essay on wildlife conservation efforts in india

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essay on wildlife conservation efforts in india

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Here is an essay on the ‘Initiatives for Wildlife Conservation in India’ for class 11 and 12. Find paragraphs, long and short essays on the ‘Initiatives for Wildlife Conservation in India’ especially written for school and college students.

Essay on Wildlife Conservation

Essay Contents:

Essay on the Crocodile Breeding Project

ADVERTISEMENTS: (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Essay # 1. Introduction to the Initiatives for Wildlife Conservation in India:

India is rich in various biogeographical provinces, ranging from the cold deserts of Ladakh and Spiti to the hot deserts of Thar, temperate forests in the Himalayas to the lush green tropical rain forests of the low lands. India has also large freshwater bodies such as Wular and Manasbal lakes in Kashmir, Chilka lake in Orissa and Kolleru lake in Andhra Pradesh and the rugged and rich coastline and coral reefs of Deccan.

Protected Areas are ecological/biogeographical areas where wildlife is conserved. Their habitats and natural resources are conserved and poaching is prevented. They are delimited to protect biological diversity. They are cold desert (Ladakh and Spiti), hot desert (Thar), wetland (Assam and N.E. States), saline swampy areas (Sunderbans, Rann of Kutch), mangroves, temperate forests, subtropical forests, tropical forests, tropical wet evergreen forests, tropical moist deciduous forests, tropical deciduous forests, tropical thorn, coral reef, etc. Protected Areas include national parks, sanctuaries and biosphere reserves.

1. National Parks:

They are strictly reserved areas meant for the betterment of the wildlife. They are reserved for improvement of wildlife. In them cultivation, grazing, forestry operation and habitat manipulation is prohibited.

2. Sanctuaries:

In them protection is given only to the fauna (animals) and harvesting of timber, collection of MFP and private ownership rights are permitted, but interference with the well-being of animals is not allowed. Here wild animals can take refuge without being hunted. Here collection of forest products, harvesting of timber, private ownership of land, tilling of land, etc., are allowed. Sanctuary is declared by the State Government under Section 18(1) of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, whereas National Park is declared under Section 35(1) of the Act.

In sanctuary the boundary is demarcated at the time of declaration. In national park boundary is well-defined and accurate.

3. Biosphere Reserves:

Man and Biosphere Programme (MAB) of the UNESCO evolved the concept of Biosphere Reserves. In biosphere reserve, multiple land use is permitted designating various zones.

(i) Core zone in which human activity is not permitted. All forestry and harvesting operations are prohibited and even entry is restricted. Only population studies and scientific investigations are allowed.

(ii) Buffer zone in which limited human activity is permitted. Here no shooting is allowed, but no professional graziers are allowed to establish cattle pens. Camping for tourists are allowed.

(iii) Manipulation zone in which large number of human activities is allowed, but ecology is not permitted to be disturbed.

In a biosphere reserve, wild population, traditional tribals and varied domesticated plant and animal genetic resources are protected.

India has identified 14 areas as Biosphere Reserves. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve includes parts of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It was declared in 1986.

(iv) Restoration zone is a degraded area for restoration to near natural form.

4. Safari Park:

An enclosed park where wild animals are kept uncaged in the open providing natural habitat for viewing to the public.

An area set aside for exhibiting the wild animals kept in cages and artificial enclosures. Here animals’ freedom is restricted.

6. Zoological Garden:

A place where a large number of mammals, birds, reptiles, fishes, etc., are shown in a confined area in or near a city. Animals are usually kept in small enclosures or in cages. It is used for recreation and education of the public.

7. Zoological Park:

It is a zoo where animals are comparatively free and are shown in the natural surrounding with barriers and restrictions hidden from view. It is best located on the outskirts of cities where enough land is available.

8. Sanctum Sanctorum:

It is a sanctuary within the sanctuary or inner portion of a wild sanctuary or national park in which no forest operation or management is allowed. Even visitors are not allowed to prevent any kind of disturbance to wildlife.

Essay # 2. Conservation of Wildlife :

The management of human use of the biosphere so that it may yield the greatest sustainable benefit to present generation and to maintain its potential to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations is called the conservation. It is scientific management of wildlife to maintain it at its optimum level.

The conservation of wildlife is directly related to healthy and better forests. Wildlife conservation includes protection, preservation, and perpetuation of rare species of plants and animals in their natural habitats.

Conservation of living resources has three specific objectives:

1. To maintain essential ecological processes and life supporting systems.

2. To preserve diversity of species.

3. Sustainable utilisation of species and ecosystems which support rural communities and major industries.

Essay # 3. Conservation Strategies :

For wildlife conservation and its propagation, proper management techniques should be employed. Sanctuaries, national parks, biosphere reserves, projects, etc., have been created for exclusively protecting the wild flora and fauna in India as well as in other countries of the world. Scientists of 100 countries of the world have evolved comprehensive “World Conservation Strategies” for the judicious use of resources.

To save the existing species of wildlife they proposed some steps which are as follows:

1. Efforts should be made to preserve the endangered species. Species that are sole representative of their family or genus should receive special attention. Endangered species should be given priority over a vulnerable one, a vulnerable species over a rare one and a rare species over other categories.

All the threatened species should be protected. Priority be given belonging to monotypic genera, endangered over-vulnerable, vulnerable over rare and rare over other species.

2. Wildlife should be protected in their natural habitat in situ and in zoo and botanical gardens (ex situ). The threatened species should be conserved in situ as well as in ex situ.

3. Identify the habitats of wild relatives of the economically valuable and useful plants and animals and preserve them in protected areas like sanctuaries, national parks and biosphere reserves.

4. The critical habitats of the species like feeding, breeding, nursery and resting areas should be protected (safeguarded).

5. In case of migratory or wide ranging animals, protected areas should be established to preserve their habitats.

6. For migratory or wide ranging animals, pollution and exploitation of the environment along their migration routes should be controlled.

7. Unique ecosystem (national parks and biospheres) should be protected as a matter of priority.

The national protection programmes have to be coordinated with international programmes like biosphere reserve programme of UNESCO. Man and Biosphere Project and National Parks and Protected Areas of International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN).

National Wildlife (Protection) Act was enacted in India in 1972. Wildlife protection strategies were formulated in India in 1983. Biosphere reserves have also been put into practice since 1986. Wildlife Institute of India is located at Dehradun (Uttaranchal). Indian Board for Wildlife (IBWL) was established in 1952.

8. The productive capacities of exploited species and ecosystems have to be determined and their utilisation should not exceed from those capacities.

9. International trade in wild plants and animals has to be regulated by appropriate legislative and administrative measures.

India is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES).

Smt. Indira Gandhi (Late Prime Minister of India) addressed in her inaugural speech of World Conservation Strategies in 1980. She said that Indian tradition teaches us that all forms of life – human, animal and plant – are so closely interlinked that disturbance in one gives rise to imbalance in the other … Nature is beautifully balanced. Any disturbance creates a chain reaction which may not be visible for some time.

Essay # 4. Important Indian Wildlife:

The science of zoogeography has both ecological and historical aspects and the two are intimately interwoven. Animals and plants are living indicators of the characteristics of their environment. Their ranges mark the places in which environmental conditions are the same or similar. The evolution and distribution of species throws light upon the geological evolution of various parts of earth and upon the course of global changes in climate and vegetation.

Based mainly on historical-cum-geographical factors, Philip Lutley Schaler (1825-1913) and Alfred Russel Wallace (1823-1913) have divided the world into six zoo-geographical regions, namely- Neoarctic, Palaearctic, Ethiopian, Oriental, Australian and Neotropical. India is of recent origin and it is a part of Oriental region. North Indian fauna during tertiary period were mastodons, eleven species of elephants, Siwalik bison, buffalo, ox, tamarau as well as the recent African animals like hippopotamus, giraffe, chimpanzee, rhinoceros and four-horned ruminant Sivatherium.

Area was covered with savannah and woodlands. Asiatic lion, striped hyaena and antelopes can be the relics of the past. The dhole, most endangered top predator, is on the edge of extinction. Less than 2500 members of species are alive in the world. From Siwalik were discovered fragments of jaw of Ramapitheus (primitive hominid ape).

India has three sub-regions on the basis of physiography and climate:

a. Himalayan mountain systems which has three distinct sub-zones:

(i) Himalayan foothills (from eastern frontiers of Kashmir to Assam),

(ii) High altitudes in the Western Himalayas (from Kashmir including Ladakh to Kumaon), and

(iii) Eastern Himalayan sub-region.

b. Peninsular-Indian sub-region which shares the animals of North Africa, such as lion, cheetah, leopard, hyaena, jackal and antelopes.

c. Indo-Malayan sub-region (Tropical evergreen forests) has similarities with Indian, Malayan and Indo-Chinese fauna. This sub-region contains red panda, gibbon, tree shrew, tapir, giant squirrel, and flying lemur.

1. Lion (Panthera Leo Persica):

It is gregarious carnivorous animal. It prefers open scrub forest mixed with thorny deciduous forest. The temperature of its habitat should not be more than 45°C in summer and not below 5°C in winter. It is found only in Gir forest of Gujarat State as well as in the whole Asian continent. Its habitat should be improved to raise the carrying-capacity for the prey species to meet the full demand of lion.

For herbivorous prey species, there should be total control in grazing of the livestock. Moghul emperor Jahangir was fond of hunting male lions and tigers. Col. Smith during Sepoy Mutiny in India in 1857 killed 300 lions of which 50 were from Delhi alone. By 20th century, the lions population was only 15. The last lion was killed at Anadra and Jaswantpura (Rajasthan) in 1876. Gir Lion Sanctuary Project was started in 1972. Due to conservation measures, lion population increased gradually to 250 in 1977.

2. Indian Tiger (Panthera Tigris Tigris):

Tiger is a solitary carnivorous animal having apparent territory. It is nocturnal predatory inhabiting dense forest such as thorny forest, dry and moist deciduous forest, evergreen and semi-evergreen forest. For raising its population, pasture lands should be improved for raising the carrying-capacity of the habitat for herbivorous preys.

Since 1972, tiger has been declared India’s National Animal. In the beginning of 20th century tiger population was about 40,000. In early 1970s their population was reduced to about 1800 due to unrestricted killing for skin, flesh and fat, etc. Indian tiger census conducted in 2008 showed their existence of only 1411 tigers. To save them from extinction, Project Tiger was started on April 1, 1973, by the Government of India with the help of W.W.F. (Worldwide Fund for Nature). Today there are 39 Project Tiger wildlife reserves in India covering an area of 37,761 sq. km.

3. Elephant (Elephas Maximns):

It is found in plains and hilly forest up to 1500 metre elevation. It needs a lot of water for drinking and bathing, so there must be perennial river, lake, etc., in the habitat. Its food is bamboo and grass, which should be in sufficient quantity. An adult elephant needs about three quintals green fodder daily. It is distributed throughout India except Madhya Pradesh, Andhra and Maharashtra. Generally only the males have large tusks, which are the extension of second pair of incisors. Canines and all incisors have lost.

Lengthened nose and upper lip forms the trunk. In some males, tusks are no longer than females (a few inches long) and called tuskless or Makhana. Elephants have very poor sight, but smell and hearing are acute. Limbs are pillar-like. Toes are embedded in a common mass of foot and encased in a common skin.

Their position is indicated externally by broad flat nails which may be fewer than the number of toes. Project Elephant started in 1992 which works for elephant protection. Elephants in India are trained for hunting, transportation, processions, travelling, visiting wildlife parks and sanctuaries, etc. Periyar wildlife sanctuary situated in Kerala having an area about 777 sq. km., was established in 1940 for elephant and other wildlife.

4. Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros Unicornis):

It inhabits forest having marshy land and tall grasses. It feeds on grasses and also water-hyacinth. In 1904, only about twelve rhinos were left in Assam and fewer in North Bengal. In the past they were found extensively in river Indus plain and Ganges in northern India. Temur killed several of them on the frontiers of Kashmir. Babar also hunted rhinos in different parts of northern India.

Wanton hunting and decrease of natural habitat eliminated them in western part of India and now they are restricted in Nepal, Assam, etc. Its flesh and blood are offered as libation in Nepal. Urine is supposed to be antiseptic and is hung in a vessel at the main door as a charm against ghosts, evil spirits and diseases.

Rhinos are poached and killed for their horn which is a strong aphrodisiac and an antidote for poison. In Kaziranga National Park, Sibsagar/Nowgong district (Assam) about 1,654 rhinos is found. They are also transferred in Dudhwa Sanctuary in Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh. The species stands on the verge of extinction and needs strict protection.

5. Gaur or Indian Bison (Bos Gaurus):

It is gregarious, shy and largest animal of the family Bovidae. It lives in dense forest having meadows. It is also found in hilly areas below 1500 to 1800 metre height. It also needs sufficient water in its habitat. Bison is confined in India, Myanmar, and Malaya. In Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh they are found in jungles north of river Narmada. Few bisons are also found in Bandipur (Karnataka).

Both sexes of bison possess horns. They feed on coarse grasses, leaves and bark of certain trees. Bisons live in herds and breed in cold weather. Gaur is distributed in western ghats southwards from South Maharashtra, hill-forests of central and south-eastern Peninsula and West Bengal, Myanmar and Malay Peninsula. Gaur has the habit of visiting “salt-licks” spots where the ground is impregnated with salts and other minerals.

