India has launched its first-ever Guide to Grasslands and Other Open Natural Ecosystems (ONEs). The launch took place at the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the UNCCD. Notably, the event was held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on 17 August 2026. Moreover, the guide marks a key step for conserving India’s often ignored ecosystems.
What the Guide to Grasslands Covers
The document highlights the rich diversity of India’s grasslands, savannas and deserts. Also, it explains their ecological value. Furthermore, it shows their social and economic importance for millions of people. Thus, it aims to strengthen conservation, restoration and sustainable management of these lands.
What Are Open Natural Ecosystems?
Open Natural Ecosystems are natural areas without a closed tree canopy. For example, they include grasslands, savannas, scrublands and deserts. However, people often treat them as “wastelands”. As a result, many ONEs face conversion to farms, plantations or industry. In fact, these lands store carbon, support wildlife and feed livestock.
India’s Grasslands at a Glance
India has many unique grassland types. For instance, Gujarat’s Banni grasslands are famous for livestock. Similarly, the Western Ghats have shola grasslands. In the north, the Terai grasslands support rhinos and tigers. Likewise, Uttarakhand’s alpine meadows, or bugyals, are high-altitude grasslands. So, grasslands matter for both the plains and the hills.
Wildlife That Depends on Grasslands
Several threatened species need open habitats. For example, the Great Indian Bustard lives in grasslands of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Also, the blackbuck, the Indian wolf and the lesser florican depend on them. Therefore, protecting ONEs is vital for India’s biodiversity.
About UNCCD and COP17
UNCCD stands for the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. It came into being in 1994. Moreover, it is the only legally binding global agreement linking land, environment and development. Notably, India hosted COP14 in New Delhi in 2019. Meanwhile, the UN has declared 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. Hence, the launch at COP17 was well timed.
Why the Guide to Grasslands Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, environment questions often test international conventions and ecosystems. So, remember the COP number, the venue and the meaning of ONEs. Also, revise major grasslands of India, including the bugyals of Uttarakhand. For official updates, also visit the UNCCD website. Next, for a related story, read about the Nanda Devi Badi Jat route through Bedni Bugyal.
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