Where the Land Meets the Sea

by EconomyMirabilia Icons

As the morning tide gently laps against the shores of Navghar, Vandana Patil steps onto the damp earth of her village’s coastline. She recalls a time when the sea was generous, offering abundant crab and fish catch. But over the years, that generosity faded. “Earlier, we used to see unpredictable crab and fish catch and had to rely on other sources of livelihoods,” she says, her voice carrying the weight of years spent worrying about an uncertain future.

The culprit was clear: the unchecked destruction of mangroves. The towering green guardians of the coastline had been silently disappearing, their roots no longer anchoring the land, their dense canopies no longer sheltering marine life. With every tree lost, so too was a piece of the community’s livelihood. Yet, many in Navghar remained unaware of the deep connection between the mangroves and their survival.

Change arrived in the form of a far-reaching initiative. The Government of India, in collaboration with the Green Climate Fund and UNDP, launched a project to enhance climate resilience in India’s coastal communities. This initiative, operational across three coastal states-Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha focused on conserving and restoring marine ecosystems, including mangroves, while creating climate-resilient livelihoods.

Navghar became a symbol of this transformation. In 2021, the project formed a Mangrove Co-Management Committee, bringing together village members, the Gram Panchayat, and women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Their mission was twofold: protect the mangroves and revive local livelihoods. Women, often the most affected by economic instability, were placed at the forefront.

Through structured training, they learned sustainable crab farming techniques, creating new livelihood groups like Healthy Harvest and Wild Crab Aqua Farm. These groups now farm mud crabs over two acres of coastal land while ensuring the protection of mangroves from illegal cutting. The impact was immediate.

“Through our campaigns and drives, we have raised awareness about mangroves and their link to healthy fish catch and livelihoods,” explains Rohan Patil, president of the committee. “People no longer see them as just trees—they see them as protectors.”

By 2023, the once-barren coastline had transformed. The mangroves stood tall, shielding the land from erosion and storms, while the waters teemed with life again. The benefits extended beyond the environment. “The project helped us a lot,” Vandana shares. “Earlier, women worked only seasonally. Now, we have employment throughout the year. Besides, earlier we had to travel far and wide for crab farming; now, we can do it locally.”

What is Mangrove?

A mangrove is a salt-tolerant plant community found in tropical and subtropical intertidal regions. These ecosystems thrive in high-rainfall areas (1,000–3,000 mm) with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 35°C. Mangrove species are adapted to survive in waterlogged soils, high salinity, and frequent tidal surges. They serve as crucial biodiversity refuges and act as bio-shields against extreme climatic events. Additionally, rural populations depend on mangroves for biomass-based livelihoods.

India’s Progress in Mangrove Conservation

India has made significant strides in mangrove conservation through a combination of robust regulatory frameworks and targeted promotional initiatives. As per the India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR-2023), India’s total mangrove cover stands at 4,991.68 sq. km, constituting 0.15% of the nation’s geographical area. There has been net increase of 363.68 Sq.km (7.86%) in Mangrove cover area of the country in 2023 as compared to 2013 and net increase of 509.68 Sq.km (11.4%) between 2001 and 2023.

West Bengal holds the largest share of the country’s mangrove forests, accounting for 42.45% of the total cover, followed by Gujarat (23.32%) and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands (12.19%). Notably, Gujarat has recorded an impressive increase of 253.06 sq. km in mangrove cover between 2001 and 2023, attributed to large-scale plantations, community participation, and public-private partnerships.

Key Regulatory Measures

India has implemented a series of stringent legal frameworks to ensure mangrove protection:

  • Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2019 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, categorises mangroves as Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs), restricting activities within a 50-metre buffer zone where mangrove cover exceeds 1,000 sq. m.
  • Mandates compensatory replantation at a 3:1 ratio if mangroves are affected by development.
  • Additional protection under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Indian Forest Act, 1927, and Biological Diversity Act, 2002, among others.

Key Promotional Initiatives and Achievements

Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI):

  • Launched on 5 June 2023 to promote restoration and afforestation across 540 sq. km in 9 coastal States and 4 Union Territories.
  • Implementation through convergence funding with the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
  • For FY 2024–25, ₹17.96 crore has been allocated to Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal, and Puducherry for the treatment and restoration of 3,836 hectares of degraded mangroves.

