Management of Invasive Plant Species

Summary of Environmental Initiatives on Invasive Alien Species Management

1. Ministry Involved: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is responsible for the identification and monitoring of Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS).

2. Identification of IAPS:

   • The Indian Forest Survey (FSI) has compiled an album of 45 major invasive species.
   • Invasive plants are found in reserved forest areas in varying densities (dense, moderate, and sporadic).

3. National Biodiversity Authority (NBA):

   • The Botanical Survey of India (BSI) has prepared a detailed, state-wise list of potentially invasive species for the NBA to assist in developing a national management plan.

4. Management and Removal:

   • State governments and Union Territory administrations, along with relevant agencies, are tasked with the removal and control of invasive species in reserved and protected forest areas.
   • This work aligns with local needs and approved forest and wildlife management plans.

5. Government Initiatives:

   • The government promotes the conservation, regeneration, and enhancement of local plant species through sustainable forest management practices.
   • The National Forest Policy, 1988 aims to maintain environmental stability, restore ecological balance, and increase forest/tree cover through plantation and regeneration using local species.

6. National Action Plan Code, 2023:

   • Provisions for ecosystem-based forest management are included, focusing on:
     • Management of invasive species.
     • Restoration of degraded forest areas.
     • Soil and moisture conservation measures.
     • Water resource management.
     • Prioritization of local species in regeneration and restoration activities considering local environmental conditions.

7. Environmental Benefits:

   • These measures aim to enhance soil moisture, groundwater recharge, water retention capacity, and overall ecosystem resilience.

8. Legislative and Policy Framework:

   • The initiatives are supported by constitutional provisions related to environmental protection and sustainable development, aligning with the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) under Article 48A, which mandates the state to protect and improve the environment.

This structured approach reflects the government's commitment to tackling environmental challenges posed by invasive species while promoting biodiversity and ecological health.