NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS FOR DROUGHT RISK REDUCTION IN

BIHAR, INDIA

Singh, Vivek Kumar1: Kumar, Naveen2 & Kundu, Soumik3

Abstract
Bihar, a state located in the eastern part of India, has faced significant challenges with droughts,
affecting agriculture, water security, and livelihoods. The dependency of the region's agrarian economy
on the monsoon rains makes it particularly vulnerable to erratic weather patterns. With climate change
exacerbating the frequency and intensity of droughts, innovative and sustainable strategies are
essential to mitigate the risks. Among these, Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) offer an integrated, cost-
effective approach to drought risk reduction, leveraging the power of ecosystems to enhance resilience
and support local communities. Bihar's vulnerability to drought stems from its reliance on rain-fed
agriculture, which constitutes nearly 70% of its farming practices. The state experiences recurrent
droughts, particularly in the southern districts, where rainfall variability leads to severe water shortages.
Droughts disrupt crop cycles, reduce agricultural productivity, and strain water resources, leading to
food insecurity, loss of livelihoods, and increased rural poverty. Moreover, groundwater levels are
already under pressure from over-extraction and continue to be depleted, worsening the drought. In
response to these challenges, Nature-Based Solutions can provide sustainable alternatives to
conventional drought management strategies that often rely on engineered infrastructure.

Nature-based solutions work with and enhance natural processes to address societal challenges,
including climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and food and water security. NbS emphasize
ecosystem restoration, sustainable land management, and biodiversity conservation to enhance the
capacity of natural systems to absorb and recover from environmental shocks like droughts. These
approaches are rooted in the understanding that healthy ecosystems provide essential services such
as water retention, soil stabilization, and microclimate regulation, which can directly contribute to
mitigating drought risks.

The article suggests the following measures as a key Nature-Based Solution for Drought Risk Reduction
in Bihar.

• Watershed Management and Reforestation: Watershed management aims to restore and

conserve catchment areas to improve water infiltration and reduce runoff. In Bihar, reforesting
degraded landscapes, particularly in upland areas, can increase water retention in the soil,
replenish groundwater, and ensure water availability during dry spells. Forested watersheds
act as natural reservoirs, capturing and storing rainwater, which can be gradually released to
support agricultural activities during droughts.
• Agroforestry: Integrating trees with agricultural systems (agroforestry) offers multiple benefits
for drought resilience. Trees provide shade, reduce soil erosion, and improve water retention
in agricultural fields, thus enhancing soil moisture and reducing the need for irrigation. In Bihar,
adopting agroforestry systems with drought-tolerant species can help maintain agricultural
productivity during low rainfall while diversifying farmers' income sources.
• Wetland Restoration: Wetlands are natural sponges that absorb excess rainfall and release it
slowly during dry periods, regulating water availability. Bihar has historically had extensive
wetlands degraded or lost due to human activities. Restoring these wetlands can improve the
state's capacity to store water, recharge groundwater, and provide a buffer against drought. In

1
Dr Singh is an Adjunct Faculty Member at the Centre of Excellence in Disaster Management Department, Development
Management InsAtute (DMI), Patna, India (Email: v.singh@dmi.ac.in)
2
ICT Expert, Centre of Excellence in Disaster Management Department, Development Management InsAtute (DMI), Patna,
India (Email: naveenkr@dmi.ac.in)
3 Chief ExecuAve Officer & InternaAonal Consultant, Food and Livelihood (FnL) InnovaAons; New Delhi (Email:
soumik.fnl@gmail.com)

1
 addition, wetlands support biodiversity and provide livelihood opportunities for local
communities.
• Soil and Water Conservation Techniques: Techniques like contour bunding, check dams,
and rainwater harvesting can significantly improve water retention in arid and semi-arid regions.
These low-cost, community-based methods can be easily implemented in Bihar's drought-
prone districts. Reducing water runoff and enhancing soil moisture promotes more sustainable
agricultural practices, even in water scarcity.

For Nature-Based Solutions to be successful, active community participation and institutional support
are essential. In Bihar, engaging local communities in the planning and implementation of NbS ensures
that solutions are tailored to local ecological and socio-economic conditions. Moreover, integrating NbS
into state policies, such as the Bihar State Action Plan on Climate Change, can provide the legal and
financial frameworks to scale up these initiatives. Additionally, capacity-building programs that train
farmers, water managers, and local officials in NbS techniques will enhance the long-term sustainability
of these approaches.

