- The National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) is one of the key climate missions outlined by the Indian government within the framework of the NAPCC (National Action Plan on Climate Change) mitigation strategy.
- Initiated in 2010, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Science and Technology.
- Notably, the NMSHE stands out as the sole mission among the NAPCC’s eight initiatives that focuses on a specific geographical area.
- The primary objective of the NMSHE is to enhance the nation’s sustainable capacity for consistent monitoring of the Himalayan Ecosystem’s health.
- It aims to provide essential support to policymaking bodies and assist states within the Indian Himalayan Region in implementing sustainable development initiatives.
NMSHE – Primary Objectives
- Conduct scientific research to assess the susceptibility of the Himalayan environment to short- and long-term changes in climate and weather.
- Formulate policies aimed at safeguarding the fragile ecology based on the findings of scientific research.
- Facilitate timely implementation of conservation programs by states within the Himalayan region to preserve the ecosystem.
NMSHE – Secondary Objectives
- Establish an information network in collaboration with organizations engaged in Himalayan Ecosystem research.
- Utilize reliable research to forecast future impacts on the Himalayan regions.
- Develop strategies for economic growth in mountainous areas by evaluating the ecological and socioeconomic consequences of global environmental changes.
- Explore the potential of traditional medical practices in mitigating the effects of climate change.
- Disseminate knowledge to all stakeholders involved in Himalayan ecosystem preservation.
- Equip states with the necessary knowledge and resources to effectively protect the Himalayan ecology.
NMSHE – FUNCTIONAL AREAS
- Study of Himalayan glaciers and their hydrological impact.
- Management and prediction of natural hazards.
- Protection and preservation of biodiversity.
- Conservation of wildlife in the Himalayan region.
- Understanding traditional societies and their livelihood practices.
- Addressing governance challenges through scientific regulation and peer evaluation.
- Contribution to restoration and reconstruction efforts in Uttarakhand.
NMSHE – States Covered
The National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem encompasses the following Himalayan states and Union Territories:
- Himachal Pradesh
- Uttarakhand
- Sikkim
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Nagaland
- Manipur
- Mizoram
- Tripura
- Meghalaya
- Assam
- West Bengal
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Ladakh
RECENT IN NEWS
In a recent study titled “Climate Vulnerability Assessment for Adaptation Planning in India Using a Common Framework,” conducted by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the states and districts in India most vulnerable to climate risks have been identified.
According to the findings, the easternmost states, including Jharkhand, Mizoram, Odisha, Assam, Bihar, Arunachal Pradesh, and West Bengal, are among the eight states facing the highest vulnerability. These states require urgent prioritization of adaptation measures to address the risks posed by current climate conditions.
Interestingly, the report highlights that the greenest region of India, as well as central India’s Chhattisgarh, are also particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts.
In alignment with the Nationwide Action Plan on Climate Change, the DST has been actively engaged in implementing two national missions: the National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change (NMSKC) and the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE).
As part of these initiatives, the DST has been providing support to State Climate Change Cells across 25 states and Union Territories to strengthen their efforts in addressing climate change challenges.
Furthermore, through the National Mission on Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) Programme, scientists have been working to disseminate scientific information to farmers, enabling them to adopt sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices.
In addition to their various responsibilities, State Climate Change Cells have been tasked with conducting vulnerability assessments at the district and sub-district levels to better understand the impacts of climate change at the local level.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) Regarding the National Mission on Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE)
1. What is the National Mission on Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE)?
A: The NMSHE is a significant initiative established by the Indian government under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) with the primary objective of preserving and monitoring the health of the Himalayan ecosystem. It is the only mission within the NAPCC focused on a specific geographical area.
2. When was the NMSHE initiated and which ministry governs it?
A: The NMSHE was launched in the year 2010 and is governed by the Ministry of Science and Technology.
3. What are the primary objectives of the NMSHE?
A: The primary objectives include conducting scientific research to assess the susceptibility of the Himalayan environment to climate change, formulating policies for safeguarding the ecology, and facilitating the timely implementation of conservation programs by states in the region.
4. Could you explain the secondary objectives of the NMSHE?
A: Secondary objectives involve establishing an information network, forecasting future impacts, developing strategies for economic growth, exploring traditional medical practices, disseminating knowledge, and equipping states with necessary resources.
5. Which functional areas does the NMSHE focus on?
A: The NMSHE addresses various functional areas such as the study of Himalayan glaciers, natural hazard management, biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection, understanding traditional societies, addressing governance challenges, and contributing to restoration efforts.
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