World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought Celebrated Across WDC–PMKSY 2.0 Project Areas in the Country

The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought was celebrated across WDC–PMKSY 2.0 project areas in India, highlighting the importance of sustainable land management. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Papers 1 and 3, as it addresses environmental and economic challenges. Last Updated: 18-06-2026

Key Facts About World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

• 1994: The United Nations General Assembly declared June 17 as the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought.
• UNCCD: The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification is the only legally binding international agreement linking environmental conservation and sustainable land management.
• Objective: To raise awareness about land degradation and promote Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN).
• Theme for 2026: “Rangelands: Recognize. Respect. Restore.”
• 25%: Pastoral communities manage over 25% of the world's land, crucial for food security and climate resilience.
• 54%: Rangelands cover 54% of the Earth's land surface, contributing 16% to global food production.

India's Strategic Approach to Land Management

The celebration of this day underscores India's commitment to combating desertification, aligning with national goals of sustainable development and ecological balance. India's strategic initiatives, such as the WDC-PMKSY 2.0, aim to enhance agricultural productivity and groundwater recharge, crucial for economic growth and rural livelihoods.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 1: Geography – Landforms and their evolution, environmental challenges.
• GS Paper 3: Environment – Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
• Prelims: Questions on UNCCD, land degradation statistics, and related global initiatives.
• Mains: Analytical themes on sustainable land management and its socio-economic impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought? Observed on June 17, it commemorates the adoption of the UNCCD and promotes awareness about land degradation and sustainable land management.
• What is Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN)? LDN refers to a state where the quantity and quality of land resources remain stable or improve through restoration and conservation measures.
• What is the significance of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP) 2026? IYRP 2026 highlights the role of pastoral communities in managing over 25% of the world's land and supporting biodiversity conservation.
• What is WDC-PMKSY 2.0? It is a watershed development programme implemented by the Department of Land Resources to restore degraded lands and improve rural livelihoods.
• What is the extent of land degradation in India? About 29.7% of India's Total Geographic Area is affected by land degradation and desertification processes.