In News:

A team of young researchers from Kerala has won the prestigious Future Conservationist Award by the Conservation Leadership Programme (CLP) for their community-driven project on conserving the Malabar Grey Hornbill in Wayanad.

About Malabar Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros griseus)

• Status: Vulnerable (IUCN Red List)
• Legal Protection: Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
• Endemic to: Western Ghatsand parts of the Nilgiris, Wayanad, and Anamalai Hills in Southern India.
• Habitat: Evergreen forests, plantations, and agricultural landscapes
• Ecological Importance: Cavity-nesting frugivore, plays a key role in seed dispersal
• Nesting Behavior:
  • Nests in secondary cavities (e.g., old woodpecker hollows)
  • Reuses the same nesting cavity for years
  • Dependent on cavity-bearing trees, often outside protected areas

About the Future Conservationist Award (CLP)

• Awarded By:
  • Fauna & Flora International
  • BirdLife International
  • Wildlife Conservation Society
• Purpose: Supports early-career conservationists with funding and mentorship
• Focus Areas: Field conservation, community engagement, biodiversity monitoring

In News:

In a recent development, the Telangana government has designated the tiger corridor connecting the Kawal Tiger Reserve (Telangana) with the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) as the KumramBheem Conservation Reserve, under Section 36(A) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This move is aimed at preserving critical wildlife corridors in the Central Indian Landscape.

Kawal Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Situated in Telangana, along the Godavari River, forming part of the Deccan Peninsula – Central Highlands.
• Biogeographic Zone: Lies at the southern tip of the Central Indian Tiger Landscape.
• Connectivity: Links with Tadoba-Andhari (Maharashtra), Indravati (Chhattisgarh), and other reserves like Tipeshwar, Chaprala, and Kanhargaon.
• Vegetation Type: Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests.
• Flora: Dominated by teak, bamboo, and species like Anogeissuslatifolia, Terminalia arjuna, Boswellia serrata, etc.
• Fauna: Hosts tiger, leopard, nilgai, chinkara, sambar, blackbuck, wild dog, wolf, and jungle cat.

KumramBheem Conservation Reserve: Newly Notified Area

• Legal Basis: Declared under Section 36(A), Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which allows states to notify government-owned land adjacent to or connecting protected areas as conservation reserves.
• Total Area: 1,492.88 sq km (149,288.48 hectares)
• District &Mandals Covered: Spread across KumramBheemAsifabad district, covering parts of Kerameri, Wankidi, Asifabad, Sirpur, Koutala, Bejjur, Kagaznagar, Rebbana, Dahegaon, and Tiryanimandals.
• Forest Blocks Included: 78 blocks including Garlapet, Ada, Manikgarh East & West, Danora, Gudem, Bejjur, Kadamba, and Girali.

Ecological Significance

• Tiger Movement: Over the last decade, more than 45 unique tigers (mostly transient) have been documented in this corridor through camera trapping and surveys.
• Breeding Evidence: Since 2015, 17 tiger cubs born from 3 tigresses have been recorded. The 2022 Tiger Census confirmed 4 adult tigers and 3 cubs in the area.
• Leopard Presence: 8 leopards were recorded during the All India Leopard Estimation, 2022.
• Other Carnivores: Includes sloth bear, hyena, wild dog, wolf, honey badger, and jungle cat.
• Herbivore Diversity: Rich prey base such as gaur, sambar, nilgai, chital, muntjac, four-horned antelope, and Indian gazelle.
• Avifauna: Home to 240+ bird species, including rare species like the Malabar Pied Hornbill and Long-billed Vulture, the latter using the reserve as a nesting site.
• Elephant Movement: Occasional elephant presence has also been reported.

Governance

A Conservation Reserve Management Committee has been established. Members include:

• District Forest Officer (DFO) of KumramBheemAsifabad (Convenor)
• Sarpanches of local panchayats (e.g., Karji, Motlaguda, Murliguda)
• Representatives from NGOs like Hyderabad Tiger Conservation Society, WWF-India, and Wildlife Conservation Trust
• Officials from Veterinary, Agriculture, and Forest Divisions

In News:

On World Turtle Day (May 23, 2025), Assam’s Nagshankar Temple was officially declared a model temple for turtle conservation, highlighting the ecological role of temple ponds in preserving India’s turtle biodiversity.

Key Highlights

Nagshankar Temple – A Model for Turtle Conservation

• Location: Sootea town, Biswanath district, ~70 km from Tezpur, Assam.
• Established: Believed to be built in the 4th century AD by King Nagashankar of the Nagakha dynasty.
• Religious Importance: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, but turtles are revered as incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
• Ecological Value: Functions as a micro-wildlife sanctuary — home to 250–300 turtles, along with peacocks, pythons, and deer.

Turtle Conservation Initiatives

Species Conserved:

• Black Softshell Turtle (Nilssonia nigricans) – Critically Endangered
• Indian Softshell Turtle (Nilssonia gangetica)
• Malayan Softshell Turtle

These species thrive in the temple pond, which is fed by the Brahmaputra River basin, offering a suitable natural habitat.

Community & Scientific Collaboration:

• Key Stakeholders:
  • Nagshankar Temple Committee
  • Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) India
  • Help Earth (NGO)
  • Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve
  • Assam Forest Department
• Conservation Methods:
  • Artificial egg incubation and wild release of hatchlings.
  • Dried-fish diet introduced for temple turtles, replacing harmful offerings (e.g., biscuits, puffed rice).
  • Capacity-building workshops for forest staff and students to aid in turtle surveys.

Result: 486 hatchlings of the black softshell turtle have been released into the wild from the Nagshankar Temple pond.

