri Anand Mohan, Chief Executive Officer of National CAMPA, addressed the gathering. He explained the national importance of mangroves. He said mangroves protect coastlines, store carbon, and support sustainable livelihoods.
Meanwhile, senior officers from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, and Puducherry made detailed presentations. They shared updates on mangrove coverage, MISHTI progress, and future plans.
Technical Sessions and Expert Insights
The workshop includes two technical sessions. The first session focuses on mangrove restoration and shoreline management. The second session discusses ecosystem services, community-led conservation, climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and carbon credit opportunities.
Experts from institutions such as MSSRF, NCSCM, NCCR, Annamalai University, and CIFOR-ICRAF shared their research and field experiences. Their insights added strong value to the discussions.
Andhra Pradesh Leads Coastal Conservation Efforts
The first day of the workshop will conclude with key discussions and the release of publications. Deputy Chief Minister for Environment, Forest, Science and Technology, Sri Konidala Pawan Kalyan, will address the participants as the chief guest.
Overall, the workshop marks a major step in strengthening national cooperation under MISHTI. It also highlights Andhra Pradesh’s leadership in mangrove conservation and coastal ecosystem restoration.
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