{"id":3786,"date":"2025-06-17T13:00:48","date_gmt":"2025-06-17T07:30:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=3786"},"modified":"2025-10-16T17:28:32","modified_gmt":"2025-10-16T11:58:32","slug":"world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/","title":{"rendered":"World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025: Theme, Causes, and India\u2019s Role"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<label class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/label>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #127abf;color:#127abf\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #127abf;color:#127abf\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#World_Day_to_Combat_Desertification_and_Drought_2025\" >World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#World_Day_to_Combat_Desertification_and_Drought_2025_Theme\" >World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025 Theme<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#What_is_Desertification\" >What is Desertification?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#Difference_Between_Desertification_and_Drought\" >Difference Between Desertification and Drought<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#World_Day_to_Combat_Desertification_and_Drought_Causes_of_Desertification\" >World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought  Causes of Desertification<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#Land_Desertification_in_India\" >Land Desertification in India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#Land_Desertification_Initiative_in_India\" >Land Desertification Initiative in India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#What_Is_the_Initiative_of_Govt_of_India_to_Combat_Desertification\" >What Is the Initiative of Govt of India to Combat Desertification?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#What_Are_the_Steps_Taken_to_Control_Land_Degradation_in_India\" >What Are the Steps Taken to Control Land Degradation in India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#What_Are_the_Land_Degradation_Schemes_in_India\" >What Are the Land Degradation Schemes in India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#What_Is_the_Status_of_Drought_in_India\" >What Is the Status of Drought in India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought\/#World_Day_to_Combat_Desertification_and_Drought_2025_FAQs\" >World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025 FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b><i>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/i><\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is observed every year on <\/span><b>June 17<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to raise global awareness about the urgent issues of land degradation and water scarcity. This international day highlights the growing threat of desertification and how it affects food security, livelihoods, climate, and ecosystems. The 2025 observance of the <\/span><b><i>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/i><\/b> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">emphasizes restoring degraded land and creating long-term opportunities for people and nature.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3789\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-14-161708.png?resize=301%2C301&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"301\" height=\"301\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-14-161708.png?w=301&amp;ssl=1 301w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-14-161708.png?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 301px) 100vw, 301px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b>Also Read: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/list-of-national-and-international-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>National and International Days 2025<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With over <\/span><b>40% of the world\u2019s land already degraded,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the need to act is more pressing than ever. Desertification and drought are not just environmental concerns\u2014they are deeply connected to economic stability, public health, and sustainable development. Governments, organizations, and communities worldwide come together on this day to share solutions, support innovation, and promote sustainable land management. It\u2019s a powerful reminder that healthy land means a healthier future for all.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"World_Day_to_Combat_Desertification_and_Drought_2025\"><\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Observed every year on <\/span><b>June 17<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> raises awareness of the rising threats of desertification, land degradation, and drought (DLDD). In 2025, the day is themed <\/span><b>\u201cRestore the land. Unlock the opportunities.\u201d<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The goal is to highlight the power of land restoration to create jobs, ensure food and water security, and build economic resilience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Also Read:<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=3479&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <b>World Food Safety Day<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This year, the global celebration is hosted by <\/span><b>Colombia<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, following previous hosts like Germany, USA, Spain, and Costa Rica. Governments, organizations, and communities around the world are organizing events to mark this crucial day.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"World_Day_to_Combat_Desertification_and_Drought_2025_Theme\"><\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025 Theme<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 2025 theme, <\/span><b>\u201cRestore the land. Unlock the opportunities,\u201d<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> underlines how a restored landscape can transform the economy, environment, and society. With a mission to <\/span><b>restore 1.5 billion hectares of land by 2030<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, this year\u2019s <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> also aims to build a <\/span><b>trillion-dollar land restoration economy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. For every dollar invested in land restoration, there\u2019s a return of <\/span><b>USD 7\u201330<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, proving that land revival isn\u2019t just environmentally smart\u2014it\u2019s economically wise.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Also Read: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/important-days-in-june-2025\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">List of Important Days in June 2025<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-3791\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-14-161714.png?resize=209%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"209\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-14-161714.png?resize=209%2C300&amp;ssl=1 209w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-14-161714.png?w=312&amp;ssl=1 312w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 209px) 100vw, 209px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b>Also Read:<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=3527&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <b>World Environment Day<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Desertification\"><\/span><b>What is Desertification?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Desertification<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is the <\/span><b>degradation of fertile land<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas caused by <\/span><b>human activities and climate change<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It\u2019s not about deserts growing\u2014rather, it\u2019s about once-productive lands losing their ability to support crops, forests, and livelihoods.