Statewide Turtle Conservation Model

• Assam houses ~25 temple ponds actively involved in turtle conservation.
• Notable site: Hayagriva Madhav Temple in Hajo (Kamrup district).
• State Zoo in Guwahati has a dedicated breeding facility (established 2010) for the Assam Roofed Turtle (Pangshura sylhetensis, "Asomi Dura").

In News:

According to the latest 2024 data by Global Forest Watch (GFW) and the University of Maryland, India lost 18,200 hectares of primary forest in 2024, a slight increase from 17,700 hectares in 2023.

Primary forests are mature, humid tropical forests that have not been entirely cleared or regrown in recent history.

Key Highlights:

Globally, 6.7 million hectares of tropical primary forest were lost in 2024—almost double the loss in 2023.

For the first time in over two decades, wildfires surpassed agriculture as the leading driver of tropical forest loss, accounting for nearly 50% of the global total. This spike is largely attributed to climate change and El Niño, which intensified heatwaves and droughts.

Major Global Trends (2024)

• Brazil: Accounted for 42% of global tropical forest loss.
• Bolivia: Recorded a 200% rise in forest loss, overtaking the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Fires: Emerged as the dominant cause of forest destruction globally.

India: Forest Cover Trends and Data (2001–2024)

• India lost 2.31 million hectares of tree cover since 2001—equivalent to a 7.1% decrease and 1.29 gigatonnes of CO? equivalent emissions.
• Humid primary forest loss between 2002 and 2024 stood at 3,48,000 hectares (5.4%), accounting for 15% of the total tree cover loss.
• Annual primary forest loss (in hectares):
  • 2024: 18,200
  • 2023: 17,700
  • 2022: 16,900
  • 2021: 18,300
  • 2020: 17,000
  • 2019: 14,500

2024 Indian Forest Loss Patterns

• Overall Tree Cover Loss: Decreased by 6.9% compared to 2023.
• Humid Primary Forest Loss: Rose by 5.9% in 2024.
• Fire-Induced Forest Loss: Increased to 950 hectares (a 158% rise from 2023).
• Regional Hotspots: Northeastern states such as Assam, Nagaland, and Mizoram, driven by shifting cultivation, logging, and agricultural expansion.

According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), India had the second-highest rate of deforestation globally from 2015 to 2020, with an annual forest loss of 6.68 lakh hectares.

India’s Forest Conservation Measures

Policy and Legal Framework

• Forest Conservation Act, 1980 (Amended 2023): Regulates diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes. Amendments aim to streamline processes while raising concerns about potential dilution of protections.
• National Forest Policy, 1988: Advocates maintaining 33% of geographical area under forest/tree cover.
• Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act (CAMPA), 2016: Ensures reforestation and eco-restoration using funds from forest land diversion.

Afforestation and Reforestation

• Green India Mission: Under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC); focuses on increasing forest cover and ecosystem resilience.
• State Initiatives: Example – Uttar Pradesh plans to plant 35 crore saplings in 2025.

Community Participation

• Joint Forest Management (JFM): Encourages community–forest department collaboration.
• Forest Rights Act, 2006: Legally empowers forest-dwelling communities to manage and conserve forests.

Technological Tools

• Satellite Monitoring: Real-time surveillance of forest cover and illegal activities.
• Mobile Apps: Tools like ‘My Plants’ facilitate public engagement in plantation efforts.

International Partnerships

• Forest-PLUS 3.0: A joint initiative with the United States, promoting sustainable forestry and climate resilience.

About Global Forest Watch (GFW)

• A project by the World Resources Institute (WRI), established in 1997.
• An open-access platform offering near real-time forest monitoring data.
• Users: Governments, NGOs, academia, journalists, and the public.
• Technology: Uses Landsat satellite imagery and region-specific algorithms to track forest change.

In News:

Recently, the Himachal Pradesh Government notified the Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve, making it India’s largest conservation reserve, spanning 1,585 sq km. It is located in the Spiti Valley of Lahaul-Spiti district, a high-altitude, cold desert ecosystem.

Legal Status:

• Declared under Section 36A(1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
• It is Himachal Pradesh’s fifth conservation reserve after Darlaghat, Naina Devi, Potter Hill, and Shilli

Geographical Significance:

• Boundaries:
  • North: Union Territory of Ladakh
  • East: Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary (up to Malang Nala and LungarLungpa)
  • South: KabjimaNala
  • West: Chandratal Wildlife Sanctuary
• Encompasses the confluence of Unam River and CharapNala
• Serves as the catchment area of Charap Nallah and a critical wildlife corridor linking Kibber and Chandratal sanctuaries

Ecological Importance:

• Identified as a high-density snow leopard habitat
• Other key species:
  • Tibetan wolf, bharal (blue sheep), Himalayan ibex
  • Kiang (Tibetan wild ass), Tibetan argali
• Rich in avian biodiversity: Rose Finch, Tibetan Raven, Yellow-billed Chough

Management and Community Involvement:

• To be managed by a Conservation Reserve Management Committee including local Panchayat representatives
• Emphasizes community-based conservation, balancing ecological goals with local livelihoods
• Promotes eco-tourism, wildlife research, and nature-based livelihood opportunities

In News:

Rajasthan has joined hands with Madhya Pradesh to develop India’s first inter-state cheetah conservation corridor, a landmark initiative under the Cheetah Reintroduction Project. The corridor will facilitate the safe movement of cheetahs across a 17,000 sq. km protected landscape, enhancing conservation and habitat connectivity.

