From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Loggerhead Turtles
Why in the News?
A new study in Nature reveals that loggerhead turtles can learn and remember the magnetic signature of an area, using Earth’s geomagnetic field for navigation during long migrations.
About Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta)
Loggerhead Sea Turtles belong to the Cheloniidae family, widely distributed across the world’s oceans.
They are commonly found in Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Oceans, and the Mediterranean Sea.
They Spends most of its life in saltwater and estuarine habitats, coming ashore only to nest.
They are omnivorous, feeding primarily on bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
It is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
International trade banned under CITES Appendix I.
Significance of the study
Loggerhead turtles travel thousands of kilometers across oceans and return to the same feeding and nesting sites.
Their ability to store magnetic memories helps them navigate vast distances, reinforcing the hypothesis that other migratory species may also rely on Earth’s magnetic field.
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following statements:
Some species of turtles are herbivores.
Some species of fish are herbivores.
Some species of marine mammals are herbivores.
Some species of snakes are viviparous.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mosquitofishes
Why in the News?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Central government regarding the use of two highly invasive and alien fish species—Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia reticulata (Guppy)—as biological agents for mosquito control in multiple states.
Both species are classified as “invasive and alien” by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).
About Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)
It has been widely introduced worldwide as a biological control agent to reduce mosquito populations.
The mosquitofish primarily feeds on mosquito larvae, small insects, and zooplankton.
Despite its intended benefits, Gambusia affinis has been identified as one of the world’s most invasive species.
It is highly aggressive and competes with native fish for resources.
It also preys on the eggs and juveniles of indigenous fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, leading to a decline in local biodiversity.
The Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) has listed it among the 100 worst invasive species globally due to its harmful ecological impact.
About Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy, Millionfish, Rainbow Fish)
Poecilia reticulata, commonly known as the Guppy, Millionfish, or Rainbow Fish, is a small freshwater fish native to Northern South America and the Caribbean.
It is widely recognized for its vibrant colors and adaptability, making it a popular choice for both aquarium enthusiasts and mosquito control programs worldwide.
It is a highly adaptable species, capable of surviving in a variety of freshwater environments.
Guppies are omnivorous, feeding on mosquito larvae, small insects, algae, and organic detritus.
Their feeding habits make them a common choice for mosquito control programs, although their effectiveness is still debated.
While guppies are less aggressive than mosquitofish, their population growth can still disrupt local ecosystems.
PYQ:
[2023] ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?
(a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
(b) Converting crop residues into packing material
(c) Producing biodegradable plastics
(d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian Bison (Gaur)
Why in the News?
The Jharkhand Forest department has initiated a study to revive the dwindling population of Bison, popularly known as Gaur, at Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR).
About Indian Bison (Gaur)
Details
Largest and tallest species in the wild cattle family.
Scientific Name: Bos gaurus.
Indigenous to South and Southeast Asia.
Species Habitat and Location
Found in evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
Prefers hilly terrains below 1,500–1,800 m with abundant water.
Distributed across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand.
Behavioural Features
Social animals living in herds of 30–40 individuals.
Strong and sturdy limbs, short tails, and inward-curved pale green/yellowish-brown horns.
Males weigh 600–1,500 kg; females weigh 400–1,000 kg.
Convex-shaped forehead; height ranges from 170–230 cm.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.
CITES: Appendix I.
PYQ:
[2011] A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following could be that animal?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Common Noctule Bats (Nyctalus noctula)
Why in the News?
The Common Noctule Bats are surf over the storm winds when they migrate thousands of miles across continents, reveals new research.
About the Common Noctule Bats (Nyctalus noctula)
The common noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula) is one of the largest bat species in Europe.
It has a body length of 7–9 cm, a wingspan of 32–40 cm, and weighs between 18–40 grams.
Its fur is reddish-brown to golden-brown, darker on the back and lighter underneath, while its wings are long and narrow, designed for fast and sustained flight.
Features:
Common noctules are known for their swift and high-altitude flight, reaching heights of up to 3,000 meters.
They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on moths, beetles, and other flying insects.
Their echolocation abilities allow them to detect and hunt prey with precision, even in complete darkness.