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This environmental crisis impacts over <\/span><b>3 billion people worldwide<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, most of whom depend on the land for survival. <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> spotlights the need to reverse this alarming trend.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Difference_Between_Desertification_and_Drought\"><\/span><b>Difference Between Desertification and Drought<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While often linked, <\/span><b>desertification<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are different:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Desertification<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is <\/span><b>long-term degradation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of land.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a <\/span><b>temporary lack of water<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> caused by natural climate variability.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Also Read:<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=3706&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <b>World Day Against Child Labor<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, they are deeply interconnected. Desertified land becomes more vulnerable to drought, and repeated droughts accelerate land degradation. That\u2019s why the <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> addresses both challenges together.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"World_Day_to_Combat_Desertification_and_Drought_Causes_of_Desertification\"><\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought <\/b> <b>Causes of Desertification<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Several factors contribute to desertification:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Overgrazing<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Deforestation<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Unsustainable farming<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Climate change<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Water mismanagement<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Human activity is a key driver. The decisions we make daily\u2014what we eat, wear, consume\u2014directly impact the health of our land. The <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> encourages everyone to be part of the solution.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Land_Desertification_in_India\"><\/span><b>Land Desertification in India<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India is among the countries severely affected by land degradation. Over <\/span><b>29% of India\u2019s land<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (96 million hectares) is degraded. States like <\/span><b>Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are among the worst-hit. This land degradation threatens agriculture, food security, and water resources for millions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a crucial opportunity for India to spotlight its efforts and challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Land_Desertification_Initiative_in_India\"><\/span><b>Land Desertification Initiative in India<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To tackle this crisis, India has taken several steps:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hosting COP14 of the UNCCD in 2019<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Launching the <\/span><b>Bonn Challenge<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Participating in the <\/span><b>Great Green Wall initiative<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Promoting <\/span><b>Agroforestry<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>water conservation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>sustainable agriculture<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These initiatives align with the spirit of the <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, aiming to build a sustainable land management model.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-5575\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-107-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-5575 ml-slider has-dots-nav ms-theme-default-base\" role=\"region\" aria-label=\"New Slideshow\" data-height=\"300\" data-width=\"700\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_5575\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_5575\">\n            <ul aria-live='off' class='slides'>\n                <li style=\"display: block; 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width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5581 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"web-site-banner-toppers-book.-400x180-1-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/upsc-cse-books\/toppers-handwritten-upsc-pyq-4-books\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/web-site-banner-toppers-book.-400x180-1-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5581 msDefaultImage\" title=\"web site banner toppers book. 400x180\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Initiative_of_Govt_of_India_to_Combat_Desertification\"><\/span><b>What Is the Initiative of Govt of India to Combat Desertification?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India&#8217;s government has launched key programs to combat land degradation:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>National Action Programme to Combat Desertification (NAPCD)<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Soil Health Card Scheme<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>National Watershed Development Project<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Faster implementation of afforestation schemes<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These efforts directly contribute to the goals of the <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, particularly in reversing land degradation and enhancing climate resilience.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Steps_Taken_to_Control_Land_Degradation_in_India\"><\/span><b>What Are the Steps Taken to Control Land Degradation in India?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India is using a <\/span><b>multi-pronged strategy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Watershed management<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Drought-prone area programs<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Contour bunding and check dams<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sustainable irrigation practices<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The emphasis is on <\/span><b>integrated land and water management<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. On the <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, these steps are showcased as global examples of sustainable land stewardship.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Land_Degradation_Schemes_in_India\"><\/span><b>What Are the Land Degradation Schemes in India?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major schemes addressing land degradation include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Integrated Watershed Management Programme<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Green India Mission<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Rural Employment Guarantee Schemes (MGNREGS)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 which support afforestation and water harvesting<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These schemes reflect India\u2019s commitment to the goals of the <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Status_of_Drought_in_India\"><\/span><b>What Is the Status of Drought in India?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India experiences frequent droughts, especially in central, western, and southern states. Climate change is making these droughts more <\/span><b>erratic and intense<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. With 68% of India\u2019s cultivable land depending on the monsoon, any delay or failure severely impacts <\/span><b>farmers and food security<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such issues are brought to global attention, urging stronger drought preparedness and climate action.