From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: IUCN Status of Crocodiles of India
Mains level: Crocodile Conservation Project
Why in the news?
The successful Crocodile Conservation Project in Bhitarkanika National Park is escalating the human-crocodile conflicts affecting local communities.
About the Crocodile Conservation Project
- Launch and Objective: The Crocodile Conservation Project was launched in 1975 in Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha. The main objective was to protect the crocodiles’ natural habitat and revive the population through captive breeding due to the low survival rate of hatchlings in nature.
- Historical Context: Initiated barely three years after the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. The project was launched due to the threat of extinction from indiscriminate killing for commercial purposes and severe habitat loss.
- Implementation and Success: Centers for breeding and rearing saltwater crocodiles, muggers, and gharials were started in 34 locations across various states in India under the guidance of HR Bustard. The project in Bhitarkanika, started by Sudhakar Kar and HR Bustard, has been the most successful, increasing the population from 95 in 1975 to 1,811 in the latest reptile census.
- Ongoing Efforts: Sudhakar Kar continues to provide technical expertise and methodology for the annual census of saltwater crocodiles even after retirement. Conservation of crocodiles is described as a lifelong mission by Kar.
IUCN Status of Crocodiles of India
Bhitarkanika National Park
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About the Issues Faced by Bhitarkanika
- Human-Crocodile Conflict: The increasing crocodile population has led to rising human-crocodile conflicts. Sudhakar Kar expressed concern over the conflicts, warning locals to avoid entering rivers, creeks, and waterbodies inhabited by estuarine crocodiles.
- Impact on Local Communities: Conflicts have led to 50 deaths since 2014. Local villagers have criticized politicians for not addressing the safety issues adequately, affecting political outcomes.
- Preventive Measures: Forest officials have erected barricades around 120 river ghats in and around Bhitarkanika to prevent crocodile attacks on humans.
- Political Implications: The human-crocodile conflict has influenced local political dynamics, with villagers expressing dissatisfaction with incumbents over safety concerns related to crocodile attacks.
Conclusion: Construct and maintain more robust protective barriers around water bodies, such as reinforced barricades and secure river ghats. Additionally, create safe, designated areas for water-related activities to minimize the risk of crocodile attacks.
Mains PYQ:
Q How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in the conservation of flora and fauna? (UPSC IAS/2018)
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