Although classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, common noctule bats face several threats, including habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanization.
Habitat:
The common noctule bat is widely distributed across Europe, North Africa, and Asia, extending into Siberia and parts of China.
It is migratory, especially in central and eastern Europe, traveling long distances between summer breeding sites and winter hibernation sites.
It inhabits forests and woodlands, where it uses hollow trees for roosting, as well as urban areas, where it often roosts in buildings, attics, and bat boxes.
These bats also thrive in wetlands and grasslands, hunting over water bodies and open fields where insect populations are abundant.
PYQ:
[2012] Consider the following kinds of organisms:
1. Bat
2. Bee
3. Bird
Which of the above is/are pollinating agent/agents?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Zebrafish
Why in the News?
A recent research revealed that the Zebrafish (a popular aquarium fish) can regenerate damaged heart muscle within 60 days, a capability absent in humans. The Hmga1 protein plays a key role in this process, offering potential insights for heart repair in mammals.
Discovery of Hmga1’s Role in Zebrafish Heart Regeneration:
In zebrafish, the Hmga1 protein plays a pivotal role in activating dormant genes necessary for regeneration.
It removes molecular “roadblocks” on chromatin (DNA-packaging structures), shifting genes from an inactive state to active regeneration mode.
The Hmga1 gene, active during embryonic development in mice and humans, becomes inactive after birth.
In zebrafish, however, the gene remains active during heart regeneration, enabling the repair process.
About Zebrafish
Zebrafish are small freshwater fish measuring 2-3 cm in length.
It is named for the horizontal blue stripes running along their bodies.
It is native to South Asia’s Indo-Gangetic plains and is commonly found in paddy fields, stagnant water, and streams.
It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Features of Zebrafish
Zebrafishes are known for their ability to regenerate almost all major organs, including the heart, brain, eyes, and spinal cord.
This unique trait makes them an important model in developmental biology and disease research.
They share approximately 70% of their genes with humans.
Over 80% of human disease-related genes have counterparts in zebrafish, making them valuable for studying genetic disorders.
They produce hundreds of embryos in a single clutch, enabling large-scale studies.
They are now preferred over rodent (guinea pigs) models for certain vertebrate development studies.
Widely used for regenerative biology and drug discovery due to their cost-effectiveness and rapid breeding.
The Border Security Force (BSF) has rescued a Serval, the African wild cat (Leptailurus serval) from an alleged wildlife smuggling attempt along the India-Bangladesh border.
AboutAfrican Wild Cat (Leptailurus serval):
Details
About
Scientific Name: Leptailurus serval
Common Name: African Wild Cat, Serval
Family: Felidae
Physical Description: Medium-sized wild cat with a slim, long-legged body, tawny coat with black spots and stripes, and large rounded ears. Can leap 3 meters (10 feet) vertically.
Habitat and Features
Found across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Preferred Habitats: Savannahs, grasslands, and wetlands; avoids arid regions and dense forests.
Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Uses acute hearing to hunt.
Behavior: Solitary, nocturnal or crepuscular, and communicates through vocalizations and scent-marking.
Reproduction: Breeds year-round, with 2–3 kittens per litter; gestation period is 74 days.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Listed as Least Concern.
CITES: Included in Appendix II to regulate trade.
Threats: Habitat loss, illegal hunting for fur, and conflicts with humans (e.g., poultry attacks).
PYQ:
[2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?
IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments.
IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lion-Tailed Macaque
Why in the News?
A new study highlights that increased food provisioning and habituation to human presence endanger the lion-tailed macaque, a endangered species found only in the Western Ghats of India. Roads crossing the macaque habitats in eight key locations—Anamalai Hills, Nelliyampathy, Nilambur Ghats, Sholayar, Gavi, Sabarimala, Vallimalai Hills, and Agumbe—have facilitated frequent human-animal interaction.
Note: The mention of this species as a ‘critically endangered’ is a metaphor used in the newspaper. It does not represent its original IUCN Red List status.