6. Wild Buffalo (Bubalus Bubalis):

It is distributed from east of Assam (plane of Brahmaputra), eastern portion of Tara, Midnapur and Orissa. They are also found in forests of Bastar, Balaghat, Mandla and Raipur districts. They like large grass plains and plenty of water. Wild buffalo is larger in size than the tamed buffalo and black in colour. Its horns are black, triangular and large. Adult buffalo weighs about 800 kg. They live in herds of 8 to 15 animals. Breeding starts in autumn.

There are three important species of bear- Sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), Himalayan black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus) and brown bear (Ursus arctos).

Sloth bear is widely distributed in India, found in the forests from Himalayan foothills to Sri Lanka and Assam. Its long hairy coat is black or black-brown in colour. There is a white V-shaped breast mark. Nails are white. It is nocturnal in habit and feeds on honey, insects and fruits. At the time of hunger, it takes carrion. Sloth bear shares habitat of tiger and elephant.

Himalayan black bear is found in forests of Himalayas up to 3,000 metre height. Its hairy black coat is shorter and smoother than the sloth bear. V-shaped breast mark is white or yellowish. Nails are black. It is carnivorous and kills sheep, goat, fowl and even cattle, though its main food is honey and fruit. It is nocturnal in habit and climbs the trees. It hibernates in winter.

Brown bear is found in Himalayas above the tree line (treeless mountain areas). It is large and heavy having hair coat of reddish brown colour. It mainly feeds on grass, roots, insects, fruits and grain but also eats meat of goat, sheep, cattle and fowl.

8. Black Buck (Antilope Cervicapra):

It is called Indian antelope, lives outside the forest in herds. It is gregarious and male has its territory. It is found in 13 states of India but the largest number is found in Rajasthan. About 10,000 are found in Jodhpur district. In Thar desert in Taal Chhaper Sanctuary in Churu about 1400 live in 7 sq. km. Black buck is found in 8 wildlife sanctuaries and nearly 14 other areas in Rajasthan. Black buck prefers open grassy fields and is dependent on water. It is not found in arid areas. Black buck is not found in Jaisalmer, parts of Bikaner and parts of Jodhpur with less than 200 mm annual rainfall. It feeds on small grasses.

9. Cheetal (Axis Axis):

Sambhar (Cervus unicolor), Four-horned antelope (Tetracerus quadricornis). Cheetal lives in moist deciduous forest, evergreen and thorny forests. It feeds on grasses, leaves, flowers and fruits.

Sambhar lives in open dry deciduous forest, and also found in dry and moist deciduous forest and evergreen forest. It is the largest among all deer species. It lives in small herds.

Four-horned antelope prefers dry and bushy savannah but also lives in open grassy field near the forest. It is solitary animal and generally lives in pair.

Cheetal and sambhar both are prey of top carnivore.

10. Swamp Deer/Barasingha (Cervus Duvauceli):

It is found in open grassy lands with marshy lands. Its habitat should have sufficient water. It lives in marshy tracts of Tarai and Duars from northern parts of upper Gangetic plains east to Assam. Its other subspecies (C. d. branderi) thrives on the open grassy land of Madhya Pradesh. They are now mostly confined to the Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh.

11. Musk Deer (Moschus Moschiferous):

Himalayan musk deer is a small primitive deer, was widespread throughout Himalayas from Pakistan, through India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Tibet and South-west China. Its head is dark grey with slight orange-brown patches above and below the eyes with white tipped ears. Throat is whitish around a central grey oval patch. Along the back, pelage is dark grey or brown, becoming orange-brown around the anal region. Male deer lacks antlers but possess tusks (canines of upper jaw) for fighting. A unique feature of this is presence of musk gland in male, which is chiefly responsible for its decline.

The gelatinous, brown musk secreted by preputial gland has been used in medicines and cosmetics for centuries. Its cost now is 40,000 to 59,000 U.S. Dollar per kg., in the international market. Its habitat destruction due to destruction of forest for livestock, timber and fuelwood is the main cause for the decline of species. The species was listed as vulnerable in Red Data Book. IUCN and WWF Project was launched with the cooperation of India to conserve the musk deer. The project is based in Kedarnath Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh.

12. Indian Crocodiles:

In India, there are three species of crocodilians such as:

(i) The Mugger or Freshwater Swamp Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris). It has average adult size of 3.5 metres, inhabiting rivers, pools, ponds, village tanks, lakes, swamps and reservoirs.

(ii) The Saltwater or Estuarine Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus). It grows more than 7 metres and is restricted to the coastal mangrove area in the saltwater (sea).

(iii) The Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus). It is the sole living member of the family Gavialidae. It has unique long snout. It has large size of more than 7 metres. It is a fish-eating, riverine species found in large rivers such as Ganga, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Kosi, Gandak, etc., of North Indian Himalayan-fed river system.

Once abundant in all the major rivers and even ponds, they are among threatened animals today. Their population declined because of uncontrolled and all-season hunting for skin, flesh and sport. Loss of habitat due to construction of dams, diversion of rivers and human interference were other factors. In the wake of declining population, ‘Save the Crocodile’ projects were launched in 1974 under the guidance of Dr. H.R. Bustard as the chief technical adviser.

13. Great Indian Bustard (Aredotis Nigricaps):

It is one of the rarest birds of the world. In mid-1980s, bustard population was estimated to be between 500 and 1500, of which half of the birds surviving in Rajasthan. Bustard survived in nearly 200,000 sq. km. of the Thar desert. Surveys of 1993 and 1994 indicate that bustard numbers have almost half in the whole Rajasthan. In mid-1980s survey of bustard indicated that it is found in Jaisalmer, Barmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Pali, Jalore, Ajmer, Bhilwara, Tonk, Kota and Sawai Madhopur (11 districts). Bustard is distributed from central Punjab to central Tamil Nadu, western Orissa into eastern Pakistan.

Great Indian Bustard is under Schedule 1 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Rajasthan Government has declared it as State Bird.

Bustard population decreased due to the development of 649-km Indira Gandhi Nahar Project (IGNP). It has resulted in expansion of agriculture, land colonisation, development of new towns and their expansion and change in natural vegetation due to extensive plantation of exotic trees, Shooting also played a major role in decimation of bustards of the Thar desert.

Bustards live in flocks. It was listed as globally threatened in 1966. During last 10 to 12 years the bustard population has crashed in many areas and now the total population could be as low as 500. It is extinct in Karera and Sorsan bustard areas.

Bustard is about one metre tall with long sturdy yellow legs without hind toe. Its plumage is dull brown above and white below. One male lives with 3 to 5 hens. It feeds on arthropods, lizards, snakes, mice and also grains and young shoots of plants. Their breeding season is from July to October and lay one or two eggs.

14. Common Peafowl (Pavo Cristatus):

It is also called peacock and in Hindi “Mor” or “Mayur”. It is found throughout India up to 1650 metres in Himalayas. It displays sexual dimorphism, male has a gorgeous occellated tail feathers, which are not found in female bird. The bird is not threatened but it is the National Bird of India.

Green Peafowl (Pavo Muticus):

It was distributed widely from north-east India to southern China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia. It is not found in Malaysia and Bangladesh. It has declined rapidly and now occurs in fragmented, greatly reduced populations. In India it is restricted to far north-eastern states in a very reduced number. Its number is declining due to hunting for meat, exploitation for trade and persecution by farmers, habitat conversion to farmland. It is a vulnerable species and receives legal protection in India and also in other countries.

15. Hornbills:

Rufous-Necked Hornbill (Aceros ripalensis) is found in mountainous regions between eastern Nepal and Vietnam. It is now absent from or very rare in this range, but still occurs in southern China, north-eastern India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. In India, it has been recorded in West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim. Recently it has been scarce in West Bengal and Assam and perhaps disappeared from its previous range. It is threatened by the combination of habitat loss and hunting.

Narcondam Hornbill (Aceros Narcondami):

It is found in Narcondam, a small area of the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal. In 1972 their number was 400, while in 1998 their number reduced to 295 to 320 birds. Its population is susceptible to climatic disasters and disease. The primary threats arise from establishment of police outpost on the island manned by 17 persons in 1969. In 1976 police introduced pairs of goats which increased to 130-150 in 1998 and further increased to 250 due to which natural woodland regeneration is reduced.

Each year at least 10-12 live standing trees are cut down for fuelwood and for poles to make fences to check goats not to enter the vegetable plots. Hunting for meat was also a threat to these birds. It is also listed in Schedule 1 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Narcondam Island has been protected since February 1977 as a wildlife sanctuary.

Essay # 5. Project Tiger:

Tiger is our National Animal. It is found in diverse habitats and in different parts of the country. Tiger is at the apex position as top carnivore of the complex food-chain in most of our forest ecosystems. Over the years, the over-exploitation of the forest areas, merciless hunting, unscientific management, etc., reduced the habitat of tiger as well as leading to a rapid decline has, therefore, been in India not only as effort to save an endangered species but also with equal importance as a means of preserving biotopes.

Project Tiger has been inspired by such an approach. The Indian Board for Wildlife (IBWL) set up a Task Force for studying the condition of tiger population and its status. On the recommendation of this Task Force, Project Tiger was initiated a Central Sector Scheme in 1973 with 9 Tiger Reserves (total area: 13,017 sq. km.) located in different habitat types in 9 different states, but two more reserves have since been subsequently added to it constituting 11 Tiger Reserves in 10 different states of the country (total area: 15,800 sq. km.). But this number is not last and increasing always.

The main aim of the project was to conserve and improve the natural habitat of the tiger under different habitat types. The management practices and strategies in the reserves are controlled in such a way that all the limiting factors of habitats are removed. The steps to be taken in this direction are intensive anti-poaching drive, fire prevention, elimination of cattle-grazing, soil conservation, water management, eradication of weeds, non-interference by human activities, relocation of human habitation and so on.

The project started initially as a Central Sector Scheme and expenditure incurred by the States was provided by the Central Government till 1979-80. After this, the project had been given the status of Centrally Sponsored Scheme and the Centre and States are sharing cost on a 50:50 basis. The Worldwide Fund for Nature and Natural Resources (WWF) is also extending financial and technical help.

Essay # 6. Project Lion (Gir Lion Project) :

The lion stands as top carnivore in the food-chain of the ecosystem. The Indian race of lion (Panthera leo persica) is found only in the Gir Forest of Junagarh district in the Saurashtra peninsula of Gujarat State in whole Asian continent and, hence, also called “Asiatic Lion”. Another race of lion (Panthera leo) is found in Africa and called “African Lion”.

Today the Asiatic lion is restricted only in the Gir Forest of Gujarat State. Even in this very forest; due to merciless hunting, conversion of forest into agricultural land, uncontrolled cattle-grazing and spreading of infectious diseases through them, pressure of maldharis inside the forest, etc., hampered the habitat of this magnificent creature too much and subsequently declined its population reaching to the endangered stage.

Observing the situation of Gir Forest, it was discussed at the technical session of International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) in New Delhi in November, 1969 towards the conservation of Asiatic Lion and its habitat. A number of wildlifers and ecologists all over the world were consulted in 1972. The State Government gave guidelines to Forest Department for the management of this project.

The guidelines of the project were implemented in the same year. The area of sanctuary was increased from 1265.1 to 1412.12 sq. km., in 1974. The central core-zone of the sanctuary covering area of 258.71 sq. km., was declared as National Park. Many other fruitful and effective practices were done. Through the practical practices, approaches, marvelous results were achieved and the population of lion began to increase year after year.

Essay # 7. Project Elephant :

The project was started officially in 1991-92 but launched in 1993 by the Central Government to afford protection to the elephant. The census of elephant stated in 1993.

Now-a-days, two species of elephants are found:

(i) Indian Elephant (Elephas maximus) and

(ii) African Elephant (Loxodonta africana).

Indian elephant is comparatively smaller than the African and its pinna is also smaller. Indian elephants are distributed in Uttar Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.

Elephants were extensively used as beast of burden, as transportation vehicle, and so on. In spite of these, they have been hunted for their tusks as ivory materials and export also. Hence, elephant catching was popular and an economic operation. As a result, its population declined very sharply.

Protection of the elephant began with the Elephant Preservation Act of 1987. To make more effective, Elephant Project was started for protection and propagation of the animal.

Through the project, habitat should be managed in such an effective manner that the elephant may take shelter peacefully inside the jungle which is its natural habitat, and in this way, we can check their hindrance, invasion, migration, etc., towards the village and agricultural-fields. By managing the habitat in good and scientific way providing the sufficient facilities, the animal will be bound to live properly in their natural-home without harming and killing the man and destroying the crops, which is happening now-a-days often giving much tension and worry to our society and the government.

Essay # 8. Crocodile Breeding Project :

(ii) The Saltwater or Estuarine Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus). It grows more than 7 metres and is restricted to the coastal mangrove areas in the saltwater (sea).

(iii) The Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus). It is the sole living member of the family Gavialidae. It has unique long snout. It has large size of more than 7 metres. It is a fish eating riverine species found in large rivers such as Ganga, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Kosi, Gandak, etc., of the North Indian Himalayan-fed river systems.