Key Features of the Cheetah Conservation Corridor

Aspect                          Details

Total Area                  17,000 sq. km (MP: 10,500 sq. km; Rajasthan: 6,500 sq. km)

States Involved      Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan

Supported by           National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

MoU Status                 In progress between Chief Ministers of MP and Rajasthan

Geographical Scope and Key Sites

• PalpurKuno National Park (MP):Core site for cheetah reintroduction; located in Sheopur district.
• Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary (MP):Being developed as a second habitat for cheetahs; located in Mandsaur district along the Chambal River.
• Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan):Proposed extension site; comprises parts of Darrah, Jawahar Sagar, and Chambal sanctuaries in Kota division.
• Rajasthan Districts Involved:Kota, Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar, Sawai Madhopur, Karauli, Chittorgarh
• Proposed Future Expansion:Forest regions of Jhansi and Lalitpur in Uttar Pradesh

Objectives and Benefits

• Inter-State Wildlife Connectivity:India’s first corridor linking cheetah habitats across state borders.
• Seamless Migration:Enables cheetahs to roam freely between reserves, mimicking natural ecological patterns.
• Ecological Restoration:Aims to revive and conserve India’s arid grassland ecosystems, which are essential habitats for cheetahs.
• Federal Conservation Model:Demonstrates cooperative federalism in wildlife management and biodiversity conservation.
• Global Recognition:Touted as a unique conservation model in Asia, aligning with Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) targets.

In News:

A major global study published in PLOS Biology (March 2025) has reaffirmed that targeted species-specific conservation measures are critical in reversing biodiversity loss and preventing extinctions. Despite the ongoing biodiversity crisis, where six times more species are declining than improving, the study found that where conservation efforts were applied, results were overwhelmingly positive.

Analyzing over 67,000 animal species from the IUCN Red List, researchers from institutions including the University of Cambridge, IUCN, and BirdLife International discovered that 99.3% of species that improved in threat status since 1980 had benefitted from conservation interventions, such as habitat protection, reintroduction, breeding programmes, and legal protections. Of the 969 species with globally increasing populations, 78.3% were under active conservation.

Notable global success stories include:

• Iberian Lynx: Rebounded from a few hundred to several thousand through breeding and habitat restoration.
• K?k?p? (New Zealand parrot): Revived via intensive monitoring and predator control.
• European Bison: Successfully reintroduced in Eastern Europe after extinction in the wild.
• Marine species such as humpback and blue whales also recovered after international moratoriums on whaling.

Island ecosystems like New Zealand, Mauritius, and the Seychelles showed the highest concentration of species recovery, while decline hotspots included the Tropical Andes, Sumatra, Malaysia, and Borneo.

Despite these successes, the study cautions that since 1980, 1,220 species of birds, mammals, and amphibians have deteriorated in Red List status compared to only 201 species that improved.

Causes include habitat loss, pollution, overexploitation, climate change, invasive species, and disease.The study called for landscape-scale conservation and ambitious implementation of Goal A of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to halt extinction risk and restore resilient populations.

India’s Species-Specific Conservation Efforts

India has adopted a multi-pronged species-specific conservation approach, primarily under the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH), 2008, which continues under the 15th Finance Commission (2021–26). The scheme focuses on critically endangered species through captive breeding, habitat restoration, and community participation.

Key initiatives include:

• Species Recovery Programme: Prioritizes 22 species (16 terrestrial and 6 aquatic) for focused conservation.
• Project Tiger (1973) and Project Elephant (1992): Flagship conservation efforts for apex species.
• Project Crocodile: Initiated post-Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, supported by the UN. Saltwater crocodiles in Bhitarkanika increased from 95 (1975) to 1,811.
• Sea Turtle Conservation Project (1999): Focuses on Olive Ridley Turtles, listed as Vulnerable (IUCN), Schedule I (WLPA), and Appendix I (CITES).
• Vulture Action Plan 2020–25: Aims to eliminate diclofenac use and protect food sources for vultures. India's first Vulture Conservation and Breeding Centre (VCBC) was set up in Pinjore, Haryana.
• Indian Rhino Vision 2020: Increased the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros population in Kaziranga National Park to over 2,600 (2022).
• Project Cheetah (2022): Reintroduces cheetahs extinct in India since 1952, with cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa released in Kuno National Park. India saw its first wild cheetah birth in 2023 after 75 years.
• Maharashtra’s Pangolin Action Plan: The first dedicated plan for pangolin conservation. Pangolins are listed under Schedule I of the WLPA, receiving the highest level of protection.

In News:

Rajasthan’s Chhareda Panchayat in Dausa district has emerged as a leading example of effective water conservation, driven by a community-driven initiative that has significantly transformed agricultural practices and farmer livelihoods. The project, led by Vipra Goyal, an alumnus of IIT-Kharagpur, has revolutionized water usage in the region through the construction of 250 farm ponds.

Key Aspects:

• Objective:The model aims to address water scarcity and groundwater depletion through rainwater harvesting and the construction of farm ponds, reducing dependence on overexploited groundwater sources.

How Farm Ponds are Contributing to Water Conservation in Rajasthan

• Rainwater Harvesting:Farm ponds serve as storage systems for rainwater, minimizing reliance on deep, contaminated groundwater sources. This helps prevent the further depletion of underground water reserves.
• Year-Round Water Availability:The ponds provide consistent water supply for both kharif and rabi crops, ensuring that farmers can grow crops throughout the year without facing water shortages.
• Groundwater Conservation:By reducing the need to extract groundwater, this initiative has helped conserve approximately 30 crore litres of water annually, easing the pressure on local aquifers.
• Boosting Agricultural Productivity and Income:With reliable water sources, farmers have shifted from subsistence farming to growing cash crops, which has resulted in a collective increase of about ?5 crore in household incomes.
• Reduced Water Pollution:The initiative avoids the use of groundwater contaminated with harmful substances like arsenic and fluoride, which are prevalent in many areas of Rajasthan.
• Sustainability and Climate Resilience:The farm ponds offer a climate-resilient solution, ensuring that agriculture in water-scarce regions is sustainable even in the face of erratic rainfall patterns.
• Cost-Free Construction:The construction of the ponds has been facilitated through CSR funds and government schemes, making the project cost-free for farmers.

