The case for a nature restoration law in India

The urgent need for a comprehensive Nature Restoration Law in India is underscored by the alarming rate of land degradation affecting nearly 30% of the country’s geographical area. The EU's recently enacted Nature Restoration Law (NRL) serves as a potential model for India to address its environmental crises.

Current Environmental Challenges

• Extent of Land Degradation: India's Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas indicates that approximately 97.85 million hectares (29.7%) of land were degraded by 2018-19, a significant increase from 94.53 million hectares in 2003-05. States like Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan account for 23.79% of this desertified land.
• Comparison with EU's NRL: The EU's NRL mandates the restoration of at least 20% of its land and sea areas by 2030 and aims for full restoration by 2050. This law targets various ecosystems, reflecting a comprehensive approach that India could emulate.
• Existing Initiatives in India: India has initiated programs like the Green India Mission and the National Afforestation Programme to combat land degradation. However, the severity of the issue necessitates a legally binding framework similar to the EU's NRL to ensure sustainable ecosystem restoration.

Proposed Framework for India's Law

• Restoration Targets: A potential Nature Restoration Law for India could set a target to restore 20% of degraded land by 2030, ultimately aiming for complete restoration of ecosystems by 2050, encompassing forests, wetlands, and urban spaces.
• Focus on Key Ecosystems: The law should prioritize the restoration of critical wetlands, agricultural biodiversity, and free-flowing rivers. For instance, targeting a 30% restoration of key wetlands like the Sundarbans by 2030 can enhance biodiversity and carbon sequestration.
• Economic and Social Benefits: Implementing a restoration law could yield substantial economic returns, potentially generating up to $10 trillion globally by 2030. In India, such efforts would improve agricultural productivity, water security, and create millions of jobs, particularly in rural areas.

Practice Question

Q: Critically evaluate the need for a comprehensive Nature Restoration Law in India, drawing comparisons with the European Union's Nature Restoration Law and its potential impact on environmental and socio-economic aspects.