Nature-based solutions offer a promising pathway to reduce drought risk in Bihar by enhancing
ecosystem services, improving water security, and building community resilience. By restoring natural
landscapes, adopting sustainable land-use practices, and integrating NbS into state-level planning,
Bihar can mitigate the impacts of drought while fostering ecological and socio-economic sustainability.
As climate change continues to heighten drought risks, NbS represent a crucial component of Bihar's
drought management strategy, providing a holistic, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for drought
risk reduction.

Introduction
Bihar in eastern India has a storied history and is often celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, ancient
civilizations, and agricultural prosperity. The state's fertile plains, nourished by the mighty Ganges River
and its tributaries, have historically supported thriving communities and diverse ecosystems (GoB,
2018). These natural advantages have fostered vibrant traditions, diverse flora and fauna, and a
resilient rural economy deeply rooted in agriculture. However, despite its natural wealth, Bihar faces
various environmental and socio-economic challenges threatening its sustainable development
trajectory (Kumar et al., 2019).
One of the most pressing issues confronting Bihar today is the recurrent occurrence of droughts, which
have increased in frequency and severity over recent decades. These droughts are not isolated
incidents but are symptomatic of broader climatic and environmental shifts affecting the region. The
monsoon, which typically delivers about 80% of Bihar's annual rainfall, has become increasingly
unpredictable and erratic, partly due to the impacts of climate change (IMD, 2020). Prolonged dry spells,
water shortages, and crop failures have become common, especially in the semi-arid southern districts
such as Gaya, Aurangabad, and Jehanabad, where agriculture relies heavily on timely monsoon rains
(Kumar et al., 2019). This variability hampers the cultivation cycle, reducing yields and threatening food
security, exacerbating rural poverty and compelling vulnerable populations to urban centres or other
states to seek livelihood opportunities (Das & Sinha, 2020).
Bihar's state of its water resources further compounds Bihar's vulnerability to drought. Over-extraction
of groundwater for irrigation, coupled with declining surface water bodies like ponds, lakes, and rivers,
has significantly impaired the region's natural capacity to buffer against drought conditions (CGWB,
2019). Bihar’s extensive groundwater extraction is driven by the inadequacy of surface irrigation
infrastructure and the need to sustain crops during dry spells, but this has led to alarming declines in
water tables, especially in regions with unregulated groundwater use (Rao & Bhattacharya, 2018).
Simultaneously, land degradation—through deforestation, soil erosion, and unsustainable farming
practices—has diminished the land’s ability to retain water and support ecological functions critical for
drought resilience (Sharma & Singh, 2020). Historically, ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and
watershed areas have played pivotal roles in maintaining hydrological cycles, supporting biodiversity,
and providing ecological services vital for local communities’ survival (Reddy & Kumar, 2018). However,
human encroachments, illegal logging, and expansion of agriculture have degraded these ecosystems,
weakening their capacity to mitigate drought impacts.
Traditional approaches to drought mitigation in Bihar have predominantly relied on infrastructural
solutions—building dams, reservoirs, and extensive canal systems to channel water and support
irrigation (GoB, 2015). While these measures have provided some relief, they often come with high

2
financial costs, environmental trade-offs, and limited sustainability. Large dams and reservoirs can
disrupt natural flow regimes, threaten downstream ecosystems, and require significant maintenance
and operational costs (Sinha & Das, 2021). Moreover, these infrastructural projects often overlook the
importance of ecosystem health and community engagement, which are crucial for building long-term
resilience to water scarcity and drought (UNEP, 2020).
In recent years, there has been growing recognition of ecosystems' critical role in climate adaptation
and disaster risk reduction. Nature-based solutions (NbS)—which involve restoring, conserving, and
sustainably managing ecosystems—offer a promising, holistic alternative or complement to
conventional infrastructure. NbS leverage natural processes such as water retention in wetlands and
forests, soil conservation through afforestation, and biodiversity support to enhance the resilience of
ecosystems and communities alike (UNEP, 2020). For instance, restoring degraded watersheds can
improve groundwater recharge, reduce surface runoff, and mitigate the severity of droughts. Likewise,
promoting agroforestry and sustainable land management practices can enhance soil moisture, reduce
erosion, and provide additional income sources for farmers (Kumar, R et al., 2021).
Adopting ecosystem-based approaches also aligns with the principles of sustainable development,
emphasizing ecological integrity, social equity, and economic viability. Such strategies are often more
cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and adaptable to local contexts than large infrastructural
projects. They also foster community participation, empower local populations, and incorporate
indigenous knowledge systems essential for effective drought management (Reddy & Kumar, 2018).

