SAIME model (Aquaculture model) of Sundarbans wins FAO recognition

Syllabus: GS3/Environment/Economy

In News

• The Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME) model  received Global Technical Recognition from the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). 

Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME) model

• It is developed by the Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS) in West Bengal’s Sundarbans.
• It  promotes ecosystem-based, climate-adaptive aquaculture by integrating 5%–30% mangrove coverage in shrimp ponds. 
• It is implemented across 29.84 hectares by 42 farmers and it has doubled net profits through reduced production costs. 

Importance 

• It enhances coastal resilience, supports sustainable livelihoods, promotes chemical-free shrimp farming, and aids carbon sequestration and climate action in the context of global sea-level rise.
• It gains importance amid concerns over land-use changes from conventional shrimp farming.

Sundarbans ecosystem

• It is one of the largest mangrove forests globally.
• It lies on the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna rivers on the Bay of Bengal. 
• It is adjacent to the border of India’s Sundarbans World Heritage site inscribed in 1987. 

 Ecological and Strategic Importance

• Biodiversity Reservoir: It is known for its wide range of fauna, including 260 bird species, the Bengal tiger and other threatened species such as the estuarine crocodile and the Indian python.
• Climate Shield: Its dense mangrove cover acts as a natural barrier against cyclones, storm surges, and coastal erosion, protecting millions of lives and livelihoods.
• Carbon Sink: Mangroves sequester significant amounts of carbon, contributing to global climate mitigation efforts.
• Livelihoods and Culture: The region sustains millions through fishing, honey collection, and eco-tourism, while preserving indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage.

Emerging Threats

• According to the IUCN World Heritage Outlook 4 (2025), the Sundarbans National Park’s conservation status has deteriorated from “Good with Some Concerns” to “Significant Concerns”.
• Climate Change: Rising sea levels and frequent storm surges are reducing mangrove diversity and accelerating habitat loss.
• Salinity and Pollution: Heavy metal contamination and increasing salinity are degrading water quality and soil health.
• Unsustainable Resource Extraction: Overfishing, illegal logging, and land-use changes are disrupting ecological balance.
• Anthropogenic Pressures: Encroachment, infrastructure development, and waste disposal are fragmenting habitats even within protected zones.

Suggestions and Way Forward 

• The Sundarbans is vital for climate resilience, biodiversity, and local livelihoods therefore, It is essential to enhance ecological monitoring and track emerging threats like pathogens across borders to protect the Sundarbans.
• Mangrove restoration must be integrated into national climate adaptation and disaster resilience plans. 
• Sustainable livelihood models such as SAIME should be scaled to balance conservation with economic needs.
• Strengthening India-Bangladesh cooperation is vital for joint ecosystem management and data sharing. 
• Fostering eco-literacy and public engagement will build a culture of conservation and long-term stewardship.

Source :TH