Rameshwaram Island, nestled in the southeastern part of India within the Ramanathapuram District, is characterized by its unique coastal ecosystem, prominently featuring sand dunes. These natural formations, created by the relentless action of wind and tidal forces, play a vital role in the environmental health and sustainability of the island. 

Sand dunes act as natural barriers against saline intrusion, protecting freshwater aquifers from contamination. Their presence is critical for replenishing  groundwater, especially during the monsoon season when rainfall percolates through the porous sandy substrate. This groundwater replenishment is essential, given that Rameshwaram faces challenges related to freshwater availability due to its island status and increasing demands from population growth and agricultural practices.

However, the phenomenon of sand mining poses a significant threat to the stability and integrity of these sand dunes. Unregulated extraction of sand compromises their structure, leading to erosion and reducing their capacity to function as natural water catchments. The loss of these dunes can result in diminished groundwater recharge, exacerbating water scarcity issues on the island. Thus, the conservation of sand dunes is crucial not only for maintaining the natural landscape of Rameshwaram but also for ensuring a sustainable supply of groundwater. Efforts to regulate sand mining activities and promote alternative livelihoods can help protect these vital ecosystems, safeguarding the island's water resources and enhancing resilience to climate change impacts. In conclusion, recognizing the ecological importance of sand dunes and taking proactive measures for their conservation is essential for the long-term sustainability of Rameshwaram Island. 

Arulagam aims to address mining and biodiversity loss and the role of socio-economic factors in the conservation issue (i) through baseline surveys to understand the extent of damage, actors and the social dynamics that allow or mitigate the sand mining activity will help in understanding the problem at hand better (ii) through a cooperative community programme that works towards regulating sand mining by identifying and involving local environmental champions and by establishing a cooperative body of the likes of “Sand Dune Saviours Committee". (iv) through restoration of sanddune biodiversity by setting up community run nurseries and planting creepers,shrubs and trees to support the sand dune ecology.