In News:

In the 119th edition of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Soliga tribe of the BiligiriRanganathaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve in Karnataka for their significant role in tiger conservation and sustainable forest practices.

Who are the Soligas?

• Location: Indigenous, forest-dwelling tribe residing primarily in Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka, and parts of Tamil Nadu, especially around Biligiri Rangana Hills and Male Mahadeshwara Hills.
• Meaning of the Name: "Soliga" translates to “children of bamboo”, symbolizing their deep ecological ties.
• Language: They speak Sholaga (a Dravidian language), along with Kannada and Tamil.
• Lifestyle:Soligas live in bamboo-and-mud huts, practice shifting cultivation, and depend on non-timber forest produce (NTFP) for sustenance.
• Diet & Livelihood:Honey is a staple in their diet; they extensively forage and harvest forest produce like amla, gooseberries, and medicinal herbs, leaving a portion for wildlife—a reflection of their conservation ethos.

Religious and Cultural Practices:

• Soligasworship wildlife, especially the tiger, locally called “DoddaNayi” (Great Dog). They have even built temples dedicated to tigers.
• Their belief system includes Hindu customs, animism, and naturism, highlighting their spiritual connection with nature.
• They produce eco-friendly artifacts like ‘jottai’ (leaf cups), showcasing sustainable craftsmanship.

Recognition of Forest Rights:

• In 2011, Soligas became the first tribal community in India to receive legal recognition of their forest rights within a tiger reserve, under the Forest Rights Act (FRA).
• This ruling allowed them to reside within the BRT Tiger Reserve and sustainably collect forest produce without displacing wildlife.

Role in Tiger Conservation:

• Soligas’ traditional knowledge of forest ecology helps them coexist peacefully with wildlife, minimizing human-animal conflict.
• They assist the Forest Department in fire prevention, wildlife tracking, and ecological management.
• Their cultural practices ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife. For instance, during harvest, they intentionally leave 25–33% of the produce in the forest for animals.

BiligiriRanganathaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka; lies at the confluence of the Western and Eastern Ghats, forming a critical wildlife corridor.
• Ecosystem: Rich in biodiversity with forest types including:
  • Southern Tropical Evergreen
  • Semi-Evergreen
  • Moist Deciduous
• Flora:Axlewood, Rosewood, Terminalia spp., Indian Gooseberry, Ceylon Oak, Golden Shower Tree.
• Fauna: Tigers, Wild Dogs, Sloth Bears, Sambars, Bison, and endangered species like the Icthyophisghytinosus (Caecilian).
• Cultural Site: Named after Lord Rangaswamy, the reserve houses the Biligiri Temple atop mist-covered hills.

In News:

India with an abysmal score of 45.5 (out of 100) has been ranked 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index, 2024.

Key Highlights:

• India's Ranking:
  • Ranked 176th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI).
  • India is listed among the five worst performers, along with Kiribati (180), Turkey (179), Iraq (178), and Micronesia (177).
  • Score: 45.5 out of 100, indicating significant conservation challenges.
• Key Factors Contributing to Low Rank:
  • Inefficient land management practices.
  • Rising threats to biodiversity, exacerbated by unsustainable development and climate change.
• Four Key Markers Assessed by the NCI:
  • Land Management: Ineffective management leading to significant land conversion.
  • Threats to Biodiversity: Habitat loss, fragmentation, and deforestation.
  • Capacity and Governance: Need for stronger political will and better enforcement of conservation laws.
  • Future Trends: Growing pressure from population density, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade.
• Sustainable Land Use Concerns:
  • 53% of land has been converted for urban, industrial, and agricultural purposes.
  • High use of pesticides and concerns over soil pollution.
  • Sustainable nitrogen index of 0.77 indicates significant risks to soil health.
• Marine Conservation Issues:
  • Only 0.2% of India’s national waterways are under protected areas, with no protected areas within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
  • Significant improvements needed in marine conservation despite 7.5% of terrestrial areas being protected.
• Deforestation and Habitat Loss:
  • 23,300 sq. km of tree cover lost between 2001-2019 due to deforestation.
  • Habitat fragmentation from agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development.
  • Impact of climate change on sensitive ecosystems like alpine regions and coral reefs.
• Biodiversity Decline:
  • Despite 40% of marine species and 65% of terrestrial species being within Protected Areas (PAs), many species continue to face population decline.
  • 67.5% of marine species and 46.9% of terrestrial species are still experiencing population declines.
• Illegal Wildlife Trade:
  • India is the fourth-largest illegal wildlife trading nation globally, with an estimated annual trade value of £15 billion.
  • The NCI emphasizes the need for stronger enforcement and international cooperation to combat wildlife trafficking.
• Ecological Wealth Under Threat:
  • India’s high population density (with a population that has doubled since the late 1970s) continues to put pressure on its ecological wealth.
  • The country faces significant biodiversity challenges due to overpopulation and unsustainable development.
• Recommendations and Optimism:
  • The NCI stresses the need for strong political will and commitment to sustainable development.
  • India can improve its rank by strengthening conservation laws, improving governance, and securing funding for environmental initiatives.
  • The NCI remains optimistic about India’s potential to address its conservation challenges and achieve more sustainable outcomes in the future.
• About the Nature Conservation Index (NCI):
• Developed by: Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change (Ben-Gurion University) and BioDB.com (a biodiversity database).
• Purpose: Evaluates the conservation efforts of countries, using a data-driven approach to balance conservation and development.
• Key Focus Areas: Land management, biodiversity threats, governance, and future sustainability trends.

In News:

India with an abysmal score of 45.5 (out of 100) has been ranked 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index, 2024.

