India presented its approach to rangeland restoration at the 17th Conference of Parties (CoP17) of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav emphasized that successful restoration begins with pastoralists as custodians rather than merely beneficiaries, advocating for an approach that combines traditional knowledge with modern science.
India's rangelands span diverse landscapes including Himalayan pastures, Central Indian savannas, arid Thar and Kachchh regions, and Southern sholas, which sustain the country's vast livestock and human population. The ministry utilizes satellite-based Desertification and Land Degradation Atlases for scientific mapping and restoration planning. Recognition of grazing rights and community forest resource rights strengthens local communities' role in sustainable management.
India highlighted approximately 25,000 community-protected sacred groves (known as Orans in Rajasthan) covering about 0.6 million hectares across the country, many protected under statutory provisions. These groves serve dual purposes of community stewardship and securing pastoral land rights while conserving critical habitats including that of the Great Indian Bustard.
The country maintains approximately 10 million hectares of permanent pastures and grazing lands where deep-rooted grasses contribute to soil carbon storage, enhance water infiltration, and support groundwater recharge. India's restoration efforts include reintroduction of the Cheetah and proposed expansion into grasslands such as Banni in Gujarat.
India's integrated approach combines landscape management, watershed development, sustainable grazing, fodder development, and livelihood support with community participation at its core. The minister called for enhanced access to finance, technology, and knowledge for developing countries advancing toward Land Degradation Neutrality, welcoming dedicated financing for rangeland restoration and offering to share India's experience through South-South cooperation.