<h4>Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme</h4><p>The <strong>Central government</strong> is actively transforming <strong>wetland tourism</strong> through the <strong>‘Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme’</strong>. This initiative aims to revolutionize tourism practices at ecologically sensitive wetland areas.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Launch Date:</strong> June 2023</p><p><strong>Objective:</strong> To enhance livelihood opportunities and promote local conservation efforts at <strong>Ramsar sites</strong> through sustainable tourism.</p></div><p>This scheme focuses particularly on prominent <strong>Ramsar sites</strong> across India, integrating local communities into conservation and tourism activities. It is a collaborative effort to ensure ecological balance while fostering economic growth.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Collaborating Ministries:</strong> <strong>Ministry of Tourism</strong> and <strong>Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change</strong>.</p></div><h4>TN-SHORE (Neithal Meetchi Iyakkam)</h4><p>The <strong>Tamil Nadu government</strong> has introduced a significant new scheme named <strong>TN-SHORE (Neithal Meetchi Iyakkam)</strong>. This initiative is designed to revitalize the state's coastal resources and protect endangered marine species.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Announcement:</strong> 2024-2025 State Budget</p><p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> <strong>Rs 1,675 crore</strong></p><p><strong>Coverage:</strong> <strong>14 coastal districts</strong>, spanning <strong>1,076 km</strong> of coastline.</p></div><p>The primary goals of <strong>TN-SHORE</strong> include enhancing <strong>coastal biodiversity</strong> and improving the livelihoods of <strong>coastal communities</strong>. It also focuses on effective coastal protection measures and controlling pollution in coastal areas.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Additional Initiatives:</strong> The <strong>Tamil Nadu Endangered Species Conservation Fund</strong> and pursuit of <strong>Blue Flag certification</strong> for <strong>8 beaches</strong> are also highlighted alongside TN-SHORE.</p></div><h4>TN-SHORE and the Blue Economy</h4><p>The <strong>TN-SHORE</strong> scheme is strategically aligned with the principles of the <strong>Blue Economy</strong>. This approach emphasizes the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth while preserving the health of marine ecosystems.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Blue Economy Definition:</strong> Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs, while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem.</p></div><p>The scheme will leverage the potential of the <strong>Blue Economy</strong> by prioritizing the restoration of critical marine habitats. This includes the revitalization of <strong>mangroves</strong>, <strong>coral reefs</strong>, and <strong>salt marshes</strong>.</p><p>These ecosystems are vital for both the <strong>marine environment</strong> and the economic well-being of <strong>coastal communities</strong>. The scheme directly contributes to achieving <strong>Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)</strong>, particularly <strong>SDG 14 (Life Below Water)</strong>.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> Both schemes highlight India's commitment to <strong>environmental conservation</strong> and <strong>sustainable development</strong>, crucial themes for <strong>GS-III Environment</strong> and <strong>GS-II Government Policies</strong>.</p></div>