World Day to Combat Desertification observed today

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is being observed today globally. The day is a unique moment to remind everyone that land degradation neutrality (LDN) is achievable. The commemoration of the day is led by the Secretariat of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. The theme for this year is – “Restore the land. Unlock the оpportunities”, which shines a light on how restoring nature’s foundation-land-can create jobs, boost food and water security, support climate action and build economic resilience.

As part of its celebrations in India, Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change Bhupender Yadav and Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat will inaugurate the National Workshop on “Strategies for Combating Desertification and Drought” at the



Arid Forest Research Institute in Jodhpur today. The workshop is aligned with the 2025 global theme, and it will emphasise the importance of land restoration for climate resilience, biodiversity, and sustainable rural development. The workshop will bring together scientists, policymakers, forest officials, and civil society organisations.

Moreover, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) is also organising a webinar under its Business for Environment (B4E) Series, titled ‘Forests and Finance: Unlocking the Power of Carbon Markets and REDD+’, today at 3 PM. This session will highlight how forest conservation, carbon markets, and REDD+ mechanisms can mobilise climate finance and advance nature-based solutions for a sustainable and resilient future.