WILDLIFE CONSERVATION EFFORTS Study Materials

Wildlife Conservation

Wildlife Conservation

Conservation, in simple terms, means using natural resources (biotic and abiotic resources) wisely and avoiding their wasteful or harmful use.

Wildlife conservation specifically focuses on protecting wild animals and their habitats, like forests, to maintain the health of natural ecosystems.

The main dangers to wildlife conservation include destroying, damaging, or breaking up habitats, excessive use (such as wildlife trade or over-hunting), illegal hunting, pollution, and climate change.

To tackle these problems, both national governments and international organizations have made efforts to safeguard Earth’s wildlife.

Regulating Trade in Wildlife

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna & Flora (CITES)

CITES, also known as the Washington Convention, is a global agreement among governments aimed at safeguarding wild animals and plants from threats posed by international trade.

It was established in 1975 following a resolution by members of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 1963.

Its primary goal is to prevent the exploitation of endangered species by regulating their international trade.

Parties to CITES

Parties to CITES are countries that have agreed to abide by the terms of the Convention.

Being a Party means that a country is legally bound by CITES regulations. However, CITES itself does not replace national laws. Instead, it offers a framework that each Party must respect.

It’s up to each Party to enact their own domestic laws to ensure that CITES regulations are enforced within their borders.

Conference of Parties to CITES (CoP)

The Conference of Parties to CITES (CoP) is a gathering held every two to three years where governments from around the world come together to discuss and decide on regulations related to the trade of endangered species.

Representatives from CITES Parties, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders attend these meetings.

However, only representatives from CITES Parties have the authority to vote on decisions made during the CoP.

During these meetings, decisions are made regarding proposals to list, remove, or modify the listing of species on the CITES appendices, as well as policies and measures aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the Convention.

Functioning of CITES

CITES operates by regulating international trade in certain species through a licensing system. Any import or export of species covered by CITES requires authorization.

Each country designates Management Authorities to oversee the licensing system and Scientific Authorities to provide advice on the impact of trade on species.

In India, the Director of Wildlife Preservation within the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change serves as the Management Authority, and other competent bodies like the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) can also grant permits.

Scientific Authorities in India include organizations such as the Zoological Survey of India, Botanical Survey of India, and Wildlife Institute of India.

Protection offered to species by CITES

CITES provides protection to over 35,000 species of animals and plants by categorizing them into three different Appendices based on the degree of protection they require:

Appendix I

Species listed in Appendix I are those that are threatened with extinction.

Trade in specimens of these species is only permitted under exceptional circumstances.

Appendix II

Species listed in Appendix II are not necessarily threatened with extinction, but trade must be regulated to ensure it does not harm their survival.

Proposals to amend Appendix II are discussed and voted on at regular meetings of the Conference of the Parties (CoP).

Appendix III:

This Appendix includes species that are protected in at least one country, and that country has requested assistance from other CITES Parties in controlling their trade.

The 18th Conference of the Parties to CITES (CoP18)

CoP18 was held in 2019, in Geneva, Switzerland.

The last CITES CoP (CoP17) was held in 2016 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

At the 18th meeting, the Conference of the Parties adopted a new Strategic Vision 2021-2030 taking into account the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the post- 2020 agenda.

The 19th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES CoP19) was held from 14 to 25 November 2022 in Panama City, Panama.

Major developments in CITES CoP19

The COP19 to CITES adopted the decision on a Big Cat Task Force.

The CITES Secretariat has proposed a tentative budget of $150,000 for the Task Force which will be secured by external funding from the United States.

The CITES Secretariat will provide support to the Task Force to develop strategies to improve international cooperation to enforce CITES protocols to curb the trade in big cats.

Countries voted to include 54 species of requiem sharks, six species of hammerheads and 37 guitarfish in CITES Appendix II.

This means that nearly all species of sharks hunted for their fins to be used for shark fin soup, are now CITES control.

Countries voted to amend the appendices for wild animals, which include transferring hippopotamus, straw-headed bulbul, red-crowned roofed turtle and African elephant to Appendix I.

The red-crowned roofed turtle is already classified as critically endangered under the IUCN Red List.

The COP19 to CITES urged countries to remove references to parts and derivatives of pangolins “from the official pharmacopoeia” to help save the species.