Crocodiles have catastrophically declined worldwide in the post-war period largely as a result of sophisticated hunting methods for their hides by the luxury leather market. The problem continued around poaching and destruction of the remaining crocodile resource by fishery activities either direct or indirect, lethal effect of set nylon nets being used in fishing, disappearance of habitat of the sand-banks (which is essential for gharial nesting) replaced by concrete embankments, loss of riverine-habitats by dam-construction for irrigation or hydroelectric schemes. As a result, these crocodilian species came on the verge of extinction.

Crocodile hunting is now legally banned in India. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 lists both species of crocodile and gharial under Schedule I which affords total protection at all times. Similarly, Export I Instruction No 46/73 forbids the export of crocodiles and gharials, their hides or products therefrom.

Project Crocodile Breeding and Management was started as the report given by FAO expert, Dr. H.R. Bustard in 1974, stating “only management will restore the crocodile quickly and it appears that without management, the gharial will become extinct”. The actual project was started on April 1, 1975 in Orissa. Gharial eggs were collected and hatched for the first time in captivity anywhere in the world at Tikerpada, District Dhenkanal, Orissa, in June 1975. A small batch was also hatched at Kukrail near Lucknow the same year.

The Tikerpada hatched gharials were successfully reared for subsequent release back into the wild. At the same time, a Saltwater Crocodile Project was initiated in the tidal mangrove forests at Bhitar Kanika, District Cuttack, Orissa, and a Mugger Project and a Captive Breeding Project were also initiated, the latter for capitive-breeding of all three species was located at Nandankanan Biological Park, Orissa. All these projects were started by the Government of India under the help and guidance of FAO and UNDP. The Head Office of the Project is at Hyderabad.

The project has main functions such as:

(i) Conservation and Management of Crocodiles and Development of Sanctuary;

(ii) Rehabilitation of Crocodiles.

Conservation and Management of Crocodiles and Development of Sanctuary:

For the conservation of crocodile/mugger, their eggs are collected and hatched and reared in sanctuaries and released in rivers after attaining proper length of 1.2 metre. With the development of husbandry centres, steps have been taken to gazette and manage sanctuaries in ideal habitat areas for all three crocodilian species into which individuals were reared in. The various husbandry centres could be released when they attain a length of 1.2 metres.

The first sanctuaries to be gazetted in the country were Satkoshia Gorge Sanctuary and Bhitar Kanika Sanctuary, both in Orissa, Tristate Chambal Sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh-Rajasthan-Uttar Pradesh and the Katerniaghat Sanctuary in northern Uttar Pradesh (Uttaranchal). With the exception of Bhitar Kanika, declared for the saltwater crocodile, these sanctuaries were all for gharial, which due to its critically endangered status, was given prime attention during the early stages of the project.

The management of sanctuaries is, of course, a long-term task, but immediate steps were taken to try to cut down disturbances which resulted in the loss of many animals (for instance, fishing with nylon gill-nets was immediately banned in all four sanctuaries mentioned above), to implement protection and to make a start on implementing management plans (the first of which was ready in December, 1980).

Young crocodiles of size 1.2 metre are released into ideal areas of the natural habitat in small batches in early spring. Selected areas are specifically managed in the sanctuaries. This includes following cares- (a) Location of release-ideal habitat areas should be located where they will be free from disturbances, (b) Timing of release-it is important that the release be carried out at a time when water levels are low so that the young crocodiles can gain an intimate knowledge of their future home-range prior to the onset of the monsoon floods. The ideal time in South India is early February, this may be delayed by 4-6 weeks in the extreme North of the country.

Rehabilitation of Crocodiles:

Crocodiles breed in the end of winter. In the end of March or in the first week of April, the pregnant female makes 10-15 circular ditches of radius 30 – 50 cm in the sand of the river’s bank. Out of these 10-15 ditches, she lays whole of its eggs in one ditch and covers all the ditches by sands. The aim to construct more than one ditch is to protect the eggs from predators like jackals, etc. At a time, the female lays up to 100 eggs. Male and female crocodiles also watch the ditch in the night. Under the effects of heat and moisture of the Sand, the embryos develop and hatch in 60-70 days (incubation period) duration.

The timing of hatching of youngs from the eggs is acknowleded by the female by hearing special sound emitted by them. On hearing such sound, the female takes out the youngs by removing sand of the ditch. The young are removed by the female from the unhatched eggs also by breaking it. After this, the female brings the youngs into water keeping them on its back and looks after them till the next breeding season. But even after taking so much care, large number of youngs are eaten by fishes, jackals, birds and crocodiles themselves and very less number of youngs survive in nature.

(i) Gharial:

Gharial rehabilitation started in 1977 with release of 26 individuals into Mahanadi river, Orissa. By January, 1980, 107 individuals had been released into Mahanadi where the wild population had been reduced to 5 individuals. 3 individuals were also released in Rajasthan in a trial release in October, 1977. Large scale releases by Uttar Pradesh (into the National Chambal Sanctuary) commenced in May, 1979, and between then and late March, 1980, 185 were released. The total number of gharial released by the end of March, 1980, totalled 324.

(ii) Saltwater Crocodile:

The first saltwater crocodile release occurred in Bhitar Kanika Wildlife Sanctuary, also in Orissa, on April 27, 1977. By January, 1980, a total of 125 had been introduced into this one sanctuary. The total release up to May, 1980, including 40 released in West Bengal and 3 in Andhra Pradesh, was 168.

(iii) Mugger:

The first release of Indian mugger took place on February 7, 1977, with 4 individuals being released at Ethipothalla, Andhra Pradesh. This group has now been strengthened to 8 individuals and a further 33 have been released into Kinnersani Wildlife Sanctuary of Andhra Pradesh (March, 1980). On March 9-10, 1979, 130 were released in Tamil Nadu followed by 47 on May 29, 1979, hence, a total of 218 individuals have been introduced.

Short Essay on Sanctuaries in India
Wildlife Sanctuaries in India | Ecology

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Essay on Wildlife Conservation

500+ Words Essay on Wildlife Conservation

Going by the importance of climate change and associated topics are garnering importance worldwide, an essay on Wildlife Conservation for students in English is an expected topic in the English exams. To prepare well in advance Vedantu has brought this essay for you. It is written by experts having expertise in English. Enough data and content are brought to you so that you can recall maximum points in the exam. This will ensure you achieve amazing marks in the English examination.

Let’s Being with the Essay on Wildlife Conservation for Students in English

Like forests, wildlife consisting of animals, birds, insects, etc. living in the forest is a national resource, which not only helps in maintaining the ecological balance but is also beneficial for various economic activities that generate revenue from tourism. The rich flora and fauna also play a major role in maintaining the ecological balance of a region. There was a time when human needs were minimal and there was bare interference in the wildlife. There is no denying the fact that due to urbanization, pollution, and human interventions wildlife is rapidly disappearing from the planet.

Today the biodiversity of the world is threatened due to the extinction of species. There are thirty-five hotspots around the world, which supports 43% of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians as endemic. The IUCN has compiled a list of species and has classified the different species under extinct, critically endangered, less endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, and least concerned. This list is called the Red Data Book. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the number of birds, animals, marine and freshwater creatures has dropped by almost one-third of its earlier population.

Causes for Decline or Threat to Wildlife

One of the major reasons for the constant decline of wildlife is human’s ever-increasing demands and greed that have led to deforestation and habitat destruction. For development and urbanization, man has chopped down trees to build dams, highways, and towns and this has forced the animals to retreat further and further into the receding forests.

Rapid industrialization and urbanization due to the fast growth in population in recent decades have taken a heavy toll on wildlife. Global warming and extensive environmental pollution have largely threatened wildlife as they lead to habitat destruction and rising temperature.

There is a huge demand for animal fur, skin, meat, bone, etc. across the globe that has led to a decrease in the wildlife population. Poachers kill the animals for the illegal trading of their body parts. For example, elephants are massively poached for ivory, rhinoceros are poached in Assam for their horns. The desire to keep animals in captivity or their desire to consume certain animals as exotic food has resulted in the disappearance of many animal species such as tigers and deer.

Forest fires, food shortage, increase in the number of predators, extreme weather conditions and other extraneous reasons have led to the extinction and endangerment of many species. For instance, the recent forest fires in the Amazon (Brazil), Uttarakhand (India), Australia, etc. lead to the death of many animals every year.

Many types of animals, birds, and fauna are needed to retain the ecological balance. They are considered necessary for scientific research and experiments that will benefit mankind.

Steps to Conserve Wildlife

The protection and conservation of wildlife is the need of the hour. Some conservation efforts which are widely implemented are given below:

Afforestation:

First and most importantly, humans need to have control over their needs. We need to prevent man from felling trees unnecessarily. Trees should be replanted if they are felled.

Pollution is one of the major causes that have led to the destruction of the habitat of animal species. Pollution of the environment like air pollution, water pollution, and soil pollution hurts the entire ecosystem. It has become of utmost importance to control environmental pollution.

More campaigns must be launched to raise awareness in humans on the need to keep our environment clean. A man should be responsible to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem so they should be cordial with the environment. More organizations like PETA should be set up to create awareness among people for the protection of wildlife.

Population:

The man should consciously put a check on the rapid growth of the population. The slow growth of population will decrease the rate of urbanization and that will have a major impact on the preservation of wildlife.

Wildlife Sanctuaries:

Wildlife sanctuaries should be made to ensure the protection of the areas of ecological significance. Under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 various provisions for protecting habitats of wildlife are made by constructing national parks and sanctuaries. These parks and sanctuaries ensure the protection and maintenance of endangered species.

Ban of Illegal Activities:

Illegal activities like hunting, poaching, and killing animals, birds, etc. for collections and illegal trade of hides, skins, nails, teeth, horns, feathers, etc. should be strictly prohibited and severe punishments and fines should be imposed on people who do these kinds of activities.

Community initiatives

Communities come together to take various conservation initiatives such as the establishment of community forests, raising their voice against illegal activities, creating awareness among the masses, raising voice for the rights of the animals, conserving animals of cultural significance, and many more. For example, members of the Bishnoi community of Rajasthan are very vocal against poaching activities in the region.

Many countries have taken the initiative to help animals by proclaiming various birds and animals either as national animals or as protected species. In India, the government has launched a program of Joint Forest Management to protect the wildlife and their habitat. Under this program, responsibilities have been assigned to the village communities to protect and manage nearby forests and the wildlife in them. Animal species have the right to live just like humans. Therefore, we should take every step to conserve them and ensure their survival and betterment.

Wildlife is an integral part of our planet. Wildlife plays a significant role in the ecology and the food chain. Disturbing their numbers or in extreme cases, extinction can have wide-ranging effects on ecology and humankind. Valuing and conserving forests and wildlife enhance the relation between man and nature. We want our future generation to be able to hear the lions roar and peacocks dancing with their extravagant feathers and not just see them in picture books. We must take steps today or else it will be too late and we should always remember

“Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's needs, but not every man's greed.”

-Mahatma Gandhi

FAQs on Essay on Wildlife Conservation

1. How is Wildlife Important for Humankind?

Wildlife comprises animals, birds, insects, and aquatic life forms. They provide us with a number of products, such as milk, meat, hides, and wools. Insects like bees provide us, honey. They help in the pollination of flowers and have an important role to play as decomposers in the ecosystem. The birds act as decomposers by feeding on insects. Birds like vultures are known as scavengers and cleansers of the environment by feeding on dead livestock. Thus, wildlife helps in maintaining ecological balance.

2. Why Should we Conserve Biodiversity?

We should conserve biodiversity because it is very significant for all living organisms and for the environment. We must conserve biodiversity to save it from becoming extinct.

3. Why are Animals Poached?

The animals are hunted and poached for collection and illegal trade of skins, fur, horns, skins, and feathers.

4. Write Two Steps that the Government has Taken to Conserve Wildlife.

The two steps that the government has taken to conserve wildlife are:

In order to conserve wildlife, the government has established national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves.

Many awareness programs are launched by the government to create awareness of protecting wildlife.

5. What is the importance of essays on Wildlife Conservation for students in English?

Essay on Wildlife Conservation is a topic given to students because it serves many purposes and holds a lot of importance in the present times. Before starting the essay, students will do adequate research to get enough data about the topic. In the process, they will learn a lot about wildlife conservation. While writing this essay they will learn to empathize with the plight of the animals. Also, they will become better at expressing themselves in written words by writing an essay on this topic as it is a very sensitive topic. This essay will not just help them in fetching excellent marks but it will also sensitize them about the current happenings.

6. What message does an essay on Wildlife Conservation for students in English carry?

Essay on Wildlife Conservation for students in English carries a very significant message that emphasizes the importance of the conservation efforts taken and that are needed. The essay talks about the efforts which have already been taken and are under implementation and it also talks about what needs to be done in the future. It also talks about why we need to conserve wildlife and what significance it holds. Overall the central message of the essay is to conserve and protect the wildlife as much as we can.

7. What important points should be covered while writing an essay on Wildlife Conservation for students in English?

As such there are no rigid pointers that you need to cover while writing an essay on Wildlife Conservation, but you may use the following pointers for reference:

Definition of wildlife conservation

Explain the reasons for conserving the wildlife with valid points

Efforts that are taken by international agencies. This should also include various treaties and protocols signed

Mention the efforts that are taken by the Indian government. Talk about various laws and legislations present.

Mention various provisions on the local level

Talk about various popular civil movements such as efforts undertaken by the Bishnoi Community

What can you do as students to conserve wildlife? Give suggestions and examples.

