TN-SHORE

• 20 Feb 2024

Source: TH

Why in News?

The Tamil Nadu government has announced a new scheme called TN-SHORE, to revive the coastal resources and protect the endangered species in the 2024-2025 State Budget.

• TN-SHORE, aims to enhance coastal biodiversity, and coastal protection, improve livelihoods of coastal communities, and control pollution in coastal areas.
• Additionally, the Tamil Nadu government also highlighted the Tamil Nadu Endangered Species Conservation Fund aimed at Endangered Species Conservation and the pursuit of Blue Flag certification for 8 beaches.

What are the Key Highlights of TN-SHORE?

• About:
  • TN-SHORE (Neithal Meetchi Iyakkam) is announced to restore coastal resources across 14 districts, spanning 1,076 km, at an estimated cost of Rs 1,675 crore.
  • The scheme aims to enhance coastal biodiversity, and coastal protection, improve livelihoods of coastal communities, and control pollution in coastal areas.
• TN-SHORE and Blue Economy:
  • The Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem.
  • The scheme will capitalise on the potential of the Blue Economy by focusing on the restoration of mangroves, coral reefs, and salt marshes, which are vital for the marine environment and the coastal economy.
  • The scheme will also help in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
• Benefits the Coastal Communities:
  • The scheme will involve the participation of the local communities, especially the youth, in the conservation and management of the coastal resources.
  • The scheme will provide alternative livelihood opportunities for the coastal communities, such as ecotourism, waste management, and circular economy solutions.
  • The scheme will also contribute to the preservation of the cultural and natural heritage of the coastal areas.

Tamil Nadu (TN) Government's Conservation and Certification Initiatives

• Endangered Species Conservation:
  • The TN government emphasised initiatives to protect endangered species through the establishment of the Tamil Nadu Endangered Species Conservation Fund.
  • Various stakeholders, including government entities, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and national and international funds, will contribute to this fund to protect endangered and critically endangered species.
• Blue Flag Certification for Beaches:
  • The government is actively pursuing Blue Flag certification (BFC) for eight beaches in Tamil Nadu, including the iconic Marina Beach in Chennai.
    • BFC is an eco-label given to beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats that meet certain criteria. The criteria include environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility concerns.
    • It is accorded by the international jury composed of eminent members - United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Denmark-based NGO Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year’s Question (PYQs)

Prelims

Q. What is blue carbon?

(a) Carbon captured by oceans and coastal ecosystems
(b) Carton sequestered in forest biomass and agricultural soils
(c) Carbon contained in petroleum and natural gas
(d) Carbon present in atmosphere

Ans: (a)

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Mains

Q. Defining blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture development in India. (2018)