What are the geographical factors responsible for the growth of mangrove vegetation in India? Also highlight its role in coastal ecology.

Mangroves are salt-tolerant plant species which generally grows in the inter-tidal region. [Fig: Sundari tree in the Sundarbans] Mangroves account for about 4992 sq km of Indian land according to Indian Forest Survey 2023. Geographical factors responsible for growth of mangroves: (1) Prevalence of long coastline which is more than 7500 km. (2) Emergent coastline along Bay of Bengal leading to shallow coast.

Thus there is a need to conserve mangroves: 1) MISHTI Scheme for mangroves. 2) Coastal Regulation Zone CRZ norms for sustainable coastal development 3) Environment Impact Assessment for coastal projects. Thus, mangroves are not mere vegetation, but a source of livelihood and resilience of coastal community.