8. What steps taken by the government should be mentioned in the essay on Wildlife Conservation?

The Indian government has undertaken various measures to conserve wildlife in the country. You can mention some of these in the essay on Wildlife Conservation:

Wildlife Conservation Act, 1972

Schedules involved and protections provided to the animals

Conservation efforts for particular animals like tigers, elephants, etc.

Formation of various protected areas such as National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Biosphere reserves, etc.

Awards and accolades received by India on various international forums

Various international treaties and agreements were signed by India.

Mention names of international grouping dedicated to conservation efforts whose India is a part of

You may refer to Vedantu’s forum to get more information about steps to conserve wildlife.

9. In how many words should one write an essay on Wildlife Conservation?

Word count for writing an essay on Wildlife Conservation for students in English can vary depending on which standard the student is studying in. it can range from 300 words to 800 words. Accordingly, the level of writing and richness of the content should vary. You can refer to Vedantu’s guide on essays for further understanding the demand of any given topic. If the essay is being written by a student studying in class 10 then the essay should be data and opinion-driven. It should reflect the ideas and thoughts of the student that are substantiated with authentic data and valid reasons.

Wildlife Conservation Essay

500+ words essay on wildlife conservation.

After the evolution of humans, we have changed the land cover of the planet Earth. Wildlife means species of animals living in their natural habitats and not domesticated by humans. Wildlife is found in almost all grasslands, plains, rainforests, ecosystems, deserts, etc. It maintains stability in our environment and is involved in natural processes both directly and indirectly. So, living organisms found in the forest region are also considered wildlife. Every living organism plays a crucial role in the food chain: producer, consumer, or decomposer. All these roles are connected and depend on each other for survival.

Some of the primary reasons that lead to wildlife destruction are the increase in demand for meat leads to hunting, deforestation leads to scarcity of food and space, and natural disasters like floods and earthquakes cause wildlife destruction.

In India, we have a diversity of wildlife. It is a hub of a variety of animals. The ecosystem of India ranges from the Northern Himalayas to the evergreen rainforest of the south, the Western Ghats of the west, to the marshy mangroves of the east. The national animal of India, the Tiger, is found in various parts. Various national parks and sanctuaries have been set up to save tigers.

Wildlife helps in maintaining the ecological balance. Before, the count of wild animals was much greater, but the development of farming, developmental activities and hunting has led to a decrease in the number of wild animals. But, now, due to human interference, wildlife is getting affected and we are now becoming increasingly concerned about their safety and conservation. Unfortunately, many animals are already extinct due to these reasons, and a few of them are on the verge of extinction. So, it is crucial to safeguard these rare wildlife species. This essay on Wildlife Conservation will look at its significance and tackle the situation.

Deforestation

Deforestation means cutting down trees from forests at a large scale for human activities. It is an unavoidable environmental concern as it leads to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, disturbance in the water cycle and damage to natural habitats. It is also a significant contributor to global warming and climate change.

Approximately forests cover 31% of the Earth’s total land surface. Between 2000 and 2012, over 568 million acres of forest have been claimed by deforestation. In 2018, approximately 9 million acres of virgin tropical forest were cut down. 20% of the world’s oxygen supply comes from the Amazon rainforest. Due to deforestation, every minute, approximately 1.32 acres are lost.

Due to road construction, pollution, and agricultural development, our wildlife is disturbed. Due to illegal hunting, some wild animals are on the verge of extinction.

We should be serious about wildlife conservation because much of wildlife is being rapidly wiped off the earth. The World Wildlife Fund is a global organisation that works towards wildlife protection. National agencies are also involved in wildlife conservation.

Importance of Wildlife Conservation

For our ecosystem, wildlife is an essential aspect. Below, we have listed a few reasons to conserve wildlife:

For medicinal values – Wild plants cover one-third of the pharmaceutical needs. Forests provide great scope for experiments and research for medical science and technology. It also offers excellent scope for the large-scale manufacture of therapeutic medicines.

Keeps our environment healthy – It helps in balancing temperatures globally. It also helps in fighting against the greenhouse effect and controlling the rising sea levels.

Helps in maintaining ecological balance – The interdependence of plants and animals is essential in this aspect.

Economic importance – From forests, we can obtain raw materials which help in the country’s economic growth and contribute to a better standard of living.

How can we conserve wildlife?

Wildlife can be conserved by a strict observance of the following points:

We can protect our wildlife by building more national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to protect animals in natural habitats.
Species that are vulnerable and endangered should be kept in zoos or sanctuaries and bred for population increase.
Deforestation should be prohibited strictly. Forests are home to a variety of wild animals.
We should ban hunting animals.

Conclusion of Wildlife Conservation Essay

If all the animals are safe, people can live a very social and happy life. They are an integral part of our life. Some people harm animals because of their personal needs. We should all stop this and save them from getting beaten up or tortured because these innocent beings can’t speak up as we do.

From our BYJU’S website, students can also access CBSE Essays related to different topics. It will help students to get good marks in their exams.

Frequently asked Questions on Wildlife conservation Essay

How does wildlife imbalance affect the human species.

All species on Earth are inter-related to one another and the sustenance of all these species is necessary. Humans are dependent on other species and also on the eco-system for various needs.

How to write a 500+ words essay within the stipulated time?

Students must practise writing essays on a regular basis to gain the necessary speed and momentum to write 500+ words essay.

Which topics are to be asked in the Board exam essay question (most probable)?

The topics for essay can be asked from a wide list as this is a generic question. However topics of national importance and issues regarding equality, etc can be given more importance.

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Essay on Wildlife in India

Students are often asked to write an essay on Wildlife in India in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Wildlife in India

Introduction.

India, a country rich in biodiversity, is home to numerous species of flora and fauna. The country’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the Himalayan peaks to the coastal plains, provide a suitable habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Wildlife Species

India hosts a plethora of wildlife species. Majestic creatures like Bengal tigers, Asiatic lions, elephants, and rhinoceroses roam its lands. The country also shelters a multitude of birds, reptiles, and insects.

Wildlife Conservation

India has undertaken significant steps in wildlife conservation. Numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries have been established to protect and preserve the diverse wildlife. However, threats like poaching and habitat loss persist.

The wildlife in India is a treasure that needs to be cherished and protected. It is an integral part of our ecosystem and plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nature.

Also check:

10 Lines on Wildlife in India

250 Words Essay on Wildlife in India

India, with its diverse ecosystems, is a treasure trove of wildlife, boasting a rich tapestry of species, some endemic to the subcontinent. The country’s wildlife is not merely an aesthetic or scholarly interest, but a keystone in the ecological balance that supports life itself.

India’s Wildlife Diversity

India’s geographical diversity, ranging from the Himalayas’ snowy peaks to the arid deserts of Rajasthan, the fertile Gangetic plains to the dense forests of the Western Ghats, provides habitats for a variety of wildlife. The country is home to over 7.6% of the world’s mammalian, 12.6% of avian, 6.2% of reptilian, and 6.0% of flowering plant species.

Notable Species

India houses many endangered and endemic species. The Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, Indian Elephant, and Indian Rhinoceros are among the most iconic. The country also hosts a plethora of bird species, including the Indian Peafowl, our national bird.

Conservation Efforts

India’s commitment to wildlife conservation is evident in its network of over 500 wildlife sanctuaries, 18 Bio-reserves, and 104 National Parks. The Project Tiger, Project Elephant, and various bird conservation programs illustrate the country’s proactive approach to preserving its natural heritage.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite these efforts, India’s wildlife faces threats from habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. The future of wildlife conservation in India depends on balancing development with ecology, enforcing stricter wildlife laws, and fostering a culture of conservation among its citizens.

In conclusion, India’s wildlife is a testament to the country’s rich biodiversity. It is a precious resource that needs our collective efforts for its preservation and survival.

500 Words Essay on Wildlife in India

Wildlife in India is a rich tapestry of biodiversity, shaped by the country’s diverse ecosystems. From the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas to the dense greenery of the Western Ghats, India is home to a myriad of species, many of which are unique to the subcontinent.

The Expanse of Indian Wildlife

India’s wildlife is characterized by over 500 wildlife sanctuaries, 18 Bio-reserves and more than 120 national parks, spanning the country’s diverse geographical and climatic zones. These protected areas are home to over 350 species of mammals, 1,200 bird species, and around 30,000 types of insects, not to mention countless plant species.

India’s wildlife is marked by iconic species such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, the Asiatic Lion, the Indian Elephant, and the Indian Rhinoceros. The country’s avian life is equally diverse, with species like the Indian Peafowl, the Great Indian Hornbill, and the Siberian Crane, which migrates to India every winter.

Threats to Indian Wildlife

Despite its richness, Indian wildlife faces severe threats. Deforestation, habitat fragmentation, climate change, and poaching are among the most pressing issues. Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to significant habitat loss, pushing many species towards the brink of extinction.

Poaching, driven by the illegal wildlife trade, has targeted species such as the tiger and the rhinoceros for their body parts, used in traditional medicine or as status symbols. Climate change, meanwhile, has altered habitats and disrupted migration patterns, posing a significant threat to India’s biodiversity.

In response to these threats, India has implemented several conservation strategies. The Project Tiger, Project Elephant, and the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 are among the most notable initiatives aimed at preserving these iconic species.

The government has also established an extensive network of protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Community-driven conservation, where local communities are involved in protecting wildlife and their habitats, has also shown promising results in several parts of the country.

The wealth of wildlife in India is a testament to the country’s ecological richness. However, the threats facing this biodiversity are significant and require urgent attention. Through a combination of government initiatives, community involvement, and global cooperation, it is possible to safeguard India’s wildlife for future generations. The preservation of wildlife is not just about protecting individual species but about ensuring the health of ecosystems and, ultimately, the well-being of human societies.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Essay on Startup Ecosystem in India
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Happy studying!

Wildlife Conservation Strategies and Management in India: An Overview

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There is a realization that managed forests and other natural areas in the landscape matrix can and must make significant contributions to biodiversity conservation. Often, however, there are no consistent baseline vegetation or wildlife data for assessing the status of biodiversity elements across protected and managed areas for conservation planning, nor is there a rapid and efficient means to acquire those data. We used a unified vegetation classification and simple animal sampling design to describe the patterns of abundance of selected mammals as indicator, or characteristic, species in different vegetation types and protected areas vs. managed forest units in the Terai Conservation Area (TCA) in northern Uttar Pradesh state, India. We quantified the relative abundance of 15 mammals of conservation concern from dung counts in vegetation sampling plots within 122 sample patches in 13 vegetation types and 4 management units. Assemblages of species differed both among vegetation types and among management units. Species assemblages in the two protected areas differed strongly from those in two managed forests. Grasslands in protected areas were the most species diverse among vegetation types and had several indicator species. Protected forests were dominated by chital (Axis axis) and nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) in a second species group. A third species group in open grasslands and savannas in managed forests was characterized by cattle (Bos taurus) and Indian hare (Lepus nigricollis). Protected areas clearly are the core conservation area of the TCA for their relatively high habitat value and species diversity, and their protected status minimizes human disturbance. Impacts of human use are high in managed forests, indicating their compromised value for biodiversity conservation. Our simple assessment methodology gives managers a simple way to assess the status of important mammals across landscape conservation units.

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This is a chapter from the Encyclopedia of Life Support Systems EOLSS Volume 5.35 Range and Animal Sciences and Resources Management (2011). The volume is edited by Victor Squires. Rangelands comprise over forty percent of the earth's land surface and, as one of the most prevalent land systems on the planet, rangelands are critical habitats for myriad plant and animal species and form many of the world's major watersheds e.g. the three major rivers that arise in the Tibet plateau (Mekong, [Langcan], Yellow River and the Yangtze), the Orange River that arises in Lesotho and runs across South Africa and Namibia, the Amu-Daria and Syr-Daria rivers that flow across the Southern Kazakh steppe, the Kyzyl-Kum and Karakum desert in Central Asia, as well as the Euphrates and the Tigris that flow through rangelands in southern Turkey, Syria and Iraq. Rangelands are categorized in two distinct ways: (a) as a type of land or (b) a type of (land) use. For many years the literature and the " science " of range management was centered on the type of use (mainly livestock grazing) but of more recent times the definition has been amended to be more inclusive. Rangelands are those parts of the world where pastoral people graze native and domestic herbivores on native vegetation. Here the natural and fossil resources are utilized by other people for a host of purposes, including: water, fossil fuels, mineral ores and other saleable commodities as well as " invisible' ecosystem services such a watersheds, carbon sequestration, and tourism, For the purposes of this essay rangelands are defined as " uncultivated land that will provide the necessities of life for grazing and browsing animals and the herder families that depend on them. Therefore it includes deserts, forests and natural grasslands and shrublands. " Rangelands have a key role as grazing lands for pastoral uses, as wildlife habitat and as biosphere reserves and this will be the focus of this volume. Appropriate management is essential for all these uses if we are to prevent degradation of the resources that provide the base for all the activities that occur now on rangelands or may occur in the future. The development of thinking that underpins the science and management of rangelands in both North America and elsewhere is outlined and new paradigms are explained. Rangelands are mostly thought of as being in the drier regions (drylands) and this is certainly the case for most of them but upland areas and some cold lowlands (notably in Iceland and the tundra region above 60 o N latitude) are also classified as rangelands. Drylands, as defined by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), include the arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid zones and cover almost 54 million km 2 of the globe. The definition is based on the length of the growing season. The zones falling between 1-74 and 75-119 growing days represent the arid and semi-arid drylands respectively. Many of the world's drylands are grazed rangelands. Semi-arid areas are most extensive, followed by arid areas and then dry sub-humid lands. These drylands are spread across all continents, but are found most predominantly in Asia and Africa where the principal land use is as rangeland used for herding and opportunistic agro-pastoralism.

