Understanding MISHTI: Mangrove Restoration Initiative

1. What is MISHTI?

MISHTI stands for Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes. It is a central government scheme launched to restore and expand mangrove forests along India’s coastline, aiming at climate protection, ecological balance, and livelihood generation.

2. When and where was MISHTI launched?

MISHTI was announced in the Union Budget 2023 and formally launched on World Environment Day 2023 (June 5). The scheme supports restoration efforts across coastal states and union territories.

3. What are the goals of MISHTI?

• Restore and expand mangrove cover
• Strengthen natural coastal defences against erosion, storms, and cyclones
• Enhance biodiversity in coastal regions
• Provide livelihood opportunities for coastal communities through eco-tourism and sustainable harvesting
• Increase carbon capture by regenerating blue carbon ecosystems

4. How much area has been covered under MISHTI so far?

As of 2025, Gujarat alone has planted 19,000 hectares of mangroves in two years, surpassing the national annual target of 14,000 hectares. The central government plans to bring 54,000 hectares under mangrove cover in the next few years.

5. What makes MISHTI different from earlier efforts?

• Scientific planning, local community involvement, and satellite-based monitoring
• Convergence with Mahatma Gandhi NREGA, CAMPA Fund, and State Forest Departments for implementation
• Focus on both ecological restoration and economic empowerment

6. How does MISHTI help local communities?

• Generates jobs in mangrove nurseries, plantation, and monitoring
• Supports fisheries, honey collection, and eco-tourism
• Reduces climate-related risks to homes, farms, and infrastructure in coastal villages

7. Which states are actively participating in MISHTI?

States like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Odisha are actively implementing MISHTI. Key focus zones include the Gulf of Kachchh and the Sundarbans.

8. How does MISHTI align with India’s climate goals?

• Supports India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement
• Enhances blue carbon absorption to offset emissions
• Reduces disaster risk in vulnerable coastal areas