India's Ranking and Score:

• Rank: India ranks 176th out of 180 countries.
• Score: 45.5 out of 100.
• Context: India is listed among the five "worst performers," alongside Kiribati (180), Turkey (179), Iraq (178), and Micronesia (177).

Key Factors Affecting India’s Ranking:

• Inefficient Land Management: The main contributing factor to India's low ranking.
• Threats to Biodiversity: Rising threats due to habitat loss, deforestation, climate change, and pollution.
• Deforestation: Between 2001 and 2019, India lost 23,300 sq. km of tree cover, exacerbating biodiversity loss.

Focus Areas of the Nature Conservation Index (NCI):

• Land Management: Inefficient land use practices, with 53% of land converted for urban, industrial, and agricultural purposes.
• Biodiversity Threats: Habitat loss, fragmentation, and declining populations of marine and terrestrial species.
• Governance and Capacity: Challenges in enforcement of laws and governance structures that support conservation.
• Future Trends: India faces both opportunities and challenges, given its high population density and rapid development.

Key Findings:                                    

• Land Conversion and Urbanization: High rates of land conversion (53%) for development purposes, contributing to habitat loss.
• Soil Pollution: Issues with pesticide use and soil pollution (low nitrogen index of 0.77), affecting soil health.
• Marine Conservation: Only 0.2% of national waterways and none within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are protected.
• Deforestation Impact: Loss of 23,300 sq. km of forest between 2001-2019.
• Biodiversity Decline: Despite 40% of marine species and 65% of terrestrial species in protected areas, biodiversity continues to decline—67.5% of marine species and 46.9% of terrestrial species face population decreases.

Marine and Terrestrial Conservation:

• Marine Areas: Need for greater investment in marine conservation, as India's marine protected areas (MPAs) are limited.
• Protected Areas: While 7.5% of India’s terrestrial area is protected, significant threats like climate change and habitat fragmentation persist.

Biodiversity and Climate Change:

• Climate Change Risks: Impacts on vulnerable ecosystems, including coral reefs and alpine regions, further threaten biodiversity.
• Population Growth: India’s rapidly growing population (one of the highest in the world) places constant pressure on natural resources and ecosystems.

Illegal Wildlife Trade:

• Global Ranking: India is the fourth-largest illegal wildlife trader globally, with an annual trade worth approximately £15 billion.
• Call for Action: Stronger enforcement of wildlife protection laws and international cooperation are crucial to combat illegal wildlife trade.

SDGs and India’s Conservation Challenges:

• SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land): India faces significant challenges in meeting these Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in protecting marine life and terrestrial ecosystems.

Recommendations for Improvement:

• Stronger Political Will: Political commitment is essential for passing laws that promote sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.
• Enforcement and Funding: Increased funding for environmental initiatives and better enforcement of conservation policies are necessary to address the conservation challenges.
• Sustainable Development: Integrating sustainable land use practices and improving governance structures for conservation are key areas for focus.

Why is it in the News?

Members states of the world’s largest transnational conservation initiative meet to review progress and strategise the way forward.

About the Kaza TFCA (Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area) Summit:

• The Kaza TFCA (Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area) Summit is a high-level meeting of the heads of state and government representatives from the countries that make up the Kaza TFCA.
• The Kaza TFCA is a conservation area that spans parts of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Some key points about the Kaza TFCA Summit:

• It brings together the political leadership from the five Kaza member countries to discuss issues related to the conservation and sustainable development of the Kaza transfrontier area.
• Topics discussed include wildlife conservation, tourism development, community involvement, and joint management of shared natural resources across international boundaries.
• The Summit aims to strengthen political support, coordination and collaboration among the Kaza partner countries for effective transboundary natural resource management.
• It provides a platform for the member states to review progress made, agree on priorities, and give strategic direction for the Kaza program going forward.
• The Summits are held periodically, with the last one being hosted by Botswana in 2018 in Kasane.

About the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area:

• The Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area is a 520,000-square-kilometre wetland and spans five southern African countries: Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
• It is home to a high concentration of wildlife species, including the largest elephant population.
• The KAZA TFCA was formally established on the 18th of August 2011 when the Heads of State of the five governments signed its Treaty in Luanda, Angola, during the SADC Summit for Heads of States.

The KAZA TFCA was established to:

• Conserve the shared natural resources and cultural heritage of this vast area of southern Africa
• Promote and facilitate the development of a complementary and linked network of protected areas that protect wildlife and provide and restore dispersal corridors and migratory routes
• Develop the KAZA TFCA into a world-class tourism destination offering a variety of breathtaking adventures and luxurious relaxation
• Promote the free and easy movement of tourists across borders
• Implement programmes that ensure the sustainable use of natural resources in ways that improve the livelihoods of communities and reduce poverty in the region
• Harmonise conservation legislation and natural resource management of the TFCA

Why is it in the News?

To revive the population of tigers in Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) — the lone tiger reserve in the Maharashtra western region — the state’s forest department will soon translocate tigers from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in Chandrapur district.

What are Wildlife Corridors?

• Corridors are essentially habitats and pathways that connect wildlife populations, which are fragmented by human settlements and infrastructure works.
• They are crucial for the long-term survival of the tiger population as they help guard against localised extinctions and ensure the exchange of gene flow, which helps in population diversity.
• Tigers have large home ranges and often travel long distances in search of mates and food.
  • In doing so, they make use of these wildlife corridors and cross several human-dominated landscapes.
• The role played by corridors in conservation is a well-established one and has been incorporated into policy decisions as well.
• Mitigation measures such as underpasses, and wildlife crossings are now routinely ordered to safeguard tigers and other wildlife in projects where linear infrastructure projects fragment habitats.
• Litigation, advocacy, and policymaking have all contributed to this.
  • The construction of an overpass on the National Highway- 7 to protect the migratory route of tigers underneath between the Kanha and Pench Tiger Reserves is one instance of embedding mitigation measures to protect corridors.
• Tigers routinely use the space beneath the elevated stretch of the highway to cross the forests.
  • In 2014-15, the National Tiger Conservation Authority and Wildlife Institute of India (WII) mapped 32 major tiger corridors in the country across four broad tiger landscapes – Shivalik Hills and Gangetic plains, Central India and Eastern Ghats, Western Ghats, and the North East Hills.

