Every year, World Desertification and Drought Day (June 17) reminds us that land is far more than a natural resource. It is the foundation of our food systems, livelihoods, water security and climate resilience. Restoring degraded lands is therefore not merely an environmental imperative; it is central to India's journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has adopted an integrated approach to natural resource management that recognises the inter-connectedness of agriculture, water, forests, biodiversity, climate action and rural livelihoods. This "Whole-of-Government" approach has emerged as a defining feature of India's development trajectory.
