- The National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) is a conservation initiative focused on wetlands and lakes.
- It emerged by amalgamating the National Lake Conservation Plan and the National Wetlands Conservation Programme.
- This centrally-sponsored scheme is currently administered by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
- The allocation of central aid is contingent on submissions from state governments, considering specified criteria and the availability of funds.
The program encompasses a range of activities, including the interception, diversion, and treatment of wastewater, shoreline protection, lakefront development, in-situ cleaning (desilting and de-weeding), stormwater management, bioremediation, catchment area treatment, lake beautification, survey and demarcation, bio-fencing, fisheries development, weed control, biodiversity conservation, education and awareness creation, and community participation, among others.
Aim & Objectives of NPCA (National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems)
Aim:
- The NPCA strives for the comprehensive conservation and restoration of lakes and wetlands.
- The primary goal is to achieve significant improvements in water quality, enhance biodiversity, and restore ecosystems.
- The approach is integrated and multidisciplinary, operating under a common regulatory framework.
Objectives:
- Holistic Conservation: Implementing measures that address the entire spectrum of issues related to the health and sustainability of lakes and wetlands.
- Water Quality Enhancement: Focusing on actions that lead to a measurable and sustainable improvement in the quality of water in targeted aquatic ecosystems.
- Biodiversity Improvement: Undertaking initiatives to enhance the variety and abundance of species within lakes and wetlands, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.
- Integrated Approach: Employing a multidisciplinary strategy that combines various conservation methods to address ecological, hydrological, and environmental aspects.
- Common Regulatory Framework: Establishing and adhering to a unified set of regulations and guidelines to streamline conservation efforts and ensure effective implementation.
- Pollution Load Reduction: Contributing to the reduction of pollution loads in lakes and wetlands, thereby minimizing adverse impacts on the environment and aquatic life.
- Stakeholder Benefits: Improving the goods and services provided by lakes and wetlands to stakeholders, acknowledging the vital role these water bodies play in supporting various ecological functions.
- Community Involvement: Encouraging active participation and collaboration with local communities to create a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the conservation of aquatic ecosystems.
The NPCA’s comprehensive approach, guided by these objectives, aims to create a sustainable and thriving environment for lakes and wetlands, benefiting both the ecosystem and the communities dependent on these vital water bodies.
FAQs: National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems
1. What is NPCA, and what does it focus on?
A: The National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) is a dedicated conservation initiative aimed at wetlands and lakes in India. It addresses the holistic well-being of these aquatic environments.
2. How did NPCA originate?
A: NPCA emerged by combining two pre-existing plans: the National Lake Conservation Plan and the National Wetlands Conservation Programme. This amalgamation resulted in a more comprehensive and integrated approach.
3. Who oversees the implementation of NPCA?
A: The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) currently administers the NPCA scheme at the national level.
4. How is funding allocated under NPCA?
A: Central aid is provided based on proposals received from state governments. The allocation considers specific criteria and the availability of funds.
5. What activities are covered under NPCA?
A: NPCA encompasses a wide range of activities, including wastewater interception, diversion, and treatment, shoreline protection, lakefront development, in-situ cleaning (desilting and de-weeding), stormwater management, bioremediation, catchment area treatment, lake beautification, survey and demarcation, bio-fencing, fisheries development, weed control, biodiversity conservation, education and awareness creation, and community participation.
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