Is Translocation the Best Approach for Tiger Recovery?

• Tiger translocation projects have been undertaken in India since 2008.
  • Sariska Tiger Reserve, in 2008, and Panna Tiger Reserve, in 2009, have witnessed successful tiger reintroduction and translocation projects.
• There have also been failures and shelving of reintroduction plans, like in the case of Satkosia Tiger Reserve in Odisha, which was the country’s first inter-state translocation project.
• However, before choosing translocation, other available options such as habitat improvement, prey augmentation, strengthening of tiger corridors, and vigilance improvement should be assessed.
• Even after translocations, one must ensure that corridors are strengthened and they are free of major disturbances.
  • This will ensure the dispersal of tigers to other source population areas.

Why is it in the News?

Chhattisgarh-based environment and forest activist Alok Shukla has been honoured with the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize for his efforts and exemplary community campaign in safeguarding the biodiversity-rich forests in the mineral-rich state.

About Goldman Environmental Prize:

• The Goldman Environmental Prize recognizes grassroots environmental heroes from roughly the world’s six inhabited continental regions:
  • Africa
  • Asia
  • Europe
  • Islands & Island Nations
  • North America
  • South & Central America
• It is also called the Green Nobel.
• The Prize recognizes individuals for sustained and significant efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment, often at great personal risk.
• The Goldman Prize views “grassroots” leaders as those involved in local efforts, where positive change is created through community or citizen participation.
• Through recognizing these individual leaders, the Prize seeks to inspire other ordinary people to take extraordinary actions to protect the natural world.

History:

• Reflecting a lifetime commitment to philanthropy and environmental issues, the Goldman Environmental Prize was founded in 1989 by Richard and Rhoda Goldman.
• The duo envisioned the Prize as a way to demonstrate the international nature of environmental problems and draw public attention to the global need for action.
• By rewarding ordinary individuals for their outstanding environmental achievements, the Goldmans hoped to inspire others to emulate the examples set by the Prize recipients.
• The first Goldman Environmental Prize ceremony took place on April 16, 1990, and it was timed to coincide with Earth Day.
• The recipients of the Goldman Environmental Prize are announced annually in a live ceremony timed to coincide with Earth Day.
• The Prize is awarded in the city of San Francisco, California.
• Prize winners each receive a bronze sculpture in the shape of an Ouroboros.
  • Common to many cultures around the world, the Ouroboros, which depicts a serpent biting its tail, is a symbol of nature’s power of renewal.

Why is it in the News?

At the Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes Conference, Bhutan and the Tiger Conservation Coalition pledged to mobilize $1 billion for tiger conservation efforts.

About the Tiger Conservation Coalition:

• The Tiger Conservation Coalition is a group of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that have worked for many years with partners to conserve tigers.
• It brings together leading tiger biologists and experts in wildlife crime, human-wildlife coexistence, policy, finance, development, and communications with unprecedented alignment on achieving tiger conservation at scale.
  • Its member organizations include the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), Fauna & Flora, the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), Panthera, TRAFFIC, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
• It is an independent group of organizations that combines and shares the vast knowledge, on-the-ground experience, and data of its members and partners to support Tiger Range Countries in developing and implementing effective approaches to tiger conservation.
• The Coalition was founded on strong relationships among eminent tiger experts already working together on major tiger assessments, including the latest assessment by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species released in 2022, and the forthcoming Green Status Assessment, and coalesced around a common vision for tiger recovery.
• By engaging national and local civil society organizations from the region, and continuing to support the Global Tiger Initiative Council and the Global Tiger Forum, the coalition aims to further strengthen partnerships and impactful outcomes for tigers.
• In January 2022, the Tiger Conservation Coalition released its vision for tiger recovery through 2034, the next Year of the Tiger.
  • “Securing a Viable Future for the Tiger” presents a set of measurable goals and high-level strategic approaches to achieve the long-term presence of viable and ecologically functional populations of wild tigers.
• Its suggested actions, grounded in the latest science and results, would lead to increasing numbers of tigers secure in current and expanded protected habitats, with distribution and connectivity across their indigenous range.
• Tiger Conservation Coalition members co-developed Tiger Conservation Landscapes 3.0, an integrated habitat modeling system to measure and monitor changes in tiger habitat at range-wide, national, biome, and landscape scales in near real-time.
• This work serves as a model for objective, range-wide, habitat monitoring as countries work to achieve the goals laid out in the 30x30 agenda, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Why is it in the News?

In a groundbreaking conservation endeavor, the Global Society for the Preservation of Baobabs and Mangroves (GSPBM) has initiated a mission to rejuvenate the iconic Baobab trees.