National Coastal Mission – Conservation of Mangroves and Coral Reefs:

  • Financial assistance for the conservation of 38 mangrove sites and 4 coral reef sites across the country.
  • Operates on a 60:40 cost-sharing model between the Centre and States.
  • ₹8.58 crore released to seven coastal States during 2021–23 for mangrove conservation.

GCF-ECRICC Project (Green Climate Fund – Enhancing Coastal Resilience of Indian Coastal Community):

  • Active since 2019 in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha.
  • Aims to restore and conserve 10,575 hectares of mangroves.
  • As of 2024, 3,114.29 hectares have been successfully restored.

 

 

 

 

Mangroves: Nature’s Carbon Vault

As per World Wildlife Fund mangroves store 7.5–10 times more carbon per acre than tropical forests. Their loss contributes to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation. These coastal forests hold over 21 gigatons of carbon, 87% of which is locked in the soil beneath their roots. Restoring just 1.6 million acres of lost mangrove forests could capture an additional 1 gigaton of carbon.

A Tidal Shift Towards Sustainability

Navghar’s transformation reflects a broader movement sweeping across India’s coastline where communities are not just adapting to change but actively shaping it. The revival of mangroves, once overlooked and degraded, now stands as a testament to collective action and inclusive development.

Through the integration of science, policy, and grassroots participation, India is forging a path where ecological restoration directly uplifts local economies. Women like Vandana Patil are no longer passive witnesses to environmental loss but active custodians of their natural heritage, securing livelihoods while nurturing resilience.

This shift marks more than environmental progress. It signals a future where nature-based solutions become central to climate action and communities, once vulnerable, emerge as champions of sustainable change.

India’s Most-Capped Women’s Player Vandana Katariya Bids Farewell To International Hockey

by Latest UpdatesSports

Indian women’s hockey stalwart Vandana Katariya has officially announced her retirement from international hockey, bringing an end to an illustrious career spanning over 15 years.

With 320 international appearances and 158 goals to her name, Vandana departs as the most-capped player in the history of Indian women’s hockey. Beyond the numbers, she leaves behind an inspiring legacy—one of resilience, quiet determination, and an unwavering commitment to elevating Indian women’s hockey.

The 32-year-old forward, who made her senior team debut in 2009, was an integral part of several defining moments in the sport, including India’s historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she became the first and only Indian woman to score a hat-trick at the Games.

Announcing her retirement, Vandana, who played her last match for India during the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 in February, reflected on her journey with mixed emotions.

“This decision wasn’t easy, but I know it’s the right time. Hockey has been my life for as long as I can remember, and wearing the Indian jersey was the greatest honour. But every journey has its course, and I leave with immense pride, gratitude, and love for the sport. Indian hockey is in great hands, and I will always be its biggest supporter.”

She extended heartfelt appreciation to everyone who played a role in her career. “I want to thank my coaches, teammates, support staff, Hockey India, my family, and all the fans who have supported me over the years. Every cheer, every message, every word of encouragement meant the world to me.”

Hailing from Roshnabad, Haridwar, Vandana’s journey began like that of many young girls in India—on dusty fields with dreams far bigger than her circumstances. Over the years, she represented India on the grandest stages, including two Olympic Games (Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020), two FIH Hockey Women’s World Cups (2018, 2022), three Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, 2022), and three Asian Games (2014, 2018, 2022).

Her contributions were instrumental in India’s rise in world hockey. She played a pivotal role in securing gold medals at the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy (2016, 2023) and the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup (2022), silver medals at the 2018 Asian Games, the 2013 and 2018 Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, and bronze medals at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the 2014 and 2022 Asian Games, and the FIH Hockey Pro League 2021-22.

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey paid tribute to Vandana’s contributions, saying, “Vandana was not just a goal scorer; she was the heartbeat of the Indian attack, a tireless worker, and a leader by example. Her presence in the forward line gave India an edge, especially in high-pressure situations. She has set a benchmark for future generations, and we at Hockey India are immensely proud of her achievements. We wish her the very best in her future endeavours.”

Vandana was also a key member of India’s bronze medal-winning squad at the 2013 Junior World Cup, finishing as the team’s top scorer and the tournament’s third-highest goal scorer.