Drought Vulnerability Context in Bihar

Bihar's climate is characterized by a subtropical humid climate with seasonal monsoon rainfall, which
accounts for approximately 80% of the total annual rainfall. However, the monsoon is highly
unpredictable, often leading to irregular rainfall distribution, droughts, and floods (IMD, 2020). The state
experiences frequent dry spells, especially during the pre-monsoon months of April and May, which
precede the primary monsoon season. The erratic nature of rainfall severely affects water availability
for agricultural and domestic use.
Over-reliance on groundwater for irrigation has led to a significant decline in water tables. According to
the (CGWB, 2019), many districts in Bihar are classified as over-exploited or critical zones, indicating
unsustainable groundwater extraction. The over-dependence on groundwater depletes aquifers and
makes the state vulnerable during drought periods when surface water sources are scarce. Moreover,
the limited capacity of surface water storage infrastructure—reservoirs, tanks, and ponds—means that
Bihar cannot effectively store monsoon rainfall during dry spells, exacerbating drought impacts (GoB,
2015).
The dependence on rain-fed agriculture renders these farmers highly susceptible to rainfall variability.
Droughts lead to crop failures, reduced income, and increased indebtedness, pushing many
households into poverty. Food security is also compromised during drought periods. Crop failures,
especially paddy, maize, and pulses, lead to food shortages and nutritional deficiencies, particularly
affecting children and women (Nagarajan & Kumar, 2019). The lack of access to drought-resistant crop
varieties and modern irrigation techniques limits adaptive capacity. Marginalized communities, including
scheduled castes and tribes, are disproportionately affected because they often lack land rights,
financial resources, and social safety nets (Sinha & Das, 2021). Furthermore, Bihar's rural
infrastructure—roads, storage facilities, and irrigation systems—is inadequate, hindering timely access
to relief measures and efficient water management. The low mechanization and extension services
levels further compound farmers' vulnerability during droughts (Rao & Bhattacharya, 2017).
Environmental degradation in Bihar exacerbates drought vulnerability. Deforestation, soil erosion, and
land degradation reduce the land's natural resilience to water stress. Removing forests, especially in
the Shivalik hills and Terai regions, diminishes rainfall infiltration and groundwater recharge, intensifying
drought conditions (Sharma & Singh, 2020). Soil degradation due to improper land use and over-
cultivation decreases agricultural productivity and increases susceptibility to drought. Reduced
vegetation cover leads to higher surface runoff, lower soil moisture retention, and increased
desertification risk. These environmental issues are compounded by climate change, which is predicted
to increase the frequency and intensity of droughts in eastern India, including Bihar (MoEF & CC, 2019).
Water pollution and contamination, particularly in riverine systems like the Ganges and its tributaries,
also affect water quality and availability, further complicating drought mitigation efforts. Despite some
initiatives, Bihar’s water infrastructure remains underdeveloped. The state has limited irrigation facilities;

3
only about 20% of cultivated land is irrigated through traditional wells and canals (Bihar State Water
Policy, 2015). The lack of efficient irrigation systems means farmers rely heavily on monsoon rainfall,
heightening drought vulnerability. Moreover, existing water management institutions lack sufficient
capacity, coordination, and funding to effectively implement drought preparedness and response
strategies. The absence of robust early warning systems and contingency plans hampers timely action
during drought onset. Many drought-affected farmers do not have access to adequate financial support
or crop insurance, increasing their economic fragility (Das & Sinha, 2019).
While Bihar has formulated policies and programs aimed at drought mitigation—such as the Bihar State
Action Plan on Climate Change (BSPACC, 2014)—implementation gaps persist. Limited institutional
capacity, financial constraints, and political will hinder the effective execution of drought resilience
measures. The government has initiated water conservation campaigns, promoted drought-resistant
crops, and implemented micro-irrigation schemes. However, these initiatives often face challenges
related to community participation, awareness, and technical support. Additionally, the lack of
comprehensive data and monitoring systems restricts the ability to assess drought severity and allocate
resources efficiently.
Social factors also shape vulnerability. Marginalized communities, including Scheduled Castes and
Tribes, women, and children, experience disproportionate impacts during droughts due to limited
access to land, credit, and social safety nets (Sinha & Das, 2021). Women, in particular, bear the burden
of fetching water and managing household needs during water scarcity, affecting their health and
economic participation. Migration is another coping mechanism in drought-prone areas, leading to
seasonal or permanent displacement of families, which impacts social cohesion and community
resilience (Rao & Bhattacharya, 2017). Such migration often results in loss of livelihoods, social
disintegration, and increased vulnerability to other hazards.