Shafique Matin

Characterizing biological richness at the landscape level is conveniently done using the plant as an indicator of biota. The congruence between plant and animal biological richness (BR) was studied by extending the scope of methodology from past studies in order to understand the question; does higher plant richness encourages higher animal richness? Using satellite images, 16 forest vegetation classes to integrate BR attributes for 85 plants and 271 animal species were derived. Plant BR analysis linked six biodiversity attributes (i.e., spatial, phytosociological, social, physical, economic and ecological) together based on their relative importance. The information of four terrestrial animal taxa (i.e., mammal, bird, reptile and amphibian) from various resources was utilized over five surrogates of biological richness (habitat suitability, spatial heterogeneity, eco-climatic stability, plant structural properties, and forage). A methodological basis of spatial enumeration of animal richness was provided in one of the most biologically rich landscapes of India, forming part of Indian Gangetic plains. It was observed that positive congruence between BR of plant and animal with a spatial overlap of 82.23% for the inclusive BR. Significant positive correlation (R 2 : 0.7) was observed for high BR values (7–9) of animal and plant. Authors believe the strengths of our study are (i) translation of animal characterization onto a spatial map, (ii) collection and utilization of scattered data of animals from varied resources for Indian region where proper documentation is lacking (iii) generation of an inclusive BR map having higher conservation potential, and (iv) creation of a database having retrieval and future modification capability. This methodology has the potential for inclusive plant and animal biological richness for effective conservation implications with more site-specific data of a wider range of animals.

Dhaaranee Naidu

5 WAYS CLIMATE CHANGE AFFECTS INDIA’S WILDLIFE

Climate change is no longer a looming threat on the horizon that we’re still centuries away from. With May 2022 having seen record-setting heat waves across India, it’s evident that rising temperatures are here to stay in the years to come. If the trend continues with no preventive measures taken by governments and mega-corporations across the world, the next decades will see people and animals bearing the brunt of the consequences brought on by the climate crisis.

India’s National Wildlife Action Plan for 2017 to 2031 has recognised the need for wildlife conservation efforts in India to adapt to climate change and promote sustainable biodiversity management in India.

Photo: Prakash Ramakrishnan

Water Scarcity

According to the data recently released in 2021 by Drought Early Warning System (DEWS), 21.06% of India faces drought-like conditions, with dry conditions seen in northern, central and eastern states including Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha. The consequential water scarcity affects the lives of wild animals in these regions. Driven by thirst, animals such as leopards, elephants, civet cats and foxes venture into human settlements in search of water.

Elephants too, need copious amounts of fresh water every day, the availability or lack of which affects their daily lives, breeding and migration patterns. In 2019, a study published by Frontiers in Diversity and Distributions claims that species redistribution will occur due to climate change – directly through extreme changes in temperature and access to water and indirectly through habitat loss. The study predicts that the Asian elephant’s range of habitat is likely to move towards higher elevations in the Himalayas, as can be seen by the frequent elephant sightings in Uttarakhand, as recently as July 2020.

An encounter in the arid forests of Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh with a sub-adult tiger attempting to drink from a shallow, dried-up puddle in the scorching heat of peak summer drove the Earth Brigade Foundation team to start Project Aquarius – a solar-power “Water for Wildlife” project. To date, we have installed water pumps in 10 reserves and national parks across India to provide clean drinking water for wild animals.

“ To reconnect with nature is key if we want to save the planet. “

-Jane Goodall

“ Siberian Crane – Keoladeo Ghana – India (1) ” by fveronesi1 is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 .

Migration Patterns

It’s not just the climate that is changing – bird migration patterns are seeing drastic variations from the norm too. Every year, birds migrate from their nesting grounds to warmer areas in search of abundant food sources. Birds residing in the Northern hemisphere make the journey south. Breeding in Siberia and Russia, the Siberian Crane overwinters in Asian countries including China, Iran and formerly, India.

With the increasing drought, habitat degradation and rising temperatures, the Indian visitors are now extinct, with the last flock being seen in 2015 .

“ Siberian Crane doing maternal things for family ” by Madhur Mangal aka Maddy is licensed under CC BY 2.0 .

Loss of Habitat

Habitat loss due to climate change is one of the major reasons for species extinction and loss of biodiversity. According to a paper published in Springer Nature, global warming in the coming decades will result in the habitat decline of the Indian brown mongoose in the Western Ghats. The habitat of this “temperature and altitude-dependent” small mammal could contract by anywhere between 20% (4,764 sq km) and 55.78% (13,233 sq km).

Depletion of Food Sources

The Snow Leopard’s high-altitude habitat is especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change. These animals spend most of their time above the tree line of the Himalayas, in the alpine grasslands. With global warming, the treeline in this region is likely to move significantly higher in the coming decades, shrinking and fragmenting the snow leopard habitat. Climate change also makes these alpine grasslands more vulnerable to degradation, leading to a drastic reduction in prey and depleting the leopard’s primary sources of food. In the near future, Forrest et al. (2012) estimate that snow leopard habitat in the Himalayas could be reduced by 30%, resulting in the loss of alpine grasslands – important for both snow leopards and their prey.

Population Decline

In Pakke Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh, a study by the IUCN Hornbill Specialist Group found that climate change is impacting the breeding period of two hornbill species in India.

As fruits that are part of the hornbill’s diet started fruiting earlier than usual in recent years due to a shift in weather patterns, the hornbills have adjusted their nesting period accordingly to ensure that they have no dearth of food, with February or March being the average time period. In 2022, it was seen that no birds entered their nests even in March, with a few entering in mid-April. With summer this year being unusually hot, the country has seen a record number of heatwaves. The region has seen extreme rainfall, temperature changes and unpredictable weather, factors that may be affecting the hornbill’s breeding window. Low fruit availability also plays a role in the reduced number of breeding birds.

Project Aquarius – A Water for Wildlife Initiative

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Earth Brigade Foundation (@earthbrigadefoundation)

Climate-informed wildlife conservation is a long game. With Project Aquarius, we aim to boost wildlife protection in India and reduce the burden on wildlife of finding access to clean water sources. These solar pump installations bring tangible benefits to wild animals, promoting their good health while also preventing their movement into human habitations in search of water, thereby minimising human-animal conflict.

We need all the help we can get to keep Project Aquarius going strong and doing our bit for wildlife conservation in India – get in touch if you’d like to support us!

EARTH BRIGADE FOUNDATION:

Email: [email protected]

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The Wildlife Conservation Efforts In India

by Jonny Duncan
October 30, 2023 November 5, 2023

These wildlife conservation efforts in India, a land renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife, from the majestic Bengal tiger to the graceful Indian elephant, and a multitude of other species show how the nation is trying to protect its native species.

The nation’s remarkable biodiversity is under constant threat due to habitat loss, poaching, climate change, and various other human-induced pressures. In response to these challenges, India has made significant strides in wildlife conservation efforts.

With a long history of protecting its natural heritage, the country has established an array of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation initiatives that serve as beacons of hope for both its indigenous wildlife and the global conservation community.

These efforts reflect India’s commitment to preserving its unique ecosystems and the intrinsic value of its wild inhabitants, while also recognizing the crucial role wildlife plays in the ecological and cultural tapestry of the nation.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts In India

India boasts a network of more than 850 protected areas, including national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation reserves.

These areas serve as critical habitats for a wide range of species, from tigers and elephants to endemic birds and plants.

These are the ongoing wildlife conservation efforts in India, highlighting the initiatives, policies, and successes that have emerged in the pursuit of safeguarding its extraordinary natural heritage.

Project Tiger

Project Tiger is a wildlife conservation program and one of the main wildlife conservation efforts in India that was launched on April 1, 1973. It was initiated by the Indian government with the primary objective of ensuring the survival and sustainable growth of the Bengal tiger population in the country.

The project was developed in response to the alarming decline in tiger numbers and the threat of extinction faced by this iconic species in India.

The primary aim of the project is to protect and conserve the Bengal tiger and its habitat to ensure the long-term survival of the species.

Project Tiger focuses on preserving and protecting the natural habitats of tigers, which are crucial for their survival. This involves efforts to reduce human encroachment and other disturbances in these areas.

The project involves the effective management of tiger populations, including monitoring their numbers, studying their behaviour, and implementing strategies to maintain a healthy breeding population.

To combat illegal hunting and poaching, Project Tiger involves the deployment of wildlife enforcement teams, as well as the establishment of laws and penalties to deter poaching.

Recognizing the role of local communities in tiger conservation, the project also encourages their participation in conservation efforts. This can include providing alternative livelihoods and incentives for protecting the tiger’s habitat.

Project Tiger emphasizes scientific research to better understand tiger behaviour, ecology, and conservation needs. It also focuses on educating the public about the importance of tiger conservation.

Over the years, Project Tiger has been largely successful in achieving its goals. It has contributed to the recovery of the Bengal tiger population in India, although the species still faces significant challenges due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.

There is a stunning documentary about these wildlife conservation efforts in India relating to Project Tiger (released Nov 4th 2023). This is the trailer:

Project Elephant

Project Elephant is a wildlife conservation effort in India that was launched in 1992 by the Indian government. It was initiated to address the conservation and management of the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) and their habitats.

India is home to a significant portion of the world’s wild Asian elephant population, and this project aims to ensure the survival and well-being of this iconic species.

The primary goal of the project is the conservation and protection of the Asian elephant population in India.

Project Elephant focuses on safeguarding and improving the natural habitats of elephants, as the availability and quality of habitats are critical for their survival.

Given the overlap between elephant habitats and human settlements, the project seeks to mitigate conflicts between elephants and local communities. This includes measures to reduce damage to crops, property, and human lives.

Project Elephant addresses the healthcare needs of elephants in captivity and in the wild. It also aims to control the population of captive elephants in order to prevent their exploitation.

The initiative emphasizes scientific research on elephants and their habitats, as well as training programs for wildlife personnel and veterinarians to enhance their understanding of and capacity to manage elephants.

Project Elephant seeks to raise public awareness about the importance of elephant conservation and educate communities living near elephant habitats about coexisting with these animals.

India’s Asian elephant population faces numerous threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-elephant conflicts. Project Elephant is crucial in addressing these challenges and protecting this species.

It has played a significant role in promoting the conservation and welfare of elephants in India and has been influential in setting the stage for elephant conservation efforts in other countries with Asian elephant populations.

Asiatic Lion Conservation Efforts

Asiatic lion conservation efforts primarily focus on the protection and preservation of the Asiatic lion, a subspecies of the lion found in the Gir Forest of Gujarat, India.

The Asiatic lion is an endangered species, and its population is primarily confined to the Gir Forest and its surrounding areas.

The Gir Forest and its surrounding areas have been designated as protected areas and national parks. Efforts are made to maintain and expand these protected areas to provide secure habitats for the lions. This includes the relocation of human settlements from critical lion habitats.

Strict anti-poaching measures are implemented to combat poaching and the illegal wildlife trade. This includes patrolling, surveillance, and the use of modern technology for monitoring lion movements and detecting threats.

Local communities living near lion habitats are actively engaged in conservation efforts. Community-based conservation programs are implemented to reduce human-wildlife conflicts, provide alternative livelihoods, and incentivize local support for lion conservation.

Conservationists conduct scientific research on Asiatic lions to better understand their behaviour, genetics, and health. Monitoring programs are in place to track lion populations and trends.

To mitigate the risk of a single catastrophic event affecting the entire population, efforts have been made to establish a second population of Asiatic lions in a separate location in India. In 2020, some lions were translocated to the Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh as part of this strategy.

Public awareness and education campaigns are conducted to inform people about the importance of lion conservation and to foster a sense of pride and responsibility toward the species.

National and international laws protect the Asiatic lion. India’s Wildlife Protection Act and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) offer legal protections for this subspecies.

Efforts to conserve the Asiatic lion have shown positive results. The population has increased over the years, although it remains vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, disease outbreaks, and other threats.

Ongoing conservation efforts are critical to ensuring the long-term survival and well-being of the Asiatic lion and is one of the main wildlife conservation efforts in India.

Indian Rhino Vision 2020

Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (IRV 2020) was indeed a significant wildlife conservation program in India with the goal of protecting and increasing the population of the greater one-horned rhinoceros.

The primary goal of IRV 2020 was to increase the population of Indian rhinoceros in Assam, India, to at least 3,000 individuals by the year 2020. This was initiated to reverse the decline in rhino numbers and promote their conservation.

The program was a collaborative effort involving the Assam Forest Department, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the International Rhino Foundation, and other organizations, both governmental and non-governmental.

One of the key strategies of IRV 2020 was to expand the range of the Indian rhinoceros by relocating some of the animals to suitable habitats outside their existing protected areas. This strategy aimed to reduce the risk of inbreeding and promote population growth.