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><b>Conclusion<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is more than a day, it\u2019s a movement. With the 2025 theme, <\/span><b>\u201cRestore the land. Unlock the opportunities,\u201d<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the world is reminded of the enormous benefits of land restoration. From creating jobs and ensuring food security to combating climate change and fostering peace, land is at the heart of sustainable development.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now is the time to act. Through shared responsibility, smarter policies, and global solidarity, we can turn degraded lands into thriving ecosystems. The <\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is our call to protect the planet\u2019s most precious infrastructure of our land.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Are you preparing for UPSC 2026?<\/i><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/prelims\/prelims-samadhaan-mentorship-2025?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=home_page&amp;utm_campaign=course\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <b><i>Join IAShub&#8217;s UPSC coaching batches<\/i><\/b><\/a><b><i> to boost your preparation. Enroll now!<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"World_Day_to_Combat_Desertification_and_Drought_2025_FAQs\"><\/span><b>World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025 FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<style>#sp-ea-3788 .spcollapsing { height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition-property: height;transition-duration: 300ms;}#sp-ea-3788{ position: relative; }#sp-ea-3788 .ea-card{ opacity: 0;}#eap-preloader-3788{ position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0; height: 100%;width: 100%; text-align: center;display: flex; align-items: center;justify-content: center;}#sp-ea-3788.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {margin-bottom: 10px; border: 1px solid #e2e2e2; }#sp-ea-3788.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a {color: #444;}#sp-ea-3788.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.sp-collapse>.ea-body {background: #fff; color: #444;}#sp-ea-3788.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {background: #eee;}#sp-ea-3788.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a .ea-expand-icon { float: left; color: #444;font-size: 16px;}.sp-ea-one.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a {\r\n  padding: 7px;\r\n  background: #fff;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a {\r\n  font-size: 1rem;\r\n}\r\n.sp-ea-one.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a .ea-expand-icon {\r\n  font-size: 1rem;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a .ea-expand-icon {\r\n  margin-right: 0px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single{\r\n background: #fff;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.ea-expand a{\r\n  background: #cfe2ff !important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion{\r\n  margin-bottom: 1rem;\r\n  margin-top: 1rem;\r\n}<\/style><div id=\"sp_easy_accordion-1749897640\"><div id=\"sp-ea-3788\" class=\"sp-ea-one sp-easy-accordion\" data-ea-active=\"ea-click\" data-ea-mode=\"vertical\" data-preloader=\"1\" data-scroll-active-item=\"1\" data-offset-to-scroll=\"0\"><div id=\"eap-preloader-3788\" class=\"accordion-preloader\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/plugins\/easy-accordion-free\/public\/assets\/ea_loader.svg\" alt=\"Loader image\"\/><\/div><div class=\"ea-card ea-expand sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-37880\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse37880\" aria-controls=\"collapse37880\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"true\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-minus\"><\/i> What is the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse collapsed show\" id=\"collapse37880\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-3788\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-37880\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It is observed on June 17 each year to raise global awareness about land degradation, drought, and the need for sustainable land use. It encourages global action to combat desertification and restore ecosystems.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-37881\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse37881\" aria-controls=\"collapse37881\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What is the theme of World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse37881\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-3788\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-37881\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The 2025 theme is \u201cRestore the land. Unlock the opportunities.\u201d It highlights how restoring degraded land can boost economies, create jobs, and ensure food and water security.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-37882\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse37882\" aria-controls=\"collapse37882\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What causes desertification?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse37882\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-3788\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-37882\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Desertification is caused by overgrazing, deforestation, unsustainable farming, water mismanagement, and climate change. Human activities are the primary contributors.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-37883\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse37883\" aria-controls=\"collapse37883\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> How is India addressing land desertification?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse37883\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-3788\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-37883\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">India has launched initiatives like the National Action Programme to Combat Desertification, Soil Health Card Scheme, Green India Mission, and various watershed and afforestation projects.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-37884\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse37884\" aria-controls=\"collapse37884\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What is the difference between desertification and drought?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse37884\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-3788\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-37884\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Desertification is long-term land degradation due to human and natural causes. Drought is a short-term water shortage. Both are linked but differ in duration and impact.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Know About World Day To Combat Desertification And Drought 2025 Observed On June 17. Learn Its Theme \u201cRestore The Land. Unlock The Opportunities,\u201d Key Initiatives, Causes, India\u2019s Response, And Global Actions To Tackle Land Degradation And Water Scarcity.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":3807,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3786","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3786","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3786"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3786\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6051,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3786\/revisions\/6051"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3807"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3786"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3786"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3786"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}