About the African Baobab Tree:

• African baobab trees, scientifically known as Adansonia Digitata, are some of the oldest living organisms in the world.
• Baobab trees originated millions of years ago in West Africa and spread over time to other parts of the world, creating new species.
  • There are 9 baobab species, of which 6 have originated in Madagascar, 2 in Australia, and 1 in Africa.
• These trees range in height from 5 to 20 meters and are typically found in deciduous forests composed primarily of broad-leaved trees that shed their leaves during one season.
• It is one of nine species of baobab, is native to mainland Africa, and also thrives in the African savanna ecosystem.
• The savanna features warm temperatures year-round and experiences its highest seasonal rainfall in the summer.
• It is characterized by grasses and dispersed trees, allowing ample sunlight to reach the ground.
• Age Record: Carbon-14 dating has revealed that an African baobab specimen in Namibia is approximately 1,275 years old, making it the oldest known angiosperm tree.
• Tree of Life: African baobabs, being succulents, absorb and store water in their expansive trunks during the rainy season.
  • This unique adaptation enables them to produce nutrient-dense fruit during the dry season, even in arid environments.
• Utilization: Baobab trees, with lifespans exceeding a thousand years, offer a multitude of benefits including food, fodder for livestock, medicinal compounds, and raw materials for various purposes.
• Threats: Since 2005, nine of the thirteen oldest African baobab specimens and five of the six largest trees have either perished or experienced significant decline, possibly due to the impacts of climate change.

What are Angiosperms?

• Angiosperms, a taxonomic class of plants, are characterized by seeds enclosed within an ovule, such as those found in apples.
• This group is commonly known as hardwoods.
• Angiosperms typically comprise trees with broad leaves that undergo color changes and shed annually during autumn.
  • Examples of deciduous angiosperms include oaks, maples, and dogwoods. However, certain angiosperms, such as rhododendrons, live oaks, and sweet bay magnolias, retain their leaves.

Gymnosperms:

• Gymnosperms, another taxonomic class, encompass plants with seeds not enclosed in an ovule, as seen in pine cones.
  • The term "gymnosperm" translates to "naked seed," and this group is often referred to as softwoods.
• Gymnosperms commonly feature needle-like leaves that remain green throughout the year. Examples include pines, cedars, spruces, and firs.
• While many gymnosperms maintain their foliage year-round, some, like ginkgos, dawn redwoods, and bald cypresses, do shed their leaves.

Why is it in the News?

A recent investigation in southern Africa has revealed a plethora of previously undiscovered biodiversity within a newly identified ecoregion known as the South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA).

About South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA):

• It represents a newly identified mountainous ecoregion spanning from northern Mozambique to Mount Mulanje in Malawi, which is the second-highest peak in southern Africa.
• This ecoregion comprises 30 granitic inselbergs rising over 1000 meters above sea level, hosting both the largest (Mt Mabu) and smallest (Mt Lico) mid-elevation rainforests in southern Africa, alongside uniquely diverse montane grasslands.
• SEAMA experiences notably higher annual rainfall and humidity, particularly during the dry season, compared to its surrounding areas.
• Since 2000, SEAMA has witnessed a loss of 18% of its primary humid forest cover, with rates reaching up to 43% in certain locations—marking one of the most rapid deforestation rates across Africa.
• The principal cause of montane forest depletion in SEAMA stems from slash-and-burn agricultural practices, predominantly employed for subsistence food cultivation by local communities, alongside charcoal production for household cooking and economic purposes.

What are Inselbergs?

• Inselbergs are solitary geological formations characterized by isolated, steep-sided hills or small mountains rising abruptly from flat or gently sloping terrain.
  • Composed of erosion-resistant rock, such as granite or quartzite, inselbergs stand out prominently in landscapes, with steep or even vertical sides resulting from differential erosion processes.
  • These formations, found predominantly in arid or semi-arid regions, take various shapes, including dome-shaped hills, conical peaks, or sheer-sided cliffs.
• Despite their isolated nature, inselbergs support unique ecosystems and biodiversity, creating microclimates and habitats for specialized plant and animal species.
  • Rock crevices, caves, and pockets of soil on inselbergs harbor distinct flora and fauna adapted to harsh conditions, making these formations biodiversity hotspots.
  • Additionally, inselbergs often hold cultural and spiritual significance for indigenous peoples and local communities, serving as sites for religious rituals, cave paintings, or archaeological artifacts.
• However, inselbergs face threats such as deforestation and habitat degradation due to human activities like slash-and-burn agriculture and charcoal production.
  • Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these geological wonders and preserve their ecological and cultural significance for future generations.

Why in the News?

Members of the Muthuvan tribe of the Anamalai hills, who are known for coexisting with the wildlife with their traditional knowledge, have joined hands with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department for a unique task.

About the Muthuvan Tribe:

• Inhabiting the border hill forests of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the Muthuvan tribe is distributed across this region.
• The tribe communicates in distinct dialects, identifying themselves as Malayalam Muthuvan and Pandi Muthuvan.
• Cultural Beliefs: Embracing animism and spirit worship, the Muthuvan tribe venerates forest gods and attributes the spirits of their ancestors as the initial settlers in the hill forests.
• Renowned for their harmonious coexistence with wildlife, the Muthuvan people leverage traditional knowledge to navigate their relationship with the natural environment.
• Unique Governance System - 'Kani System': Operating under the 'Kani System,' each village is overseen by a 'Kani' responsible for village administration, reflecting their distinctive form of governance.
• Traditional Medicine Expertise: Proficient in traditional medicines, the Muthuvan tribe safeguards their effective remedies, preserving and passing down this knowledge across generations.
• Occupation: Agriculture serves as the primary occupation for Muthuvan tribes, yielding various products such as ragi, cardamom, and lemongrass.

About Project Tahr:

• Project Tahr aims to enhance comprehension of the Nilgiri Tahr population through surveys and radio telemetry studies.
• The initiative focuses on reintroducing Tahrs to their historical habitat, fostering their return to natural landscapes.
• Addressing immediate threats, the project employs strategic measures to mitigate challenges facing the Nilgiri Tahr.
• A key component involves intensifying public awareness efforts to garner support and understanding for the conservation of this species.
• Project Tahr is slated for a comprehensive 5-year implementation, spanning from 2022 to 2027.

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change on October 13, 2023, notified the ‘green credit’ programme, a first-of-a-kind market-based instrument designed to incentivise individuals, industries and local bodies for their voluntary environmental actions across diverse sectors.