Nature-based Solutions and Drought Management

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) represent an innovative and sustainable paradigm for addressing the
multifaceted challenges of drought conditions worldwide. By harnessing the intrinsic capacities of
ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, grasslands, and watersheds, NbS aim to restore, protect, and
manage natural systems to enhance water security, increase resilience, and mitigate the adverse
impacts of prolonged dry periods (IUCN, 2016). Unlike conventional infrastructure-based approaches
that often rely on engineering solutions, NbS capitalize on ecosystem services—benefits provided by
nature that support human well-being—such as water filtration, groundwater recharge, soil retention,
and flood regulation, which are particularly vital in drought-prone regions (WWAP, 2018). Restoring
wetlands, for example, functions as a natural sponge capable of absorbing excess rainfall during wet
seasons and releasing stored water during dry spells, stabilizing stream flows and groundwater levels
critical for agriculture, drinking water supplies, and ecosystem health (Liu et al., 2013). Wetlands also
serve as biodiversity hotspots, supporting a wide array of flora and fauna, thus providing co-benefits
such as habitat conservation alongside drought mitigation. Similarly, conserving and reforesting
catchment areas enhances infiltration rates, reduces surface runoff, and decreases land degradation,
collectively bolstering watersheds' resilience against drought-induced stress (FAO, 2018). Forests and
vegetation cover act as natural buffers, improving soil moisture retention and reducing the vulnerability
of rural communities to water scarcity.
In urban settings, NbS are increasingly incorporated through green infrastructure strategies such as
green roofs, permeable pavements, rain gardens, and urban parks, facilitating stormwater infiltration,
reducing runoff, and recharging groundwater aquifers (Global Water Partnership, 2017). These
measures improve urban water resilience and mitigate the urban heat island effect, exacerbating city
drought impacts by increasing temperatures and evaporation rates. Moreover, traditional water
harvesting techniques—such as check dams, contour bunds, and water harvesting ponds—are
effective, low-cost NbS that capture and store rainwater at the community level, providing reliable water
sources during dry periods and reducing dependence on external water supplies (UNEP, 2020).
Integrating these ecosystem-based approaches into water management strategies offers a cost-
effective, adaptable, and environmentally sustainable alternative to engineering solutions, often
requiring significant financial investments and long construction periods (Liu et al., 2013).
Beyond their direct hydrological benefits, NbS contributes to climate change mitigation and biodiversity
conservation, creating a resilient and multifunctional landscape that supports ecological and socio-
economic systems. Restoring ecosystems enhances their capacity to adapt to changing climate
patterns, including increased frequency and severity of droughts associated with global warming. For

4
instance, reforestation and afforestation projects improve carbon sequestration while simultaneously
stabilizing soil and conserving water resources, thereby reducing vulnerability to drought (WWF, 2018).
Ecosystem restoration projects, such as those implemented on China’s Loess Plateau, demonstrate
how integrated land management—combining terracing, tree planting, and grassland rehabilitation—
can significantly improve soil stability, increase groundwater recharge, and boost agricultural
productivity even in arid environments (Liu et al., 2013). Similarly, wetland conservation efforts, like
those in the Pantanal basin in Brazil, serve as natural reservoirs that buffer against drought impacts,
support local livelihoods, and preserve biodiversity (WWF, 2018). These case studies underscore
adopting a holistic, ecosystem-based approach that aligns ecological restoration with social and
economic development goals.

Figure 1: Process for execu0ng NbS projects. Adopted from (Kumar P et al., 2021)

To initiate a Nature-based Solutions (NbS) project effectively, it is essential to begin with a

comprehensive understanding of the local ecological, social, and economic contexts, as emphasized
by (Kumar, Prashant et. al, 2021). The process involves engaging stakeholders early to ensure their
needs, knowledge, and aspirations are integrated into project planning, fostering ownership and
support. Conducting thorough assessments of existing natural assets and identifying ecosystem
services that can be leveraged is crucial for setting realistic and impactful objectives. Additionally,
establishing clear goals aligned with sustainability and resilience, securing appropriate funding, and
developing a (Placeholder2)multidisciplinary team to oversee implementation are vital steps. Building a
flexible framework for adaptive management ensures the project remains responsive to ecological
feedback and stakeholder inputs throughout its lifecycle, ultimately enhancing its effectiveness and
longevity.

