Redefining Grasslands: India’s New Policy Framework for Open Natural Ecosystems

At the UNCCD COP17 held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on August 17, 2026, India introduced its inaugural policy guide dedicated to Grasslands and Other Open Natural Ecosystems (ONEs). This strategic document represents a significant departure from colonial-era land classification systems that historically categorized these biodiversity-rich landscapes as 'wastelands' or 'unproductive land.' By formally recognizing ONEs as distinct, high-value ecological assets, the policy aims to integrate these regions into national conservation and climate mitigation strategies. For decades, the 'wasteland' label has facilitated the diversion of grasslands for industrial projects, afforestation drives, and agricultural expansion, often leading to the degradation of unique flora and fauna adapted to these open habitats. The new guide emphasizes that grasslands are not merely 'empty' spaces but are critical carbon sinks, essential for groundwater recharge, and vital for the livelihoods of pastoralist communities. By repositioning these ecosystems, the government acknowledges their role in climate resilience, particularly in mitigating the impacts of desertification and land degradation—a core focus of the UNCCD mandate.