AboutLion-tailed macaque
Details
Scientific Name: Macaca silenus
Also known as: Lion-tailed macaque, Wanderoo, Bearded Monkey
Has black fur with a distinctive gray or silver mane around the face (in both sexes), often referred to as the “beard ape.”
Threats: Habitat loss, hunting, and wood harvesting
Significance: Indicator of rainforest health and an umbrella species for conserving other wildlife in its region.
Habitat
Endemic to the Western Ghats in India (states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu).
Primarily tropical evergreen rainforests, but they are also found in monsoon forests.
Behavioral Features
Shy and Avoidant: Unlike other macaques, they tend to avoid humans when possible.
Arboreal and Diurnal: Spend most of their time in trees and are active during daylight.
Communication: Possess up to 17 vocalizations; males define territory boundaries through calls.
Diet: Primarily frugivorous, but also consume leaves, stems, flowers, buds, fungi, and occasionally small animals.
Conservation Status
IUCN: Endangered
CITES: Appendix I
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule I
(Estimated 4,200 individuals remaining)
PYQ:
[2013] In which of the following States is lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat?
1. Tamil Nadu
2. Kerala
3. Karnataka
4. Andhra Pradesh
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Olive Ridley Turtles
Why in the News?
Carcasses of Olive Ridley turtles have been found along the Visakhapatnam coast during their breeding season, raising concerns about their conservation.
AboutOlive Ridley Turtles:
Details
Olive Ridley turtles are sea turtles known for their olive-colored carapace.
They are carnivorous, primarily feeding on jellyfish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
Unique mass nesting behavior (Arribada), where thousands of females lay eggs in synchronized waves on the same beach.
Their Habitat and Protection Status
Found in the warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.
Largest rookery (breeding colony) is at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Odisha, India.
Other major nesting sites include Devi River mouth (discovered in 1981) and Rushikulya river mouth (discovered in 1994).
Protection Status:
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
CITES: Appendix I (No international trade)
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (Highest level of protection)
Conservation Efforts
Project Olivia by Indian Coastguard to protect the Olive Ridley turtles, especially after the Gahirmatha rookery recognition.
Legal protections and environmental regulations safeguard nesting sites and prevent poaching.
Olive Ridley Protection Program ensures the safety of nests and hatchlings.
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Microhyla nilphamariensis frog
Why in the News?
A study highlights that endemic frog species, like the Nilphamari narrow-mouthed frog (Microhyla nilphamariensis), face challenges due to habitat loss and land use changes in agroforestry habitats like orchards and paddy fields.
About theNilphamari narrow-mouthed frog:
Details
About
A species of narrow-mouthed frog, characterized by a small size, narrow triangular mouth, and reduced webbing between toes.
It has light brown dorsal coloration with a dark brown diamond-shaped marking.
(Not listed by either IUCN or CITES.)
Geographical Location
Found in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and northern Pakistan.
Habitat and Challenges
Prefers moist environments like grassy fields near ephemeral pools.
Faces challenges due to habitat loss and land use changes, particularly in agroforestry areas like orchards and paddy fields.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: King Cobra and its distinct species
Why in the News?
A 12-year study by researchers from the Kalinga Centre for Rainforest Ecology has revealed that the king cobra, previously believed to be a single species, actually comprises four distinct species.
Important facts related to King Cobra:
Details
About
• Scientific Name: Ophiophagus hannah.
• It is the largest Venomous Snake; Reaches up to 18 feet (5.5 meters).
• Venom is Neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system.
Re-categorization
Kalinga Centre for Rainforest Ecology identified the species as:
Species differ by 1-4% genetically, justifying their reclassification.
Habitat and Behavioural Features
• Found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions ( India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and the Philippines)
• Solitary and territorial, with a diet of snakes, lizards, birds, and rodents.
• Mating occurs annually during monsoon, with females laying up to 40 eggs in nests.
• Raises and spreads its hood when threatened, appearing larger.
• Vital in controlling snake populations and maintaining ecological balance.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
CITES: Appendix II.
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule II.
PYQ:
[2010] King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest?