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However, implementing NbS for drought mitigation faces several challenges that must be addressed to
realize their full potential. One key obstacle is the limited awareness and understanding of ecosystem
dynamics and the benefits of NbS among policymakers, stakeholders, and local communities (IUCN,
2016). This knowledge gap can hinder the design and implementation of effective interventions. Land
tenure issues, competing land-use interests, and policy barriers often restrict large-scale ecosystem
restoration efforts. Funding constraints are also significant, especially in developing countries where
resources for environmental initiatives are limited, and the long timeframes needed to observe tangible
benefits may discourage investment (FAO, 2018).
Furthermore, ecosystem-based solutions require sustained management, monitoring, and adaptive
strategies to account for climate variability and evolving socio-economic conditions. The complexity of
ecosystems and the need for multidisciplinary approaches can pose challenges for the measurement,
evaluation, and scaling of NbS projects. Overcoming these barriers necessitates integrated policy
frameworks that promote cross-sector collaboration, community engagement, and innovative financing
mechanisms such as payments for ecosystem services, green bonds, and climate funds (Global Water
Partnership, 2017).
Despite these challenges, numerous successful case studies highlight the transformative potential of
NbS in drought-prone regions. The ecological restoration of China’s Loess Plateau exemplifies how
integrated land management can reduce soil erosion by over 90%, increase groundwater recharge, and
improve local livelihoods through sustainable agriculture and reforestation (Liu et al., 2013). The
wetland restoration projects in the Pantanal region have conserved biodiversity and provided vital water
storage capacity, enhancing resilience during drought periods (WWF, 2018). Urban centres like
Melbourne, Australia, have incorporated green infrastructure into city planning, establishing green roofs,
parks, and rain gardens that manage stormwater, lower urban temperatures, and improve water security
(FAO, 2018). These examples demonstrate that NbS can be tailored to local contexts and integrated
into broader climate adaptation and water management strategies, fostering resilience and
sustainability.

Strategic NbS Interventions for Drought Management in Bihar

Strategic NbS interventions for drought management in Bihar include watershed management and
reforestation, agroforestry systems, wetland restoration, soil and water conservation techniques, and
community engagement with institutional support. Each plays a vital role in enhancing water availability,
restoring ecosystems, and building resilience against drought impacts. (Table 1)
1. Watershed Management and Reforestation involves restoring degraded upland areas by
planting trees and implementing soil conservation practices. This helps stabilize soil, increase
water infiltration, and recharge groundwater, reducing the severity and frequency of droughts
and floods. Maintaining healthy forests improves water retention, supporting ecosystems and
communities.
2. Agroforestry Systems integrate drought-tolerant trees with crops, providing shade and
reducing soil erosion. These trees help retain soil moisture, diversify farmers' income sources,
and improve resilience to water shortages. It promotes sustainable farming practices that adapt
better to dry conditions.
3. Wetland Restoration focuses on rehabilitating degraded wetlands, which act as natural water
reservoirs. Restored wetlands store excess rainwater during monsoon seasons and release it
gradually during dry periods. They also support biodiversity and offer livelihood opportunities
such as fishing and eco-tourism, contributing to ecological and economic stability.
4. Soil and Water Conservation Techniques like contour bunding, check dams, rainwater
harvesting, and micro-irrigation help conserve water and prevent soil erosion. These practices
increase soil moisture, reduce runoff, and improve crop yields during droughts, directly
supporting agricultural productivity and resilience.
5. Community Engagement and Institutional Support emphasize involving local communities
in planning, implementing, and maintaining NbS interventions. Capacity building, participatory
decision-making, and resource mobilization ensure sustainability. Strong institutions provide
governance and support, fostering local ownership and long-term success of drought
management strategies.
Together, these interventions create an integrated approach that enhances ecosystem health and
community resilience, effectively mitigating the impacts of drought in Bihar.

6
Table 1: Ra2onal, Implementa2on Strategies and Expected Benefits of NbS in Bihar

NbS intervention Rational Implementation Strategies Expected Benefits

• Degraded upland catchments in Bihar fail to retain rainfall, • Catchment Restoration • Increased soil moisture and
Watershed leading to rapid runoff and minimal groundwater • Ecosystem-Based Management groundwater recharge.
Management and replenishment. •
• Soil Conservation Measures Reduced flood and drought cycles.
Reforestation • Forests and vegetation cover improve soil stability, • Community Participation • Improved microclimates and
increase water retention, and slow water movement. biodiversity conservation.
• Monitoring & Evaluation

• Intensive reliance on mono-cropping and traditional • Selection of Drought-Tolerant Species • Enhanced soil moisture and reduced
Agroforestry practices leaves farms vulnerable to water stress. • Design of Agroforestry Models irrigation needs.
Systems • Trees provide shade, reduce soil erosion, improve • Diversification of income.
• Capacity Building
microclimate, and maintain soil moisture. • Incentives and Support • Improved carbon sequestration and
• Research & Demonstration biodiversity.