About Green Credit Programme (GCP):

• Green Credit Program (GCP ) is an innovative market-based mechanism designed to incentivize voluntary environmental actions across diverse sectors, by various stakeholders like individuals, communities, private sector industries, and companies.
• The GCP's governance framework is supported by an inter-ministerial Steering Committee and The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) serves as the GCP Administrator, responsible for program implementation, management, monitoring, and operation.
• In its initial phase, the GCP focuses on two key activities: water conservation and afforestation.
• A user-friendly digital platform will streamline the processes for registration of projects, verification, and issuance of Green Credits.
• The Green Credit Registry and trading platform, being developed by ICFRE along with experts, would facilitate the registration and thereafter, the buying and selling of Green Credits.
• To obtain Green Credits, individuals and entities must register their activities through the central government's dedicated app/website www.moefcc-gcp.in.
• The Administrator will verify the activity through a designated agency, with self-verification for small projects.
• Once verification is complete, the Administrator will grant a Green Credit certificate which will be tradable on the Green Credit platform.

What is the Ecomark Scheme?

• The Ecomark Scheme provides accreditation and labelling for household and consumer products that meet specific environmental criteria while maintaining quality standards as per Indian norms.
• Products accredited under the Ecomark Scheme will adhere to specific environmental criteria, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
• It will build consumer awareness of environmental issues and encourage eco-conscious choices.
• It will also motivate manufacturers to shift towards environmentally friendly production. The scheme seeks to ensure accurate labelling and prevent misleading information about products.
• The Central Pollution Control Board administers the Ecomark Scheme in partnership with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which is the national body for standards and certification.

Both initiatives mark significant steps in promoting sustainable living, and environmental conservation, and, through individual and collective choice, embody eco-friendly practices in India. They align with global sustainability goals and reflect the government's commitment to conservation and protection of the environment.

Why in the News?

Paris-based International Energy Agency highlighted India’s Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), 2017 as something that sets it apart from other developing economies where “energy efficiency in buildings stands out as a laggard”.

About Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC):

• Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) Released by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).
• It was first released in 2007 and again updated in 2017.
• The purpose of ECBE is to set minimum energy standards for commercial buildings, with the objective of enabling energy savings of between 25 and 50% in compliant buildings.
• Commercial buildings include hospitals, hotels, schools, shopping complexes and multiplexes which have a connected load of 100 kW or more, or contract demand of 120 kVA or more.
• Also the code is for both new buildings and retrofitting existing buildings.
• Assessment Parameters: The Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) primarily looks at parameters like building design including envelope (walls, roofs, windows), lighting systems, and renewable energy integration among others.
• Tagging of buildings: Compliant buildings are assigned one of three tags in ascending order of efficiency, namely ECBC, ECBC Plus, and Super ECBC.
• 23 out of 28 states have notified ECBC rules. But only 15 states have notified rules based on the latest ECBC,2017.
• Five states — Gujarat, Maharashtra, J&K, Ladakh, and Manipur — are yet to notify ECBC rules.

Why in the News?

In an effort to conserve dolphins and their habitat, the Tamil Nadu government has issued orders to implement Project Dolphin under the Union government’s Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats scheme.

About Project Dolphin:

• Project Dolphin is a national conservation initiative approved in 2019 during the first meeting of the Prime Minister-led National Ganga Council (NGC) and launched in 2021 to safeguard both riverine and oceanic dolphin species.
• It's part of the larger Arth Ganga program, which is a government initiative.
• It is modeled after Project Tiger, the successful conservation program that has played a significant role in the resurgence of tigers in India.
• The Project Dolphin will strengthen the marine ecology and overall health of the marine Environment and will be implemented at a cost of Rs.8.13 crore.
• The major habitats of the dolphins are found in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (Tamil Nadu).
• The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change is responsible for implementing Project Dolphin.
• The main goal is to ensure the long-term survival of these dolphins and, by extension, the overall health of the river's aquatic life.
• The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) started a dolphin conservation program in 2016 to work towards this important mission.
• Dolphins play an important role in keeping the marine environment in balance.
• Dolphins worldwide face various natural and human-induced threats which include hunting, entanglement in fishing nets, overfishing, climate change, ship strikes, tourism activities, toxic contamination, noise pollution, oil and gas development, and habitat degradation.
• The conservation of dolphins and their aquatic habitat through the use of modern technology by engaging with fishermen and other ocean-dependent populations is proposed under the project.
• The project will focus on key activities including strengthening of protection activities through better patrolling anti-poaching activities and strengthening of the surveillance and patrolling teams with modern equipment and technology;
• Rescue and rehabilitation activities through the strengthening of veterinary services, patrolling and training, etc;
• Dolphin habitat improvement through the restoration of coastal eco-system like mangroves, corals, sea grass, etc;
• Removal of ghost nets and reduction of pollution in coastal areas;
• enhancing awareness through the celebration of “National Dolphin Day”

What is the News ?

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is holding an art exhibition in New Delhi from November 3–5, 2023, titled "Silent Conversation: From Margins to the Center."

Facts About:

• The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has been constituted under section 38 L (1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• It is a statutory body, established in 2006 under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

Objectives:        

• Providing statutory authority to Project Tiger so that compliance with its directives becomes legal.
• Fostering Center-State accountability in Tiger Reserve management by providing a foundation for MoUs with states within the federal structure.
• Including a provision for parliamentary oversight.
• Addressing the livelihood interests of local residents in areas surrounding Tiger Reserves.
• Members of NTCA:

              Minister in charge of MoEFCC (as Chairperson),

              Minister of State in MoEFCC (as Vice-Chairperson),

              Three members of Parliament, the Secretary (MoEFCC), and other members.