Apart from representing India in multiple global tournaments, Vandana featured in the inaugural edition of the Women’s Hockey India League in 2025, playing for Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers.

Among her many achievements, Vandana’s Tokyo Olympics heroics remain unforgettable. Her hat-trick in a crucial 4-3 victory over South Africa helped India reach the quarterfinals and secure their best-ever Olympic finish.

Speaking about that defining moment, Vandana said, “I still get goosebumps thinking about Tokyo. The Olympics are special, and that match against South Africa was one of the most emotional games of my life. I just wanted to give everything for my team, for my country. The hattrick was special, but more than that, it was about proving that we belonged on that stage.”

For her immense contributions, Vandana was honoured with some of India’s most prestigious awards, including the Arjuna Award (2021) and the Padma Shri (2022). She also received the Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr. Award for Player of the Year (Women) in 2014, the Hockey India President’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in 2021, and the Hockey India Dhanraj Pillay Award for Forward of the Year in 2021 and 2022, cementing her status as one of India’s finest forwards.

Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh lauded her remarkable journey, stating, “Vandana’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. From her early days to becoming a stalwart of Indian hockey, she has shown exceptional skill, resilience, and commitment. Her performances in crucial matches, especially at the Tokyo Olympics, will be remembered for years to come. As she takes her final bow, she leaves behind a legacy of resilience, excellence, and inspiration—one that will continue to guide the next generation of Indian hockey stars.”

–IANS

 

 

 

 

 

 

PM Modi And Chilean President Hold Bilateral Talks At Hyderabad House

by EconomyLatest Updates

President Boric. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen long-standing bilateral ties. Jaishankar later shared his thoughts on X, saying, “Pleased to call on President Gabriel Boric of Chile at the start of his state visit to India. Appreciate his commitment for deepening our long-standing cooperation. Confident that his talks with PM Narendra Modi today will foster new partnerships and greater engagement.”

As part of his visit, President Boric will travel to Mumbai and Bengaluru, where he will engage with political figures, industry leaders, startup entrepreneurs, and technology innovators. These discussions aim to foster collaborations in key sectors between the two nations.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that this state visit is an important opportunity for both India and Chile to review their bilateral relations and deliberate on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

“India-Chile relations have traditionally been characterised by warmth, friendship, and a commonality of views on a wide range of issues. Both countries cooperate extensively in multilateral forums and share similar views on climate change, renewable energy, and on the expansion and reforms of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC),” the MEA said.

Inputs from IANS

Towering blaze in Malaysia on Petronas pipeline, 63 sent to hospital

by EconomyLatest Updates

At least 63 people were being treated in hospitals in Malaysia on Tuesday after a major blaze at a gas pipeline operated by state energy firm Petronas, authorities said, with efforts ongoing to control the fire and evacuate residents.

The fire started on Tuesday morning in the town of Puchong in Selangor state on the outskirts of the capital Kuala Lumpur and those taken to hospitals had suffered burns, respiratory problems or other injuries, authorities said.

The pipeline had been isolated, Petronas in a statement said. The fire department said the firm had closed off the valve on the 500 m (1,640 feet) long pipeline and 49 houses in the area had been affected.

The fire started on Tuesday morning with a towering orange blaze on the horizon and a large plume of smoke above, according to early images carried by news outlets and footage shared on social media.

A Reuters journalist located about 5 km (3 miles) away from the blaze said the intensity of the fire had reduced by early afternoon but a flame and billowing smoke could still be seen.

Ambulances were seen rushing towards the area of the fire, which had been sealed off by authorities.

No deaths were reported but the full extent of the injuries or damage so far was not immediately clear. Authorities had earlier said some people trapped in their homes.

Petronas said it was working closely with all relevant parties to ensure the safety of the surrounding community, environment and security of gas supply to the country.

The government set up relief centres at two local mosques, Bernama reported.

India-Thailand Bilateral Trade Ties Set To Strengthen During PM Modi’s Visit

by EconomyLatest Updates

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Thailand from April 3-4 to participate in the 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit.

As part of his visit, PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on April 3. The two leaders are expected to review bilateral cooperation and outline future partnerships between India and Thailand.