• Historically, Bihar had extensive wetlands degraded or • Restoration of Degraded Wetlands • Increased water storage capacity.
Wetland converted for agriculture, reducing natural water storage. • Community-Based Management • Groundwater recharge.
Restoration • Restored wetlands can absorb excess rainfall and slowly • Integration with Agriculture • Biodiversity conservation and
release water during dry periods. • Monitoring & Maintenance livelihoods through fishing, grazing, and
eco-tourism.

• Prevent soil erosion and land degradation to maintain • Contour Bunding • Increased soil moisture levels.
Soil and Water ecosystem stability • Check Dams • Reduced water runoff and soil erosion.
Conservation • Enhance water retention and water quality • Rainwater Harvesting • Improved crop yields during drought
Techniques
• Promote biodiversity and habitat protection through stable • Micro-Irrigation years.
soil and water conditions. • Mulching and Cover Crops
• Support climate resilience by improving landscape
resilience and reducing disaster risk.
• Local communities are central to the success of NbS. • Participatory Planning • Enhanced effectiveness and long-term
Community • Their traditional knowledge, social cohesion, and • Capacity Building sustainability
Engagement and • Increased community ownership and
livelihoods influence project outcomes. • Institutional Frameworks
Institutional Support stewardship
• Financial Incentives
• Monitoring & Feedback • Access to resources, funding, and policy
support

Source: Based on the literature review conducted by the author.

7
Policy and Institutional Frameworks for NbS in Bihar
The policy and institutional frameworks for Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in Bihar are fundamental to
ensuring their successful adoption and sustainability. Integrating NbS strategies into existing policies,
such as the Bihar State Action Plan on Climate Change, can facilitate access to funding, enhance
coordination among various stakeholders, and streamline the implementation process (BSPACC,
2014). Establishing dedicated institutional units focused on ecosystem-based management can
improve accountability, provide specialized oversight, and foster a coordinated approach across
different sectors. Strengthening community participation is also crucial; empowering local communities
through participatory governance mechanisms ensures that interventions are relevant, locally accepted,
and sustainable over the long term. Incorporating traditional ecological knowledge into planning and
implementation can further enhance the effectiveness and cultural appropriateness of NbS initiatives.
Financing and incentives are vital to mobilize resources; innovative mechanisms such as Payments for
Ecosystem Services (PES), micro-finance schemes, and climate-focused funds can unlock financial
support while fostering public-private partnerships can help scale successful models rapidly.
Additionally, establishing comprehensive monitoring and evaluation systems is essential; leveraging
technologies like remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and community-based
monitoring tools allows for real-time progress tracking, impact assessment, and adaptive management.
These integrated policy and institutional strategies are critical to building resilient ecosystems,
supporting climate adaptation, and promoting sustainable development in Bihar through effective NbS
implementation.

Concluding Remark
In light of the above insights, it becomes imperative for Bihar to shift towards integrating ecosystem-
based solutions into its drought mitigation framework. Restoring ecological balance, improving water
security, and strengthening community resilience through Nature-Based Solutions can help Bihar adapt
more effectively to the mounting challenges posed by climate change. Nature-based Solutions offer a
promising, sustainable, and multifunctional approach to mitigating drought impacts and enhancing
water resilience. By restoring and conserving ecosystems, promoting sustainable land use, and
harnessing natural hydrological processes, NbS provides long-term benefits supporting ecological
integrity, climate resilience, and socio-economic development. At the same time, challenges related to
policy, funding, and knowledge gaps remain; ongoing research, innovative financing, and stakeholder
engagement are essential to scale up and mainstream NbS in national and regional drought
management strategies.

Implementing a comprehensive suite of NbS interventions—grounded in ecological restoration,

sustainable land management, and local participation—can significantly mitigate drought impacts in
Bihar. These solutions conserve and restore natural ecosystems and promote socio-economic
resilience, ensuring communities can sustainably adapt to climate variability. A multi-stakeholder
approach involving government agencies, local communities, researchers, and development partners
is essential for Bihar's successful, scalable, and long-term drought management.

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