(a) It is a snake-eater and the nest helps attract other snakes
(b) It is a viviparous snake and needs a nest to give birth to its offspring
(c) It is an oviparous snake and lays its eggs in the nest and guards the nest until they are hatched
(d) It is a large, cold-blooded animal and needs a nest to hibernate in the cold season
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Corpse flower
Why in the News?
The study of Corpse Flower’s (Amorphophallus titanum) heat generation and odor emission has revealed how it attracts pollinators through unique adaptations for reproduction.
About theCorpse Flower (Titan Arum):
Details
Scientific Name
Amorphophallus titanum
Habitat
Rainforests of western Sumatra, Indonesia
Features
Grows up to 10-12 feet in height.
Blooms once every 5-10 years; bloom lasts 24-48 hours.
Carrion-feeding insects (flies, beetles) are attracted by smell and heat.
Strong smell of rotting flesh to attract pollinators;
Smells like cheese, garlic, decaying fish, sweaty socks, and feces
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Swallowtail Butterfly
Why in the News?
A recent study has found that the overexploitation of medicinal plants, is threatening the survival of swallowtail butterflies in the forest habitats of Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Region.
AboutSwallowtail Butterfly
Details
Family and Species
Family: Papilionidae
Global species: 573
Indian species: 77
Characteristics
Large size, brightly colored wings, tail-like extensions on hindwings
Strong fliers, diurnal, territorial behavior, feed on nectar
Distribution
Found in tropical and temperate regions of Asia, Africa, Americas
Habitat in India
Found in rainforests, woodlands, cultivated lands, and protected areas like the Western Ghats and Northeast India
Host Plants
Depend on specific plants like Rutaceae, Aristolochiaceae, Lauraceae, and Magnoliaceae families for larval development
Threats
Host plants, especially medicinal plants, are being overexploited in areas like the Bodoland Territorial Region
Deforestation, illegal cattle farming, agriculture, tree felling, and pesticide use
Swallowtail Conservation Action Plan (SCAP)
Purpose
To protect and conserve endangered swallowtail species and prevent their extinction
Focus Area
Focuses on habitat protection, host plant conservation, and population restoration
Swallowtail-Rich Zones
Northeastern India designated as a key zone for swallowtail conservation under SCAP
Legal Protection
12 swallowtail species in India are under federal protection;
Some species are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act.
Community Role
SCAP involves local communities in protecting host plants and preventing activities like illegal cattle grazing
PYQ:
[2016] Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?
Bridge gaps in health, education, and livelihoods; enhance infrastructure in PVTG communities aligned with existing schemes from nine ministries.
Total Outlay
Rs 24,104 crore over three years
Rs 15,000 crore allocated under the Development Action Plan for the Scheduled Tribes (DAPST) for the housing component over three years.
Implementation
Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes designed to enhance socio-economic conditions of PVTGs.
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs through the State Governments/ UT Administration/departments have undertaken habitation level data collection exercise through PM Gati Shakti mobile application to estimate PVTG population figures and infrastructure gaps under PM-JANMAN Mission.
Coverage
Targets 75 PVTGs in 18 states and 1 Union Territory, focusing on health, education, and livelihoods.
Competitive Federalism
Performance-based ranking of districts; top districts and Ministries recognized and rewarded for outstanding performance.
PYQ:
[2017] What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)?
[2019] Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:
PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.
A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.
There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.
Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) 1, 3 and 4
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Squalus hima
Why in the News?
Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, Squalus hima, from the Sakthikulangara fishing harbour in Kerala along the Arabian Sea.
About Squalus hima
Squalus is a genus of dogfish sharks in the family Squalidae, commonly known as spurdogs, characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines.
The new species, Squalus hima sp. nov., has been misidentified with S. mitsukurii and S. lalannei in the past.
Squalus hima differs from other species by the number of precaudal vertebrae, total vertebrae, teeth count, trunk and head heights, fin structure, and fin colour.
Comparison with Other Species
On the Indian coast, two species of Squalus are found from the southwest coast of India.
The new species, Squalus hima n.sp., is very similar to Squalus lalannei but differs in many characteristics.
Species in the Squalus megalops group are characterized by an angular short snout, a small mouth almost as wide as the snout, the first dorsal fin origin behind the pectoral fins, and a body without any spots.
