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India's Hidden Grasslands: A New Guide Unveiled
18 Aug
Summary
- A new guide on India's open natural ecosystems was launched at COP17.
- The guide highlights diverse grasslands, savannas, and deserts across India.
- It emphasizes the ecological and socio-economic importance of these habitats.
The first-ever 'Guide to Grasslands and Other Open Natural Ecosystems (ONEs) of India' was unveiled at the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on Monday. This guide illuminates diverse ecosystems across India, including grasslands in central Nicobar and the red dune landscapes of Tamil Nadu's Theri Kaadu.
The Union environment ministry stated the guide showcases the rich diversity, ecological significance, and socio-economic importance of India's grasslands, savannas, deserts, and other open natural areas. These ecosystems provide vital habitats for unique species and sustain pastoral communities. Modern science now reinforces the understanding that healthy grasslands are indispensable for biodiversity, livelihoods, and climate resilience.
The guide identifies critical species like the great Indian bustard and blackbuck, whose conservation depends on active management of their open habitats. It features distinctive landscapes such as the shola-grassland mosaic in the southern Western Ghats and the Thar Desert, recognizing them as important open habitats.
This launch coincided with BRICS meetings on climate change and sustainable development in Delhi, held under India's chairship. These discussions, themed 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability', precede the BRICS environment ministers' meeting. BRICS is evolving into a significant platform for addressing global environmental challenges like pollution and biodiversity loss.