The pangolin is ‘the most trafficked animal in the world’. Pangolins are listed in Appendix I of CITES in accordance with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Red List.

The COP19 to CITES has also accepted a proposal to include sea cucumbers in Appendix II of the Convention.

An analysis published by the Wildlife Conservation Society-India (WCS-India) showed that sea cucumbers were the most frequently trafficked marine species in India from 2015-2021.

Tamil Nadu had recorded the highest number of marine wildlife seizures during this period, according to the analysis. The state was followed by Maharashtra, Lakshadweep and Karnataka.

Sea cucumbers perform the same role on the seabed that earthworms perform on land.

India’s proposal for induction of fresh water turtle Batagur kachuga from Appendix II to Appendix I of CITES was accepted when introduced.

Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo) was included in CITES Appendix II after CITES CoP19. This will uplift restriction exports of furniture and handicrafts made of Dalbergia sissoo from India, providing huge relief to handicraft exporters of India.

The launch of a World Wildlife Trade Report at CoP19 showed that international trade in wildlife is worth more than $200 billion annually to the world economy.

The 20th Conference of the Parties (CoP20) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is scheduled for the second half of 2025. The location of the meeting is still being determined.

Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (MIKE)

The Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (MIKE) program was established in 1997 through a resolution adopted at the 10th Conference of the Parties to CITES.

MIKE is an international initiative aimed at assessing the levels, trends, and causes of elephant mortality.

It gathers information to support decision-making concerning elephant conservation efforts in Asia and Africa.

The data and analyses provided by MIKE are presented at annual CITES meetings and Conferences of the Parties.

MIKE’s core mandate includes capacity building in elephant range states to enhance conservation efforts.

Currently, there are 28 MIKE sites in Asia, spread across 13 countries.

India hosts the most MIKE sites, with 10 locations, followed by two sites each in Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand. Additionally, there is one site each in Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

MIKE Sites in India

Chirang-Ripu Elephant Reserve, Assam

Deomali Elephant Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh

Dihing Patkai Elephant Reserve, Assam

Garo Hills Elephant Reserve, Meghalaya

Eastern Dooars Elephant Reserve, West Bengal

Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve, Odisha

Shivalik Elephant Reserve, Uttarakhand

Mysore Elephant Reserve, Karnataka

Nilgiri Elephant Reserve, Tamil Nadu

Wayanad Elephant Reserve, Kerala

In 2017, CITES engaged the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to implement the Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (MIKE) Asia program in two sub-regions:

South Asia, which includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Southeast Asia, covering Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.

It’s important to note that MIKE relies entirely on donor support. The European Union has been the primary donor for the MIKE program in Africa since 2001 and in Asia since 2017.

The Wildlife Trade Monitoring Network (TRAFFIC)

TRAFFIC, an NGO, operates globally to monitor trade in

wild animals and plants within the context of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Unlike CITES, which is a multilateral treaty, TRAFFIC is a joint program of the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Cambridge, United Kingdom, TRAFFIC’s mission is to ensure that trade in wild plants and animals does not threaten the conservation of nature.

It investigates and analyzes wildlife trade trends, patterns, impacts, and drivers to provide comprehensive knowledge on the trade in wild animals and plants.

Policies and Laws Concerning CITES in India

In India, international trade in all wild fauna and flora is regulated through various policies and laws, including:

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: This act provides for the protection of wildlife and the regulation of hunting and trade in wildlife and its derivatives.

Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992: This act empowers the government to regulate foreign trade in India and includes provisions related to the import and export of goods, including wildlife.

Foreign Trade Policy of the Government of India: This policy outlines the regulations and procedures governing foreign trade, including the import and export of wildlife species.

Customs Act, 1962: This act regulates the import and export of goods into and out of India and includes provisions related to the enforcement of regulations concerning wildlife trade.

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, is a significant legislation in India aimed at safeguarding wildlife and regulating trade related to it.

Schedule I: It prohibits harming endangered species throughout India.

Schedule II: Hunting of species requiring special protection is regulated through licensing.

Schedule III: Regulates hunting of big game species.

Schedule IV: Regulates hunting of small game species.

Schedule V: Specifies species considered vermin, which may be hunted without restrictions.

Schedule VI: Prohibits trade in specified plants from designated areas.

CITES Compliance: Schedule VI lists Indian plants included in CITES appendices, ensuring their protection.

