Answer: 

Mangroves, dense salt-tolerant forests found along tropical and subtropical coastlines. Covering approximately 4,740 square kilometers, they are a unique ecosystem which offer ecological as well as economic utility for coastal areas.

Significance of mangroves for coastal ecology

• Rich biodiversity: Mangroves provide a nutrient-rich breeding ground for numerous species that thrive above and below the waterline. E.g., famed Bengal tiger is found in Sundarbans which is a mangrove forest.
• Natural Coastal protection: The sturdy root systems of mangrove help form a natural barrier against violent storm surges and tsunami. They perform a protective role for communities at risk from coastal erosion and severe weather events.
• Carbon Sequestration: Mangroves are unparalleled in their capacity for carbon sequestration. E.g, They store 3-5 times more carbon in the equivalent area than tropical forest.
• Ecosystem services: Mangroves help to maintain water quality by the uptake of pollutants and cycling of nutrients.

Significance of mangroves for coastal economy

• Medicinal Value: Plant extracts are collected by locals for their medicinal qualities. E.g., Anti-bacterial traditional medicines.
• Livelihood support: The leaves of mangrove trees are often used for animal fodder. Mangroves are also a source for forest produce like wax, honey etc.
• The forest waters provide local fishermen with a rich supply of fish, crabs and shellfish to sell for income. 
• For example, Nearly 80% of the global fish catch relies on mangrove forests.
• Promote ecotourism: As they are located near to coral reefs and sandy beaches, the forests provide a rich environment for activities like sports fishing, kayaking and birdwatching tours.
• Wood: Mangrove trees are a reliable source of wood for construction which is prized for its hardy resistance to rot and insects. The wood is also harvested commercially for pulp and charcoal.

As per researchers at IISc, India has lost 40% of its mangrove area in the last century. 

Factors causing alarming loss of mangrove cover:

• Coastal Development: Rapid urbanization, industrialization, and infrastructure projects encroach upon mangrove areas, leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. 
• Agriculture: Conversion to agriculture, such as biofuel plantations etc. is a major contributor to loss of mangroves. 
• Nutrients, pesticides, and other toxic chemicals from agricultural runoff cause damage to mangroves.
• Pollution: Urban runoff, sewage, and industrial waste ends up in the mangroves polluting them.
• For example, Plastic and other solid wastes cause stress to mangroves by suffocating aerial roots and inhibiting new growth.
• Aquaculture expansion: Pressure from coastal fishing is causing depletion of mangroves. 
• 38% of global mangrove loss has resulted from clearing for shrimp culture.
• Climate change: Mangroves are very sensitive to changes in oceanic surface properties and sea level rise, resulting from climate change.

Preserving India's mangrove ecosystems is essential for biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. Awareness generation, regular monitoring, mangrove afforestation and livelihood support for communities

Living near mangroves can help reduce anthropogenic pressure on mangroves. 

Further, collaboration with locals, coastal industries and global organizations like UNEP, Global Alliance for Mangroves should be effectively pursued.