The program included intensive anti-poaching efforts to protect rhinos from illegal hunting and habitat degradation. It involved deploying well-trained personnel and using advanced technology for monitoring and security.

Engaging local communities in rhino conservation and habitat protection was a significant aspect of the initiative. Communities were incentivized to support conservation efforts and protect rhino habitats.

Some rhinos were translocated to new, suitable habitats as a way to reduce the risk of diseases, genetic bottlenecks, and natural disasters affecting the entire rhino population.

Educational programs and public awareness campaigns were conducted to inform the public about the importance of rhino conservation and the need to protect this endangered species.

The program was successful in achieving its population growth target for the Indian rhinoceros in Assam. While the specific target year was 2020, conservation efforts for the Indian rhinoceros continue beyond this timeframe, with a focus on ensuring the long-term survival and well-being of this iconic species.

Reduction of Human-Wildlife Conflicts

The reduction of human-wildlife conflicts in India is a critical conservation and public safety issue and an important aspect of wildlife conservation efforts in India.

As human populations expand and encroach on natural habitats, conflicts with wildlife, such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and bears, become more common.

These conflicts can result in property damage, injuries, and fatalities for both humans and wildlife. To mitigate these conflicts, several strategies and initiatives are being implemented in India:

Protecting and preserving natural habitats and wildlife corridors is crucial to prevent animals from venturing into human settlements in search of food and water. It involves creating and maintaining safe pathways for wildlife movement between different habitat patches.

In areas prone to human-wildlife conflicts, early warning systems are implemented to alert communities about the presence of wildlife nearby. These systems use technology such as SMS alerts, sirens, or radio communication.

Physical barriers like electric fences and deep trenches can deter wildlife from entering human settlements. Properly designed and maintained fences can help protect crops and property.

Various non-lethal deterrents are used to discourage wildlife from approaching human areas. These include noise-making devices, lights, chilli smoke, and guard animals like dogs or trained elephants.

Implementing techniques like using certain types of crops that are less appealing to wildlife, like chilli, or providing compensation for crop loss can help reduce conflicts between farmers and wildlife.

Involving local communities in wildlife conservation efforts and decision-making processes can foster a sense of ownership and encourage their active participation in conflict resolution. Community-based initiatives can include crop insurance schemes and alternative livelihood programs.

Raising public awareness about coexisting with wildlife is vital. Educational programs, workshops, and outreach efforts can help communities understand the behaviour of local wildlife and learn how to respond to encounters safely.

In some cases, animals that pose a persistent threat to human safety are translocated to safer areas. This approach requires careful planning and monitoring to ensure the well-being of the animals.

Collecting data on human-wildlife conflicts and wildlife behaviour is essential for informed decision-making and the development of effective conflict mitigation strategies.

Enforcing wildlife protection laws and implementing penalties for illegal activities related to wildlife can act as a deterrent and promote coexistence.

Wildlife conservation organizations, government agencies, and local communities work together to implement these measures and promote coexistence with India’s diverse and often endangered wildlife species.

Conservation of Endangered Species

India is home to a wide range of endangered and critically endangered species, and protecting their populations and habitats is of paramount importance and one of the main wildlife conservation efforts in India.

India has established a network of national parks (as mentioned before), wildlife sanctuaries, and protected areas to safeguard the habitats of endangered species. These areas provide a safe haven for wildlife and promote their conservation.

Strong anti-poaching measures are essential to combat illegal hunting and the illegal wildlife trade. This includes patrolling, surveillance, and the use of modern technology for monitoring and enforcement.

Translocating individuals of endangered species to suitable habitats and reintroducing them to areas where they have become locally extinct can help expand their populations and range.

Scientific research is conducted to study the behaviour, genetics, and health of endangered species. Monitoring programs are essential to track population trends and identify threats.

Efforts are made to rescue and rehabilitate injured or orphaned individuals of endangered species, often with a focus on species like elephants and big cats.

Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are conducted to inform people about the importance of endangered species conservation and to foster a sense of responsibility toward these species.

National and international laws protect endangered species in India. The Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972, provides legal safeguards, and India is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

In some cases, conservation breeding programs are implemented to maintain populations of critically endangered species, such as the Indian rhinoceros and vultures.

Collaborating with non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and international agencies is essential to pool resources, expertise, and knowledge for the conservation of endangered species.

India has made significant progress in the conservation of its endangered species, with some species experiencing population recoveries.

However, continued efforts, research, and public support are required to ensure the long-term survival of these species and their habitats.

The success of these wildlife conservation efforts in India serves as an example of how diverse stakeholders can work together to protect the nation’s rich biodiversity.

Community-Based Conservation

Community-based conservation (CBC) in India is an approach to wildlife and environmental conservation that actively involves local communities living in and around protected areas and natural habitats.

This approach recognizes the importance of engaging local communities in conservation efforts, as their livelihoods and well-being are often closely intertwined with the environment and wildlife and is an important aspect of wildlife conservation efforts in India.

CBC programs aim to provide alternative and sustainable livelihood options for local communities that reduce their dependence on activities that harm the environment, such as illegal hunting or unsustainable resource extraction.

Local communities are encouraged to actively manage natural resources, such as forests and watersheds, to ensure their sustainable use. This often involves setting up community-based resource management committees.

CBC efforts focus on minimizing conflicts between wildlife and local communities. This may involve the development of strategies to protect crops from animals like elephants or establishing compensation mechanisms for losses due to wildlife.

Community members are educated about the importance of conservation and are made aware of the potential benefits of protecting natural resources and wildlife.

In some cases, formal agreements or partnerships are established between local communities and government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or wildlife authorities to outline roles, responsibilities, and benefits.

Many CBC initiatives promote responsible and sustainable wildlife tourism. ecotourism, creating economic opportunities for local communities while contributing to conservation.

The traditional knowledge of indigenous and local communities is valued and integrated into conservation efforts. This knowledge often proves invaluable in understanding wildlife behaviour and ecosystem dynamics.

There have been several successful CBC projects in India, such as the joint management of tiger reserves and protected areas, which have demonstrated the positive outcomes of community involvement in conservation and show positive impacts of wildlife conservation efforts in India.

International Collaboration

India actively participates in international conservation efforts and agreements, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Wildlife In India

Wildlife conservation efforts in India are an ongoing and dynamic process that requires continued dedication and innovation.

While significant progress has been made, challenges such as habitat loss, climate change, and poaching still pose threats to the nation’s diverse flora and fauna.

On a personal note, I loved the several months that I spent backpacking around India and was lucky to have some great wildlife encounters, such as seeing wild tigers in Kanha Tiger Reserve .

India truly is a magical place and all these wildlife conservation efforts in India will hopefully help protect these wild animals into the future.

For more on India take a look at these 10 best documentaries about India .

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Contextualising Landscape Ecology in Wildlife and Forest Conservation in India: a Review

Published: 11 February 2023
Volume 8 , pages 90–101, ( 2023 )

Cite this article

Vaishali Vasudeva 1 ,
Meera Makwana 2 ,
Kamana Pokhariya 2 ,
Orvill Jude Nazareth 2 , 3 ,
Shah Nawaz Jelil 2 ,
Meghna Bandyopadhyay 2 ,
Deepti Gupta 2 , 4 ,
Satyam Verma 5 , 6 &
Ramesh Krishnamurthy 1 , 2

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Purpose of Review

Biodiversity values frequently encounter challenges from developmental needs despite having strong forest and wildlife laws in developing countries like India. Landscape ecology offers the relevant scientific backstopping and sophisticated tools to support conservation of several species. To aid the future development of landscape ecology in India within current and emerging contexts, we reviewed the spatio-temporal and thematic trends in the published research involving forest and wildlife conservation.

Recent Findings

Spatial modelling and land use land cover change assessments have been well established conceptually and methodologically, but an increase in studies involving impact of climate change on species habitat suitability is comparatively very recent. Thematic research gaps in this field include impact of scale on ecological processes, and uncertainty and error quantification in modelling. Dedicated studies on characterisation of biodiversity and its dynamics in biogeographic transition zones can scientifically inform management of forest and wildlife.

The review of 494 peer-reviewed articles published between 1994 and 2021 showed an increase in published research on landscape ecology over time. We found that the studies were dominated by the ‘Pattern–Process–Scale’ related questions and spatially clustered in the Western Ghats (biodiversity hotspot) and Uttarakhand state. Considerable research efforts are required in riverine and coastal ecosystems. Nevertheless, the increasing trend of research across themes and regions is a positive indicator of the growing role of landscape ecology in forest and wildlife management in India.

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What evidence exists for landbird species-environment relationships in eastern temperate and boreal forests of North America? A systematic map protocol

Evolution and emerging research trends in the ecological impacts of landscape change: perspectives from a Chilean biodiversity hotspot

To what extent does surrounding landscape explain stand-level occurrence of conservation-relevant species in fragmented boreal and hemi-boreal forest?–a systematic review protocol

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Vaishali Vasudeva & Ramesh Krishnamurthy

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Meera Makwana, Kamana Pokhariya, Orvill Jude Nazareth, Shah Nawaz Jelil, Meghna Bandyopadhyay, Deepti Gupta & Ramesh Krishnamurthy

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Vasudeva, V., Makwana, M., Pokhariya, K. et al. Contextualising Landscape Ecology in Wildlife and Forest Conservation in India: a Review. Curr Landscape Ecol Rep 8 , 90–101 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40823-023-00084-z

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts in India, Importance of Wildlife Conservation

Wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem. It serves various purposes ranging from protecting our biological diversities to preserving our cultural ethos. Wildlife is indispensable for striking a balance that enables us to live and grow. However, with increasing modernization and globalization, we are facing a climate crisis and our wildlife in India is decreasing day by day. Now, we are learning about wildlife conservation in India and the Importance of Wildlife Conservation. The government has done wildlife conservation efforts in India. In this article, we will explore the meaning of wildlife conservation, the importance of wildlife conservation and the projects initiated by the government.

What is wildlife?

As the term “wildlife” itself suggests, it means undomesticated or grown in the wild. In simple terms, it refers to all the flora and fauna that live in their natural habitat.

The term wildlife is also defined under Section 2(37) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. As per the section, wildlife refers to any animal, either aquatic or territorial, and vegetation that constitutes our natural habitat. In simple words, it means all the plants and animals that live in the natural habitat will be considered our wildlife. These organisms are very important for maintaining the ecological balance and helping us to fulfil our needs.

Introduction of wildlife conservation

Wildlife conservation is the process of steps taken by us to protect the wild species and their natural home. Because wildlife is one of the most important parts of the earth’s ecosystem. Due to the increasing population of the world, humans are destroying wildlife for food and shelter.

The destruction of our nature, environment and wildlife can be easily observed. The overexploitation of resources led to irreversible damage to our ecosystem. So, there is a stringent need to protect our wildlife.

Wildlife Conservation Meaning

Wildlife conservation refers to a method of protecting wild species and their natural habitat from threats like poaching, smuggling, killing etc. Through their protection, we can ultimately enhance, protect or restore our vulnerable ecosystem.

Various wildlife conservation efforts must be taken at both the national as well as at international levels. A good number of NGOs are also working for the same cause.

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (popularly known as CITES) is considered one of the most important agreements inked at the international level in 1973. This agreement listed our various species into various categories for their conservation.

Types of Wildlife Conservation in India

There are mainly two types of wildlife conservation in India

Ex-situ conservation
In-situ conservation

In this, the species remain in their natural habitats and the places are protected by protecting the whole ecosystem of the place. For instance: wildlife sanctuary.

In this, the protection of biodiversity or wild animals is taken from their natural habitat and shifted to a new safe place for their conversion. For instance -the zoo.

Legal Provisions for Wildlife Conservation Efforts in India

In India, various laws provide for the conservation of wildlife, as well as overall biodiversity. The chief among them is the Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972 which was implemented to protect our wild animals, birds and plants. Further, a Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to curb illegal trade or smuggling of endangered species in the country. There are many constitutional provisions protecting the environment.

Under Article 51(g), the constitution of India also guarantees the protection of wildlife and compassion for living creatures. In addition to this, Article 48 also puts an obligation on the state to protect, safeguard and work for the improvement of forests and wildlife in the country. The subjects relating to the protection of wildlife are mentioned under the concurrent list , which means both the Centre and the state government are empowered to make laws on this subject.

In the case of the State of Bihar vs. Murad Ali Khan (1989 ), the Honourable Supreme Court held that hunting has been defined under Section 2(16) of the Wildlife Protection Act. If the same is done without the permission of the forest authorities, the offence is punishable under Section 51 of the Wildlife Act.

Increasing the population of the world is the main reason behind the destruction of wildlife. We must take the necessary steps for wildlife conservation because it is also connected to us. But the question arises why is wildlife conservation important or what is the importance of wildlife conservation?

Importance of Wildlife Conservation

Our daily activities like Logging, poaching and agriculture expansion are causing the extinction of wildlife and loss of biodiversity. Human activity is pushing wildlife species to near extinction. Due to the poaching, many species like rhinoceros and elephants are near extinction in Africa.

We are doing thousands of activities that are endangering the wildlife species in danger. We should do the conservation of forests and wildlife in India and every other country and protect these species because there are many benefits for humans and animals including taking steps for wildlife conservation. So, let us discuss the importance of wildlife conservation.

