Environment · 26 Jul 2026

Sundarbans mangrove bheries encroachment

With reference to the Sundarbans mangrove ecosystem, consider the following statements:

  1. West Bengal holds the largest share of India's total mangrove cover.
  2. Bheries are shallow, embanked ponds used for brackish-water aquaculture, typically found in West Bengal's deltaic regions.
  3. The MISHTI scheme is a central government scheme that funds mangrove restoration along India's coastline.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A1 only
B2 and 3 only
C1, 2 and 3
D1 and 3 only
This question is based on: Will Restore Mangroves Lost To Encroachments, Says West Bengal Minister
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About this question

Why in news

West Bengal's Environment Minister pledged to restore Sundarbans mangroves lost to illegal bheries after an NGO report found over 600 hectares encroached across just 10 surveyed sites.

Why for UPSC

UPSC often tests static facts (state-wise mangrove cover, scheme names) anchored to a current event, checking whether aspirants retained specific figures and terminology from the article rather than general impressions.

Prelims summary

West Bengal holds India's largest share of mangrove cover (42.45%); bheries are aquaculture ponds encroaching on Sundarbans mangroves; MISHTI is the central scheme funding mangrove restoration.

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