“India and Thailand are maritime neighbours with shared civilizational bonds which are underpinned by cultural, linguistic, and religious ties,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

Thailand’s investments in India have grown significantly in recent years, with key sectors including infrastructure, real estate, agro-processing, electronics, automotive, food processing, hospitality, and renewable energy.

A major highlight of this economic collaboration came in 2021, when Global Renewable Synergy Co., Ltd. made the largest-ever Thai investment in India’s renewable energy sector, amounting to $453.29 million.

Bilateral trade growth has been supported by initiatives like the Early Harvest Scheme (EHS), covering 83 products under the India-Thailand Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), which was implemented in September 2004. Additionally, the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) has facilitated increased trade. ASEAN and India are currently reviewing AITIGA to simplify and enhance its trade facilitation for businesses.

According to Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce, bilateral trade between India and Thailand reached $16.04 billion in 2023. Indian exports to Thailand were valued at $5.92 billion, while imports from Thailand to India stood at $10.11 billion.

Among ASEAN nations, Thailand is India’s fourth-largest trading partner, following Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Key Indian exports to Thailand include silver bars, gold, machinery and parts, metal scrap and products, chemicals, vegetables, medicinal products, seafood (fresh, chilled, frozen, processed), vehicle parts and accessories, iron, steel, electrical machinery, household appliances, and fabrics.

On the other hand, major imports from Thailand include animal and vegetable fats and oils, chemicals, polymers of ethylene and propylene, precious stones and jewellery, and iron and steel products.

(With IANS inputs)

President of India graces closing ceremony of the commemoration of 90th year of RBI

by Banking & FinanceLatest Updates

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the closing ceremony of the commemoration of 90th year of the Reserve Bank of India in Mumbai today (April 1, 2025).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the RBI, as the central bank, is at the very centre of India’s incredible growth story. It has witnessed the whole journey of the country so far, from the time before Independence when it was suffering from widespread poverty to the time now when it is among the top economies in the world.

The President said that RBI has emerged as one of the most critically important institutions in the nation. She pointed out that a common man or woman has no direct interaction with RBI – except for its name printed on the currency notes in their pockets, but indirectly all their financial dealings, through banks and otherwise, are governed by the RBI. And they instinctively place their utmost faith in the financial system overseen by it. She stated that in the nine decades, the biggest achievement of the RBI is this trust.

The RBI earned this trust by steadfastly maintaining its mandate of price stability, growth, and financial stability. Also, it has continuously adapted to meet the evolving needs of our growing nation. Its swift responses to key challenges, from economic liberalisation in the 1990s to the Covid-19 pandemic, highlight its resilience and adaptability. In an increasingly globalising world, it has also ensured that India’s financial system remains resilient in the face of any adverse international trends.

The President said that the RBI has played a key role in making India a global leader in digital payments. By continuously modernizing the country’s payment infrastructure, it has ensured that digital transactions are not only seamless and efficient but also secure. Innovations like the UPI have revolutionised financial access, enabling instant, low-cost transactions and deepening financial inclusion. Beyond payments, RBI has nurtured a vibrant fin-tech ecosystem.

The President said that as India approaches the centenary of its Independence, the mission of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ calls for a financial ecosystem that is innovative, adaptive, and accessible to all. She stated that the path ahead would present new complexities and challenges.

She expressed confidence that with a steadfast commitment to stability, innovation and inclusivity, RBI would continue to be a pillar of strength – reinforcing trust and steering India towards a future of prosperity and global leadership. She said that as the guardian of monetary and financial stability, RBI would play a defining role in this journey – ensuring a sound banking system, driving financial innovation, and safeguarding trust in our financial ecosystem.

Navika Sagar Parikrama II Tarini enters Cape Town , South Africa

by Latest UpdatesTechnology

INSV Tarini entered Cape Town, South Africa, completing the fourth leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition, the vessel and the crew were welcomed by Ms Ruby Jaspreet, Consul General of India at Cape Town, Rear Admiral (JG) Lisa Hendricks, Chief of Staff, South African Navy Fleet and the Defence Adviser of India at Pretoria, Captain Atul Sapahia. South African Naval Band also performed welcoming the vessel to the port.