Economic and Conservation Implications
Sharks in the genus Squalus and Centrophorus are exploited for their liver oil, which contains high levels of squalene, used in high-end cosmetic and anti-cancer products.
Fishermen from southern India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands harvest these sharks for their liver oil, making conservation of these species critical.
Importance of the Discovery
The discovery of Squalus hima is significant for the conservation of shark species exploited for commercial purposes.
Dogfish sharks are commercially important for their fins, liver oil, and meat and are sometimes caught as by-catch in fisheries targeting other species.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Species mentioned; IUCN.
Why in the News?
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has issued an update on the threats faced by various reptile and cactus species due to invasive species and illegal trade.
Species highlighted by the IUCN
Species
Status Change
Reason for Decline
Location
Threats
Ibiza Wall Lizard
Near Threatened → Endangered
50% population decline since 2010 due to invasive snake
>50% decline since 2014 due to the introduction of California Kingsnake
Gran Canaria, Spain
California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis California)
Gran Canaria Skink
Least Concern → Endangered
>50% decline since 2014 due to the introduction of California Kingsnake
Gran Canaria, Spain
California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis California)
Copiapoa Cacti
Critically Endangered
82% critically endangered, up from 55% in 2013
Atacama Desert, Chile
Illegal trade for ornamental purposes, climate change impacts
Back2Basics: IUCN Overview Table
Details
Founded
1948
Headquarters
Gland, Switzerland
Mission
To conserve nature and ensure the sustainable and equitable use of natural resources.
Focus Areas
Initially conservation ecology
Now includes sustainable development issues
Influence
Influences governments, businesses, and stakeholders
Known for the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
IUCN Red List
Estimates the probability of species’ extinction for animals, fungi, and plants globally
Public and universally accessible
Provides specific data on species’ attributes, dangers, and protection efforts
Assists in conservation decisions and policy-making
Categories of Extinction Risk
Nine categories from NE (Not Evaluated) to EX (Extinct)
Threatened categories: Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), and Vulnerable (VU)
Global Targets Indicator
Serves as a headline indicator for SDGs and Aichi Targets
IUCN Green Status of Species
Assesses the effectiveness of recovery and conservation processes for species’ populations
Categories: EW (Extinct in the Wild), CR (Critically Endangered), LR/cd (Least Concern/Conservation Dependent), MOD (Moderately Depleted), SL (Stable), FR (Fluctuating Range), ND (Not Determined), ID (Insufficient Data)
PYQ:
[2023] Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organizations?
(a) The International Union for Conservation of Nature
(b) The United Nations Environment Programme
(c) The United Nations World Commission for Environment and Development
(d) The World Wide Fund for Nature
[2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?
IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments
IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.
Select the correct using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian Star Tortoise; TRAFFIC
Why in the News?
Malaysia has seized about 200 smuggled Indian Star Tortoises and Turtles in a major crackdown. The Indian star tortoise is the single most confiscated species of freshwater tortoise in the world, according to wildlife trade watchdog TRAFFIC.
AboutIndian Star Tortoises (Geochelone elegans)
Details
Habitat
Found in Central and Southern India, West Pakistan, and Sri Lanka
Typically resides in dry, open habitats such as scrub forests, grasslands, and rocky outcroppings
Threats
Habitat fragmentation due to urbanization and agricultural practices
Loss of genetic diversity due to hybridization
90% of trade occurs in the international pet market, according to the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau
Protection Status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
Wild Life Protection Act 1972: Schedule I
CITES: Appendix I
Back2Basics: TRAFFIC (Trade Records Analysis of Flora and Fauna in Commerce)
Details
Founded
1976
Headquarters
Cambridge, United Kingdom
Mission
Ensure that trade in wild plants and animals does not threaten the conservation of nature.
Founding Partners
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Great Indian Bustard and its recovery
Why in the News?
The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) approved Rs 56 crore for the next phase of the conservation program for the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) and the Lesser Florican for the 2024-2029 period.
Note: Both the Bustard and Lesser Florican are critically endangered, with only 140 Bustards and less than 1,000 Lesser Floricans surviving.