For the growth of crop

The small animals are like bees. Butterflies and birds play a vital role in the growth of crops and the production of food for humans. These animals aid in the pollination of crops. Pollination is dependent upon these insects. Whenever they travel from one flower to another, they carry pollen and make the process active.

For medicine

Plants are playing a major role in medicine but many animals are important for the production of medicine. The venom from the king cobra is used for the medicine of leprosy.

For relaxing the mind

People always go to zoos and forests to see the wildlife in their habitat. According to the research, the person who watches animals every day and walks in the natural habitat is more stress-free than others.

Watching wildlife documentaries

Whenever we get bored, we start watching wildlife documentaries where we learn thousands of things about survival and it relaxes our minds.

To preserve culture

There are many plants and animals which are recognized by our ancient culture. By doing wildlife conservation, we are saving our heritage and culture. Wildlife conservation in India is working on this as many trees and animals are recognized as God and Holy.

For tourism attraction

The main reason for tourism to any specific place is to see its flora and fauna and natural habitat. Tourism is the best source of earnings. So, if we save the wildlife and their natural habitat, then it will be a profitable deal for that place.

For the protection of biodiversity

Our food chain depends upon every animal. We take our food from nature, and it is important to make the balance in nature to save our food. Animals like tigers and lions depend upon other animals for their food. But if the tiger or the lion dies, the other animals will get more population and they will eat all the plants which can cause a shortage of food.

For ecological activity

Plants and trees are very important for our ecological system as they give oxygen which is most important for humans. It is also balancing the carbon dioxide and oxygen on the planet.

For education and learning

The wildlife is important for education and learning for the children. The importance of education in our lives is very important. By studying wildlife, we can find many new ideas for survival which are important for our growth. If we teach our children about the importance of wildlife conservation, then they will be able to recognize their duties against animals and plants.

For the research of new plants

The main point for the protection of wildlife is that we can research new plants and trees.

As the climate is changing day by day, it is possible that we need new types of plants which can provide us with food. The research of new plants can help us to identify new breeds of crops which can help us to survive in the future.

After reading all the points related to the importance of wildlife conservation, we can say that we must take major steps to save wildlife so that humans can survive on this planet for more time.

To preserve it for the future generation

Many species were on the planet before our birth and which are extinct due to human behaviour. And possibilities are that some other species will be instinctive from the earth if we do not understand the importance of wildlife conservation. Our future generation will be able to see most of the species in future if we take the steps for wildlife conservation.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts in India

The term Conservation has not been explicitly defined in Indian statutes, but for general understanding, it means preservation, protection or restoration. These efforts are undertaken to ensure that the resources shall be used sustainably and that future generation also has access to these resources. Wildlife is a part of nature and it is our responsibility to protect it.

Conservation efforts are undertaken to integrate evolutionary theory with environmental reality. It helps us to predict how our wildlife will react to future environmental changes. In our rituals, there is the explanation of many trees and animals which are still considered the sign of God and are worshipped as God. In my opinion, these are the best steps taken by our Ancestors to save such types of trees and animals which are more important for the survival of humans because almost all the trees and animals which we worship are important to us.

Wildlife Conservation Projects in India

The Indian government has initiated various projects to protect wildlife in the country. Some of them are briefly described below-

Project Tiger

The population of Indian Tigers started declining drastically as we were approaching the 20th century. A nationwide Tiger Census was conducted in 1972 to estimate the population of tigers in the country. From the finding, it came out that the large-scale development activities and establishment of industries led to deforestation, and further loss of habitat to the tigers.

So, keeping in mind the necessity, Project Tiger was launched in 1973 at the Palamau Tiger Reserve, Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand. It was a centrally sponsored scheme governed by the Wildlife Act, of 1972. For the administration of this project, the National Tiger Conservation Authority was set up under Section 38 of the Wildlife Protection Act in 2005.

In 1973, it started with 9 tiger reserves, but now it has substantially grown to fifty reserves. The Project has proven to be a significant success in the recovery of the tiger population in the reserved areas. As per the 2019 census, there are 2967 Bengal tigers in India.

Project Snow Leopard

Project Snow Leopard was launched in 2009 to encourage inclusivity and a participatory approach to the conservation of this endangered species.

The Snow Leopard mainly inhabits the Himalayan landscape along with some states such as Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, etc. Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and IUCN has declared the snow leopard as a vulnerable species. They have been accorded a very high conservation status both nationally and internationally.

To encourage their conservation, International Snow Leopard Day is celebrated on 23rd October each year. The Government also launched the ‘First National Protocol on Snow Leopard Population Assessment’ in the year 2019, which encompasses the use of technology such as camera traps and scientific surveys.

This initiative was started with the combined efforts of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program. More than 12 snow leopard countries including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Russia, China, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Mongolia are a part of this initiative.

Project Elephant

Elephants are the National Heritage of our country. India has more than 27,000 elephants spread over 26 elephant reserves but with utmost dismay, only 65% of the elephant corridors are in protected areas.

This project was launched in the year 1992 by the central government. It was implemented in 13 states and 88 elephant corridors were set up. Under this project, the Haathi mere Saathi Yojna was started by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in partnership with the Wildlife Trust of India. To give true effect to this project, The Elephants’ Preservation Act, of 1879 was enacted.

Sea Turtle Project

This project was launched in 1999 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with UNDP. The Olive Ridley Turtle visits India during Winter. The task of implementing the policies framed under this project has been assigned to the Wildlife Institute of India. It is placed in the Vulnerable category on the IUCN list.

Crocodile Conservation Project

The main objective of this project is to protect the population of crocodiles in their natural habitat. It is important to note that the “Gharial” is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN list.

Project Dolphin

Recently, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified the Ganges River Dolphin as a National Aquatic animal. It was listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.

Project Hangul

In the decade 1970, the Jammu and Kashmir Government in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) started a project for the protection of the Kashmir Red Stag and its habitat. This project was later on recognised as Project Hangul.

The Hangul or Kashmiri Red stag is a subspecies of the Central Asian Red Deer, which is mostly found in the region of Kashmir Valley and some parts of Himachal Pradesh. Initially, their population was approximately 5000 in number, but with growing urbanisation, it decimated to as low as 150 by the end of 1970. This project also aims to create an enclosure for the artificial breeding of the species.

India Adopts SAWEN

The term SAWEN stands for the “South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network”. It is an intergovernmental wildlife support body, which was launched in 2011 at Paro, Bhutan. The main objective of SAWEN is to establish mutual collaboration for wildlife protection. The member countries of SAWEN are Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Captive Breeding Program

It can be understood as a selection of particular wild species bred in an artificial condition under the supervision of experts. This method is perceived as the last chance to preserve a species in the wild.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts in India, Importance of Wildlife Conservation

Threats to wildlife conservation efforts In India

In the present times, natural resources are used in abundance and it led to the scarcity of endangered species. Their population is declining day by day. As per a recent report, the wildlife population has decreased by a whopping 68% since 1970. There are various reasons behind this and some of them are enumerated below-

Overpopulation

Since the human population is rising day by day, it results in an increasing demand for land and other things. The increasing demand for land ultimately results in deforestation which causes habitat loss to these animals.

It can be understood as the illegal trading of animals. It is increasing rapidly as the parts of animal bodies attract a very high value in the international market.

Overexploitation

It can be explained as making use of something over our capacity. At present, the diminishing rate of species is very much faster than its recovery. Some species are overtly exploited to meet our human wants, which is a serious threat to our ecosystem.

Climate change

Climate holds special importance in every aspect. In the past few decades, it has been observed that due to global warming, the temperature of the Earth is rising, which causes the melting of the glaciers, volcanic eruptions etc. Various species of the Himalayas have become extinct due to global warming.

Pollution is one of the major threats to wildlife. The various types of pollution including air pollution , water pollution , and soil pollution is becoming a serious cause of concern for us.

Natural or man-made Disaster

If we play with nature, it will play with us too!

We have reached a situation wherein we are witnessing deadly disasters almost every year. The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic is the best example for us, which put the entire world at a standstill. Apart from this, earthquakes, floods, and land degradation have become quite common.

Methods of Wildlife Conservation

The following are the methods of wildlife conservation in India

Habitat management:
Establishment of the protected area:
Rehabilitation of Endangered species:
Captive breeding programme:
Mass education:
Promulgation of laws:

Wildlife conservation FAQ

What is Conservation?

The meaning of conservation is to protect the natural world by taking some small and major steps toward our future. Because without the wildlife, humans will not survive for a long time.

What is wildlife conservation?

Wildlife conservation means the protection of wildlife. Wildlife is an important factor in our ecosystem, without their existence, the ecological balance will shift to an unbalanced state. There is a strong need for wildlife conservation. The action taken to save wild plant and animal species from extinction is called wildlife conservation.

No man or wild animal can imagine his life without nature.

How can we conserve wildlife?

We can make minor and major steps in our daily lives to conserve forests and wildlife, like fair use of natural resources.

Conclusion of Wildlife Conservation in India

Wildlife conservation is very essential for sustainable development. Wildlife conservation efforts in India are increasing now. Various efforts have been made at both the National and the International levels like Project Tiger, Project Elephant, Captive breeding program etc., But still, there is a long way to go. First and foremost, we should curb the overexploitation of our natural resources put a combined step toward a better world and start the program to show the importance of wildlife conservation in our life. So that the people should understand their responsibilities and use the natural source least and only for fair use.

Access to everything is dangerous, so we should take measures while using trees and animals for our food.

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Home » Indian Geography » Indian Flora & Faun » Forest Conservation

Forests are a unique gift of nature to man and constitute one of the prized assets of a nation. They are of both direct and indirect use, and hence are aptly termed as an ‘index of prosperity of a nation’ . Keeping in view the benefits which we derive from forests, it is of utmost importance that strong steps be taken to conserve forests

Forest conservation does not mean the denial of use, but rather the proper use without causing any adverse effect on our economy and environment. It is the practice of planning and maintaining forested areas for the benefit and sustainability of future generations

The following techniques could be used for forest conservation, which could eventually improve forested areas and make the available resources sustainable:

It is the planting of trees for commercial purposes
Instead of taking resources from existing natural forests, afforestation is a process used to plant trees and use them as resources instead of naturally existing forests.
It also creates habitat for wildlife, recreational areas, and commercial use while not causing harm to natural forests
Van Mahotsava was launched in 1950 to make people aware of the importance of planting trees
It is a method used to meet the needs of both the forests and humans seeking economical resources
Selective logging is the removal of trees within a stand based on size limitations
This technique allows for forest regeneration to occur between and after the selective harvest cycles
Forest fires are the most common and deadly cause of loss of forests
They can start due to natural causes or can be accidents caused by man
Hence, Precautions must be taken for such incidents. Making fire lanes, spreading chemicals to control fire, clearing out dry leaves and trees etc.
Slash and burn farming, overgrazing by cattle, shifting agriculture are all farming practices that are harmful to the environment and particularly to forests. Hence, these practices must be kept under control.
In the era of rapid urbanization and industrialization, clearing of forests either by encroachment or actual grant of permission is often done
Hence, strict policies should be in place, so as to avert forest land from urban encroachment

Forest Policy and Law for conservation

This was a simple extension of colonial forest policy, which became conscious about the need to increase forest cover to on-third of total land area
Weaning the primitive people by persuasion, from the harmful practice of shifting cultivation
Increasing efficiency of forest administration by having adequate forest laws
Providing facilities for forest research and for conducting research in forestry and forest products utilisation
Controlling grazing in forestry
This Act stipulated that the central permission is necessary to practice sustainable agro-forestry in forest areas. Violation or lack of permit was treated as a criminal offence
It targeted to limit deforestation, conserve biodiversity and save wildlife
This act provide hope of forest conservation, but wasn’t successful
It made a very significant and categorical shift from commercial concerns to focus on the ecological role of the forests and participatory management.
Maintenance of environmental stability through preservation and restoration of ecological balance
Check on soil erosion and denudation in catchment areas
Substantive increase in forest cover through massive afforestation and social forestry programmes
Increase in productivity of forests to meet national needs
It provides for the establishment of wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, etc.
The National Board for Wildlife was constituted to offer advice to the central government on issues of wildlife conservation in India
This was for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment and giving relief and compensation for damages to persons and property and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto
It seeks to provide an appropriate institutional mechanism, both at the Centre and in each State and Union Territory, to ensure expeditious utilization in efficient and transparent manner of amounts released in lieu of forest land diverted for non-forest purpose which would mitigate impact of diversion of such forest land.

What other initiatives/measures can be taken to conserve forests?

The Chipko Movement is a living examples of how general public action on forests can help conserve them
NGOs like the TREE Foundation, the Nature Conservancy, the Sierra Club, Center for Biological Diversity, and Rainforest Action Network offset deforestation and conserve threatened ecosystems around the world
In the absence of effective and environmentally-friendly governance in many areas, NGOs provide important organizational and monetary support for a variety of conservation efforts
There is a need to use one’s purchasing power in a high-impact way to prevent deforestation
Buying products that are certifies sustainable could help in certain manner to conserve forests
Inculcating the principles to value forests through education and promoting forests like a tourist centre could help people realise the crucial role forests play, and eventually make them more responsible

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Overview of Wildlife Conservation Efforts In India

Post author By Preksha
Post date June 22, 2023

‘Wildlife’ refers to plant and animal species living in their natural habitat. Wildlife conservation protects plant and animal species and their habitats.

