In the Sundarbans, West Bengal, HCI initiated mangrove restoration through a Miyawaki pilot planting of 1,000 trees and formed a partnership with Purbasha, led by Umashankar Mondal. A local geography teacher inspired to act after Cyclone Aila, he has built a powerful grassroots movement—the 500-member women-led “Mangrove Army.” This community-led initiative plants and protects mangroves along vulnerable coastlines, creating a natural shield against cyclones, tidal surges, and erosion while strengthening local livelihoods and empowering women.

Mangroves in the Sundarbans are critical to climate resilience, acting as natural barriers that reduce storm impacts, prevent coastal erosion, support biodiversity, and sequester significant amounts of carbon. HCI also supported community welfare by funding sarees for women during Durga Puja.

HCI further played a catalytic role by bringing Ignited Minds Organization (IMO) to the Sundarbans and connecting them with Purbasha for mangrove restoration. This collaboration has evolved into an ambitious project to plant 100,000 mangrove trees. HCI also produced a documentary highlighting the Sundarbans ecosystem and the work of the “Mangrove Man,” helping raise awareness and support for restoration efforts.

In collaboration with Climate Foundation, HCI is planning marine permaculture initiatives for seaweed and kelp cultivation, linking ecosystem restoration with sustainable blue economy opportunities.