Back2Basics:Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA)
Details
Establishment
Established by the MoEFCC.
Legal Basis: Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.
Objective
Ensure effective utilization of funds for compensatory afforestation, catchment area treatment, wildlife management, and forest resource development.
Background
Created due to the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes; aimed at mitigating the loss of forest cover through compensatory afforestation.
Structure
National CAMPA Advisory Council: Provides policy advice and ensures inter-ministerial coordination.
State CAMPAs: Manage funds and oversee implementation at the state level.
Fund Utilization
Funds are used for afforestation, forest ecosystem regeneration, wildlife protection, forest infrastructure, and conservation activities.
Key Activities
Afforestation and reforestation
Wildlife management
Forest management
Soil and moisture conservation
Financial Management
Managed by CAMPA at national and state levels;
Funds are non-lapsable and specifically allocated for forestry and wildlife activities.
Monitoring and Reporting
Includes regular audits and progress reports to ensure transparency and accountability in fund utilization and project implementation.
Legal Framework
Governed by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016
CAMPA Guidelines.
Impact and Significance
Crucial for mitigating deforestation impacts, supporting ecological balance, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable forest management.
About Great Indian Bustards
GIBs are the largest among the four bustard species found in India, the other three being MacQueen’s bustard, the lesser florican, and the Bengal florican.
GIBs’ historic range included much of the Indian sub-continent but it has now shrunken to just 10 percent of it.
Among the heaviest birds with flight, GIBs prefer grasslands as their habitats.
GIBs are mainly found in Desert National Park, Rajasthan.
Bustards face major threats, including habitat changes and collisions with power lines.
Protection accorded:
Birdlife International: uplisted from Endangered to Critically Endangered (2011)
Protection under CITES: Appendix I
IUCN status: Critically Endangered
Protection under Wildlife (Protection) Act: Schedule I
What is the GIB Recovery Plan?
The proposal was prepared by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
The proposal includes:
Rewilding Bustards bred in ex-situ conservation centres,
Conducting detailed population studies, and
Developing artificial insemination techniques.
Back2Basics: Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
WII is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
It was established in 1982.
It is based in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
Functions: It offers training programs, academic courses, and advisory in wildlife research and management.
Why such a move?
Indicator Species: The GIB is a key indicator species of grassland habitat, signalling the health of these environments.
Population Decline: The population has declined from around 700 individuals to less than 150 due to habitat loss, predation, and death by overhead power lines.
Supreme Court Order: The Supreme Court recognized the threat from power lines and constituted an expert committee to assess the feasibility of overhead and underground electric lines in the bustard’s habitats.
Conservation Efforts and Achievements
Recovery Plan: Initial efforts began between 2012-2013 with a long-term recovery project, which firmed up in 2016 with a Rs 33.85 crore funding outlay.
Funding and Agreements: The project was funded by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund, with a tripartite agreement in 2018 involving the Environment Ministry, Rajasthan Forest Department, and WII.
In-Situ Breeding: Conservation breeding began in 2019, resulting in a founder population of 40 GIBs at the Ramdevra centre.
Achievements at Breeding Centres
Successful Breeding: Eggs collected from the wild were incubated and chicks were hand-reared. The breeding centres now have a founder population of 40 GIBs.
Scientific Reasoning: Creating a founder population prevents extirpation and captures genetic variability. The goal is to have at least 20 adult birds including 15 females.
Future Plans
Next Phase (2024-2033): The immediate next phase will run until 2029, targeting the upgradation of the CBC at Ramdevra and the development of the Lesser Florican CBC at Sorsan.
Population Surveys: Surveys will be conducted in Rajasthan and other range states to monitor population status.
Release into the Wild: The most important target is releasing captive-bred GIBs into the wild, preceded by soft release in enclosures.
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to India’s Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct?
1. It is spread over two districts.
2. There is no human habitation inside the Park.
3. It is one of the natural habitats of the Great Indian Bustard.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2019] Consider the following statements:
As per law, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority exists at both National and State levels.
People’s participation is mandatory in the compensatory afforestation programmes carried out under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
