Land Degradation Neutrality in India: Pathways and Challenges

The process of land degradation is a prime global concern threatening all life forms on this planet. The concept of Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) etches a direction and provides an objective framework towards tackling this problem. However, achievement of LDN by any nation requires effective policies, enhanced information systems, research development and targeted training programs for engaging stakeholders in land degradation management, ultimately supporting higher land productivity. The identification of land degradation hot spots with the help of the three LDN indicators, specifically Net Primary Productivity (NPP) would help in creation of baseline data, define targets, and prioritize degraded lands at both district and state levels through multiple criteria. Additionally, the coordination among key stakeholders like state principal secretaries, the Department of Land Resources (DoLR), ICAR Institutes, the Department of Forest, and the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) are essential for working towards the achievement of the targets put forth by India. Prioritizing and planning through identification of district wise degradation hotspots in line with the district irrigation plan can be a catalyst to achieve LDN in India.