The mangroves, where experts will help the community set up crab, oyster mussel farming, which will not only help them generate revenue but also understand the importance of mangroves and their conservation
Saving mangroves will now be economically beneficial to 60 coastal villages across Maharashtra. The State Mangrove Cell has begun working on its most ambitious project under which it plans to initiate livelihood programmes in villages close to the mangroves, where experts will help the community set up crab, oyster mussel farming, which will not only help them generate revenue but also understand the importance of mangroves and their conservation.
The scheme has been spread over Dahanu, Palgarh, Bhivandi, Alibaug, Ratnagiri, Chiplun, Sawantwadi and other talukas.
"We have hired 30 fisheries graduates. Two of them will work along with the community of every village and study as well as identify the livelihood programme, which can be set up depending on the location and feasibility in consultation with the locals," said Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (APCCF) Mangrove Cell, N Vasudevan.
"It can range from crab to ornamental fish farming as well as cage culture. Since these activities happen in areas around mangroves, there will also be community participation for protecting mangroves which is our main aim," said Vasudevan, and added that this would be a 'Green-Blue' revolution and help co-manage mangroves.
Vasudevan said that the project will be carried out under the Mangrove Foundation and will cost Rs 15 crore annually.
"The work has already been initiated and the two-member team have already begun work in various villages. Once this project sees success, we would ideally want it to be replicated in more villages and through this project we are trying to incentivise protection of mangroves," he added.
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