The World Nature Conservation Day, which is observed every year on July 28, serves as a reminder to preserve natural resources and biodiversity. While a stable and healthy environment is each person’s responsibility, government schemes and initiatives have always played a monumental role. As we rapidly move towards industrial development and urbanisation, it becomes more important to let nature flourish and prevail for a healthy lifestyle, both on a personal and national level. 

Today on the occasion of World Nature Conservation Day, let us take a look at some key initiatives launched by India in the last 5 years. 

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Green Skill Development programme

Launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change under PM Narendra Modi, Green Skill Development programme aims to introduce innovative skills among the youth working in the environment and forest sector.

Under this programme, the government introduced courses for biodiversity conservationists and para-taxonomists for three months at 10 different locations, launched a GSDP mobile app that created mass employment to protect ecosystems and biodiversity, reduce energy and minimize waste and pollution.

Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act (CAMPA)

One of the most robust legal acts aiming to hold those, who exploit natural resources and forests for the development of industries, responsible. The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act was introduced in 2016.

Under this act, any individual or organisation intending to use forest lands for non-forest purposes will be charged.

According to the act, violators will face penalties include the present net value of the forest, compensatory afforestation, and other specific projects relating to the environment.

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Namami Gange programme

In 2014, PM Narendra Modi, considering the environmental value of the river Ganga, launched Namami Gange programme. The Centre allocated a total of Rs 20,000 crore to conserve and rejuvenate the river.

What makes Namami Gange different from other similar initiatives is the involvement of people living on the banks of the river, and the attempt to make them attain sustainable livelihoods and feel the impact first-hand.

The project also roped in grass-root level institutions, including urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions, to work for the same.