The NSP II expedition was flagged off by Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, on 02 Oct 24, from Goa, and is being undertaken by two women officers of the Indian Navy, Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, onboard Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV Tarini). The mission aims to cover more than 23,400 nautical miles (approximately 43,300 kilometers) in eight months, with a scheduled return to Goa in May 2025. The expedition has so far had three stopovers at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand) and Port Stanley, Falklands (UK).

The vessel will be at Royal Cape Yacht Club for two weeks for scheduled maintenance and repairs. The crew of the vessel will engage and interact with the South African Navy at Simon’s Town Naval Base and Gordon’s Bay Naval College. Community Outreach events are also planned during their stay.

The vessel and the crew having encountered rough seas and extremely cold temperature coupled with stormy weather conditions, made the task of circumnavigation highly challenging and demanding. The passage so far witnessed winds in excess of 50 knots (93 kmph) and waves upto 7 meters (23 feet) high.

The indigenously built INSV Tarini is a 56-foot sailing vessel, which was inducted in the Indian Navy in 2018 and has participated in many such expeditions earlier. The vessel is a true testament of ‘Make in India’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative of the Government of India.

The Navika Sagar Parikrama-II expedition also promotes women empowerment in the Indian Armed Forces and is expected to motivate many young women to join the Services and Indian Navy in particular. This edition is also aimed at furthering marine and scientific researches

The stopover of Tarini at Cape Town exhibits the growing relations between India and South Africa and how India stands committed to strengthen its maritime cooperation with the friendly countries in the Indian Ocean Region.

In the recent past, Indian Naval Ship Talwar participated in the 8th edition of Exercise IBSAMAR in October 2024 in South Africa. The month of January this year also saw the latest stealth frigate of Indian Navy INS Tushil making a port call at Durban and engaging with the South African Navy and the Indian community in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Such visits and engagements bring the Navies together to address the common challenges in the maritime domain and learn from the best practices for ensuring safe and secure seas.

Sourcex India 2025 inaugurated at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi

by Mirabilia Icons

The 3rd edition of Sourcex India 2025, organized by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) with support from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, was inaugurated on 26th March, 2025 at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi. The event was officially inaugurated by Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Government of India, Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi.

In his keynote address, DGFT, Shri Sarangi underscored the importance of Sourcex India in fostering a robust ecosystem for promoting India’s foreign trade, particularly exports. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting sourcing from India through various incentive schemes and initiatives such as Make in India, Startup India, and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme. He highlighted that these efforts are aimed at enhancing manufacturing competitiveness, promoting the adoption of advanced technologies, and strengthening India’s position in global markets.

He further emphasized the role of digitization and ease of doing business in improving product quality and standardization, which are crucial for enhancing global acceptance of Indian goods. Additionally, he mentioned the Government’s ongoing efforts to explore new market access opportunities through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with key international partners to boost exports further.

Officiating President, FIEO, Shri Ashwani Kumar described Sourcex India 2025 as a landmark event that strengthens India’s position as a leading global supplier of high-quality products. He emphasized the importance of direct engagement between Indian exporters and international buyers, highlighting the event’s role in expanding India’s trade footprint worldwide.

With participation from over 150 global buyers across 45+ countries, including regions such as Africa, CIS, EU, LAC, NAFTA, NEA, Oceania, SA, SEA, and WANA, Sourcex India 2025 is a key platform for Indian exporters to engage with international markets. The event features participation from Indian companies across diverse sectors, including Food & Beverages, Health & Beauty, FMCG & FMCD, Apparel & Garments, Textiles & Home Decor, E-Commerce Services, and Logistics. Additionally, the event showcases the work of 10 National Award-winning artisans from across India, supported by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.

SOURCEX-INDIA
In line with the vision of the Government of India, FIEO has launched “SOURCEX INDIA” (RBSM) in New Delhi from Coming soon!.

Sourcex India is India’s first Global Market Place for Indian brands to go global, covering both food & non-food FastMoving Consumer Goods (FMCG) as well as Services.

Sourcex India 2025 will help India companies to launch successful Indian brands to international markets. The event will also showcase India’s select services which have the potential to be franchised overseas.

For the event, more than 250 buyers from across the globe will be participating in the Event and will have their B2B meetings with Indian exhibitors. Reputed buyers representing big brands of Supermarkets, Hypermarket, retail chains and buying agents will be present.