Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME): A Win-Win Model for Livelihoods and Conservation
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Environment & Ecology (Mangroves, Sundarbans, Sustainable Agriculture, Aquaculture, Carbon Sequestration); International Bodies (Food and Agriculture Organization - FAO).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3 (Environment & Economy): Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation; Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country; Economics of animal-rearing (aquaculture); Food processing and related industries. This is a perfect case study for a solution that balances development and conservation.
Key Highlights from the News
Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME), an innovative farming model developed in the Sundarbans region of West Bengal, received Global Technical Recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
This model was developed by Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS), a non-governmental organization (NGO).
Key features of the SAIME model:
5% to 30% mangrove coverage is planted and protected in fish farming ponds.
Naturally falling leaves and other debris (mangrove litter) from the mangroves are used as feed for shrimp.
Main benefits of this model:
Farmers' net income increased by over 100 percent.
Production costs significantly reduced due to decreased need for artificial feed.
It promotes chemical-free shrimp farming.
Helps with coastal resilience and carbon sequestration.
This is an excellent example of a sustainable development model that can combine livelihood and environmental protection.
COMMENTS