As a component of the world’s ecosystems, wildlife contributes to the balance and stability of natural processes. Wildlife conservation efforts in India protect these species and educate people on how to coexist with other species sustainably.

Human population has increased exponentially in the last 200 years and has currently exceeded more than 7 billion people. The population continues to grow. Therefore, to sustain such an enormous population, earth’s natural treasures are being depleted at an unprecedented rate.

This growth and development threatens the habitats and survival of various species of wildlife around the world, especially animals and plants that have relocated for land developments or slaughtered for food or other diplomatic reasons.

Wildlife faces several issues, including invasive species from other parts of the world, climate change, pollution, hunting, fishing, and poaching.

Daily actions, such as logging, poaching, and agricultural expansion, are driving species to extinction and causing biodiversity loss. Wildlife species are being pushed to the brink of extinction due to human activity. Animals, such as rhinoceros and elephants, are on the verge of extinction as a result of poaching.

We engage in myriad activities that harm endangered wildlife species. We should conserve forests and wildlife in India and other countries and protect these species because these habitats have numerous benefits for humans and animals.

Table of Contents

What is Meant by Wildlife Conservation, and What are its Types?

The practice of safeguarding animal species and their habitats is known as wildlife conservation, and it encompasses both animals and their environments.

Generally, wildlife conservation efforts are implemented to protect species on the verge of extinction due to manmade causes. Pollution, climate change, and unjust laws are examples of such causes. Furthermore, quotas can lead to overhunting and an overabundance of wild animals in captivity.

Legislation such as the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 , the Endangered Species Act, the establishment and protection of public lands, and responsible public activities that conserve wild animal populations are all used to attain this goal.

Many efforts have been made to conserve animals at the international and national levels. Many non-governmental organisations are working to protect wildlife. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) was established in 1973 and is one of the most well-known international agreements. It categorises numerous species into different groups. Wildlife conservation can be classified into two categories:

Ex–Situ Conservation

‘Off-site conservation’ is the direct translation of ex situ conservation . This method involves preserving a nearly extinct plant or animal species, variety, or breed outside of its native surroundings.

For example, by evacuating a portion of a population from an endangered area and placing them in an enclosed environment similar to the individual animal’s native environment but under human care. Zoological parks and wildlife safaris are examples of such conservation categories.

In–Situ Conservation

In-situ conservation refers to the conservation and protection of ecosystems and natural habitats and the maintenance and retrieval of survivable populations of species in their natural surroundings, or, in the case of cultivated species, in the surroundings where their distinct and unique properties evolved.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts in India by the Government

The Indian government made the following measures to conserve wildlife:

Captive breeding program

Captive breeding is the practice of selecting wild animals and rearing them in controlled environments under the supervision of professionals. Such efforts could be the last chance for a species to survive in the wild.

Adoption of the South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network by India

South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN) is a support organisation for international wildlife enforcement. In 2011, it debuted in Paro, Bhutan. It was created to foster cooperation to harmonise and enforce wildlife protection. Afghanistan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the Maldives make up SAWEN.

Project Dolphin

The Ganges River Dolphin has been designated a National Aquatic Animal by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 included it in Schedule I. River water pollution, poaching, and siltation were recognised as severe hazards to dolphins.

Conservation Project for Crocodiles

The major objective of the conservation project of crocodiles is to protect the remaining crocodile population in its natural habitat—the IUCN lists ‘Ghariyal’ as Critically Endangered.

Sea Turtle Project

This project was initiated in 1999 by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change in conjunction with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Olive Ridley Turtle travels to India only during the winter. The Wildlife Institute of India is the project’s implementing agency. The classifications under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for the sea turtles are considered vulnerable.

Project Elephant

This project is a government-sponsored programme that began in 1992. The program is used in 13 states, and 88 elephant corridors were built. In collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change created the Haathi Mere Saathi scheme.

Project Tiger

This project is a government-sponsored programme that began in 1973 to conserve the endangered Indian Tiger. The tiger population has plummeted in recent decades, and the National Tiger Conservation Authority was established for this purpose. The initiative began with nine Tiger reserves and now has over 20. A tiger census is undertaken every 4 years.

Importance of Wildlife Conservation

Wildlife conservation is essential for a variety of reasons, including:

Ecosystem Harmony

All creatures play a role in ecology. When the population of an animal species declines, another species is in jeopardy. The natural food cycle is disrupted, and the ecology suffers.

Ecological Stability Protection

Droughts occur due to the degradation of water supplies and failure to preserve the animals and natural habitats. Furthermore, human activities like deforestation and logging harm the environment, and the maintenance of flora and fauna aids ecological stability.

Plants, for example, keep the environment’s oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in check. Therefore, plants play a major role in maintaining a healthy ecology.

Improve food, water, and air security

Human food security can be improved through wildlife conservation. It also contributes to agricultural diversification research. Food availability increases by protecting natural habitats from deterioration and forests from destruction. It guarantees that agricultural activities have access to sufficient and constant natural resources. As a result, food security is multiplied. It also guarantees that clean air and water are available.

Medicinal properties

The importance of animals in pharmaceutical products cannot get overstated. For example, cobra venom is required for the production of leprosy medicine. Lobsters can also get used as antifungals. Wildlife conservation also protects their natural habitat, critical for medicinal research and the pharmaceutical industry’s long-term viability.

Boost to tourism

Tourism, which is a major contributor to a country’s GDP, is negatively impacted when wildlife conservation is not prioritised. Many tourists like to spend their vacations in wildlife refuges, national parks, forests, and zoos. They also participate in various activities, such as camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. Wildlife conservation allows people to experience nature at its best while enhancing a country’s economic progress.

Preservation of heritage and culture

The local flora and wildlife is linked to livelihood and traditional practices in some areas. As a result, environmental conservation is critical to avoid the loss of native heritage and land. Africa Safaris include animals such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and elephants. The movement of tens of thousands of wild animals linked with the ‘Serengeti Plain’ ecosystem is another evidence of the importance of wildlife conservation in preserving tradition and culture.

Aiding of pollination and the survival of native plant species

Wildlife conservation is essential in crop production, intercropping, and maintaining the diversity of native plant species because they rely on nectar from flowers. Bees transfer pollen by travelling from one blossom to another in quest of nectar, sustaining crop growth. Insects, birds, butterflies aid pollination, and bees aid pollination. Therefore, their conservation is critical for food production.

Identification of plant and animal species for research

Even though animal study has increased in recent decades, it is estimated that many animals and plants are yet to be discovered. When most human drugs are derived from microbiological creatures, animals, and plants, protecting wildlife and their habitats becomes clear. Some researchers believe that drugs for some incurable diseases will most likely originate from yet-to-be-discovered animals or plants, emphasising the necessity to protect natural environments.

Opportunities for employment

Wildlife provides jobs for tens of thousands of jobs. Many individuals work in zoos or game parks where wild animals are present. Journalists also work in areas like these, producing documentaries about wildlife, the natural world, and other topics. Wildlife stimulates tourism. Tourists that visit national parks and sanctuaries look forward to staying in cabins in the woods. Many resorts are within walking distance of amusement parks. As a result, many people working in the wildlife, tourism, and hospitality industries rely heavily on wildlife protection.

For future generations

Conservation efforts will ensure that future generations will see today’s animals. Various animal species are on the verge of extinction due to human actions and other factors. The black and Javan rhinoceros, the South China tiger, the Sumatran elephant, the Amur leopard, the pangolin, the Cross River gorilla, and the Hawksbill turtle are among animal species on the verge of extinction.

India’s Wildlife Legal Provisions

According to Article 51A(g) of the Indian Constitution of 1950, safeguarding wildlife and exhibiting sympathy for living animalsIt is a fundamental duty of citizens.

Article 48A states that it is the State’s responsibility to conserve, safeguard, and work to improve the country’s forests and animals.

Schedule VII List III of the Constitution’s Concurrent List covers the subject of wild animal and bird protection. It shows that both the Union and the State Governments govern the subject.

Wildlife Treaties on a Global Scale

International wildlife legislation can be an effective instrument for improving animal protection. Several global and regional instruments have been enacted for wildlife conservation. Examples of international conservation efforts include Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and others.

As the world’s most intelligent species, humans must ensure that our actions do not harm nature. Wildlife protection is essential for long-term sustainability. However, human activities in these species’ habitats cause considerable environmental damage.

Wildlife regulations must be enforced with greater rigour. Many efforts have been made on the international and national levels. Project Tiger, Project Elephant, Captive Breeding Program, and others projects have been undertaken as wildlife conservation efforts in India. India also implements a variety of strategies and policies at the international level and per international treaties and conventions. These projects attempt to mitigate the damage and prevent future interruptions. The extinction of wildlife poses a serious threat to the entire world. We should understand that when one crucial ecosystem component is lost, the entire ecosystem suffers.

FAQs on Wildlife conservation efforts in India

What is the most crucial activity leading to the extinction of wildlife.

The regular alteration and destruction of the natural habitat are leading to the extinction of wildlife.

What animal is the representative of the conservation efforts by the World Wildlife Fund?

The Giant Panda is a symbol of concentrated conservation efforts on a global scale.

When did Project Tiger launch?

The project was launched in 1973.

In which year was Project Elephant launched?

The project was launched in 1992.

In which year was Project Snow Leopard launched?

The Government of India launched the project in 2009.

What year did the Wildlife Protection Act go into effect?

The act was enacted in 1972.

How can the viable material of the endangered species be preserved?

The Gene Bank of endangered species stores genetic data.

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Effects Of Wildlife Conservation In India (Essay Sample) 2023

Effects of wildlife conservation in india.

How Can I Get Essay For Free and Is it realistic to expect a low-cost, High-Quality Essay from a Cheap Paper Writing Service ?

Wildlife refers to undomesticated animals, plants and microorganisms such as fungi that live independently in the wild. Conservation refers to conserving of something specific such as the natural surroundings, wildlife, vegetation, or natural eco-system. Wildlife conservation in turn refers to the practice of conserving wild animals and plants species and the habitat one lives in. The purpose of wildlife conservation is to secure nature for future generations to love and also recognize the significance of wildlife and no man’s land to mankind and other living organisms alike. Wildlife conservation plays a key responsibility in balancing the surrounding and yields firmness to various natural operations of nature. This essay seeks to describe wildlife conservation in India and its effects in India.

India brags different kinds of species and living organisms. Aside from some other prime farm animals such as cows, chickens, goats, and camels, India has astonishing wide range of animals that are local to the country. It is resident to Indochinese tigers, Bengal, pythons, deer, foxes, crocodiles, monkeys, snakes, antelopes, the Asian elephants, and different bison. The area’s rich and multiple wildlife are protected in a hundred and twenty national parks, five hundred wildlife reserves, and eighteen bio parks across the nation. India possesses some of the most bio diverse areas of the globe and entertains four of the globes thirty five biodiversity hotspots or precious houses, and the Himalayas. Since India is resident to several unusual animals, wildlife administration in the nation is necessary to conserve these types.

According to one research, India down with other sixteen huge diverse nations is resident to around sixty to seventy percent of the globes biodiversity. India, sprawling the Indomalaya ecozone, is resident to about seven percent of all mammalian, twelve percent of avian bird, six percent of reptilian, and flowering plants classification. In modern decades, human intrusion has presented a risk to India’s wildlife. In reaction, the structure of national parks and protected regions, initially formed in 1935 was successful stretched in 1972. India legislated the wildlife Protection Act and project Tiger to protect vital habitation, in 1980s India also implemented additional federal conservations.

The main purpose of wildlife conservation in India is to secure the nature for future generations to love and also recognize the significance of wildlife. Many animals and birds are ranking of the brink of desolation. This is due to uncontrolled poaching, deforestation, pollution and unlawful market. Because of wildlife conservation, the government and other institutions are facing immense trials to full terminate on exterminating and dealing of animals. Tourism is also an effect of wildlife conservation. India has invested on wildlife by building reserves and national parks to protect wildlife. As a result, tourists from around the globe and even locals visit India to tour the astonishing sanctuaries of wildlife. Another effect is towards aboriginal people who depend upon the massive forests. Efforts to protect vegetation have protected the rights of local people for one’s bread and butter.

In conclusion, wildlife refers to undomesticated animals, plants and microorganisms such as fungi that live independently in the wild. Conservation refers to conserving of something specific such as the natural surroundings, wildlife, vegetation, or natural eco-system. Wildlife is the preservation of plants and animal kinds. Wildlife conservation secures nature for future generations to love and also recognize the significance of wildlife. India possesses some of the most bio diverse areas of the globe and since India is resident to several unusual animals, wildlife administration in the nation is necessary to conserve these types.

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Essay on Wildlife in India

100 Words Essay on Wildlife in India

Wildlife Species

Wildlife Conservation

250 Words Essay on Wildlife in India

India’s Wildlife Diversity

Notable Species

Conservation Efforts

Challenges and Future Directions

500 Words Essay on Wildlife in India

The Expanse of Indian Wildlife

Threats to Indian Wildlife

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Wildlife Conservation Strategies and Management in India: An Overview

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The Wildlife Conservation Efforts In India

Wildlife Conservation Efforts In India

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Contextualising Landscape Ecology in Wildlife and Forest Conservation in India: a Review

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