Tamil Nadu Coastal Restoration Mission
Mangrove Restoration Efforts in Tamil Nadu: The Tamil Nadu–Sustainable Coastal and Ocean Resource Efficiency (TN–SHORE) is a major initiative for strengthening coastal ecosystems. With an outlay of ₹1,675 crore, it is designed to build resilience against climate change and improve local livelihoods. The World Bank is contributing ₹1,000 crore, while the Tamil Nadu government will provide the remaining funds.
Static GK fact: The World Bank was established in 1944 and is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
Focus on Mangrove Restoration
Mangroves act as natural shields against cyclones, storm surges, and coastal erosion. Under TN–SHORE, 1,000 hectares of mangroves will be restored. This includes 300 hectares of new plantations and 700 hectares of degraded mangrove areas brought back to life. The government has already earmarked ₹38 crore for the initial phase of this restoration.
Static GK Tip: India’s largest mangrove forest is the Sundarbans, spanning West Bengal and Bangladesh.
Role of Community and Local Councils
A unique feature of the program is that World Bank funds will go directly to village mangrove councils. This ensures decentralized financial decision-making and promotes local ownership. By involving communities, the project aligns ecological goals with livelihood opportunities such as fishing, eco-tourism, and sustainable aquaculture.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Mangrove restoration will not only protect biodiversity but also reduce the impact of climate change. Healthy mangroves act as carbon sinks, absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide. They also provide breeding grounds for fish and shellfish, ensuring food security for coastal populations.
Static GK fact: Mangroves cover about 0.15% of the world’s land area but store up to five times more carbon than tropical forests.
Tamil Nadu in Coastal Protection
Tamil Nadu has over 1,000 km of coastline and is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. Past cyclones like Gaja (2018) and Thane (2011) highlighted the importance of coastal buffers. With TN–SHORE, the state is setting a model for climate adaptation by integrating ecosystem restoration, infrastructure development, and community empowerment.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Mangrove Restoration Efforts in Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Project Name | Tamil Nadu–Sustainable Coastal and Ocean Resource Efficiency (TN–SHORE) |
| Total Outlay | ₹1,675 crore |
| World Bank Contribution | ₹1,000 crore |
| Tamil Nadu Government Contribution | ₹675 crore |
| Mangrove Restoration Target | 1,000 hectares |
| New Plantation | 300 hectares |
| Degraded Area Recovery | 700 hectares |
| Initial Allocation for Mangroves | ₹38 crore |
| Fund Management | Directly to village mangrove councils |
| Tamil Nadu Coastline | Over 1,000 km |
