The effective management of land and water resources plays a central role in alleviating poverty, reducing disasters, improving food security, and ensuring environmental sustainability. It is widely recognized that a mismanagement of these resources is at the core of many human miseries ranging from drought and famine to displacement, economic instability, and conflict. A systematic…
Introduction Mangroves are one of the most vital ecosystems in the tropical and subtropical coastal zones. They consist of salt-tolerant plant species such as Rhizophora, Avicennia, Sonneratia, and Bruguiera, thriving in intertidal regions where rivers meet the sea. Despite covering less than 1% of tropical forests globally, mangroves provide disproportionate ecological, economic, and social benefits….
Introduction Coral reefs, often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” are among the most biologically diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. They provide shelter, food, and breeding grounds for nearly one-quarter of all marine species, despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. Beyond biodiversity, coral ecosystems contribute to human societies by…
Introduction Climate change has emerged as a significant threat to global food security, ecosystem balance, and rural livelihoods, particularly in countries like India where agriculture remains the mainstay of millions. Erratic rainfall patterns, increasing temperatures, soil degradation, and the loss of biodiversity are intensifying farming challenges. In this context, agroforestry has gained prominence as a…
Introduction to Watersheds A watershed is a land area that drains or “sheds” water into a common body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean. It is defined by the boundaries of the highest points of land, which direct rainfall and other forms of precipitation into streams, rivers, or other water sources within…
Urbanization, the process by which cities and towns expand as human populations increase, is one of the most transformative forces shaping the modern world. As human settlements grow, they encroach upon natural landscapes, leading to the destruction or alteration of wildlife habitats. This widespread urban sprawl has profound consequences for biodiversity, ecosystem services, and the…
The Tarai region of Uttar Pradesh, located in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a unique and ecologically significant area that harbors a diverse array of wildlife and plant species. This region plays a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity and ecological balance of the state, and the wildlife sanctuaries in the Tarai region are…