June 17 is annually observed as World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought. This day aims to generate awareness about sustainable development and the welfare of people. The day also aims at finding achievable solutions for combating desertification that can be practiced by the majority of the countries and individuals all over the world.

It was in December 1994 that the UN General Assembly acknowledged this day to spread awareness about the cooperation required to combat desertification and drought. The UN General Assembly is also making efforts to bring attention to the association between consumption and land.

This year, however, due to the ongoing pandemic condition, no physical events will be conducted regarding the day in any part of the world. The environment enthusiasts have been motivating people to amplify the day’s importance through social media and word of mouth.  The theme for this year's World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is "Restoration. Land, Recovery. We build back better with healthy land".

India has set a target of restoring 2.6 crore hectares of degraded land by 2030. The South Asian giant also assists developing countries to develop land restoration strategies. 

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