Trade Prohibition: Trade in animals listed in Schedule I and Part II of Schedule II is prohibited.

Ivory Trade: The Act disallows trade in all types of imported ivory, including that of the African elephant.

Amendments: The Act was amended in 2006 to establish the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Wild Life Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) with statutory backing.

Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act 1992

The Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, is legislation in India concerning the regulation of import and export.

The Act stipulates that no export or import should occur unless in accordance with its provisions.

The Act empowers the Government of India to issue

orders or provisions for prohibiting or regulating the import or export of any class of goods. This includes wildlife specimens and their products.

In essence, the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, provides the legal framework through which the Government of India can regulate and control the import and export of various goods, including wildlife specimens, to ensure compliance with national and international regulations.

Foreign Trade Policy (2009-2014)

The Foreign Trade Policy (2009-2014) is a set of guidelines announced periodically by the Ministry of Commerce.

The policy contains information about which wildlife and wildlife products are prohibited or permitted for import or export purposes.

The policy decisions regarding wild fauna and flora are made in consultation with the Management Authority for CITES in India. This ensures alignment with international agreements and conventions.

The policy is enforced through the Customs Act, 1962. This means that customs authorities regulate and monitor the import and export of wildlife and wildlife products according to the provisions outlined in the Foreign Trade Policy.

EXIM Policy

The EXIM Policy governs the export and import of wild animals and plants, their parts, and products.

Export/import of wild animals and plants, along with their parts and products, is permitted for research purposes and exchange between zoos. However, this activity requires licensing by the Director General of

Foreign Trade (DGFT).

The current policy prohibits the commercial import of African ivory due to the ban imposed by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

Import of other derivatives of wildlife is restricted and can only be carried out with prior permission from the DGFT.

Import of wild animals as pets is also regulated under the provisions of CITES. This means that importing such animals requires compliance with CITES regulations, which aim to ensure the sustainable trade of endangered species.

Enforcement: Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB)

The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) was established in 2007 under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 to combat wildlife crime and illegal trade of wildlife parts and products.

WCCB is designated as the nodal agency for enforcement related to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

It operates as a statutory multi-disciplinary body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

WCCB has its headquarters in Delhi, with five regional offices located in Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Jabalpur. Additionally, it has five border units situated at strategic locations across the country.

Under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, WCCB is responsible for

Collecting and collating intelligence on organized wildlife crime.

Disseminating intelligence to state and other enforcement agencies to apprehend criminals.

Establishing a centralized wildlife crime data bank.

Coordinating actions by various agencies to enforce wildlife protection provisions.

Assisting    international    organizations    andfo    reign authorities in wildlife crime control.

Capacity building of wildlife crime enforcement agencies.

Assisting state governments in prosecuting wildlife crime cases successfully.

Advising the Government of India on wildlife crime- related issues.

Assistance to Customs Authorities: WCCB also provides assistance and advice to Customs authorities in inspecting consignments of flora and fauna in accordance with the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, CITES, and the EXIM Policy.

Convention on Migratory Species (CMS)

The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), also known as the Bonn Convention or the Global Wildlife Conference, is an international treaty established under

the United Nations Environment Programme.

The CMS was signed in 1979 in Bonn, Germany, and it entered into force in 1983.

It is the only global and UN-based intergovernmental organization dedicated solely to the conservation of terrestrial, aquatic, and avian migratory species across their entire range.

The primary objective of the CMS is to conserve migratory species and their habitats through international cooperation. This includes addressing threats to migratory species and promoting their conservation.

Classification of Species Under CMS

Under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), species are classified into two main categories:

Appendix I: This includes migratory species that are threatened with extinction. Parties to the convention are required to provide strict protection to these species throughout their range. Measures may include habitat conservation, population monitoring, and enforcement

of laws against hunting, capture, or disturbance.

Appendix II: Migratory species listed in Appendix II are those that would significantly benefit from international cooperation. Parties are encouraged to engage in collaborative efforts to conserve and manage these species and their habitats. Such cooperation may involve the development and implementation of conservation and management plans, research programs, and capacity-

building initiatives.

CMS COP13

CMS COP13, held in February 2020 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, marked several significant developments.

India was designated as the President of the Conference of Parties (COP) for the next three years.

Ten new species were added to the CMS Appendices at COP13. Seven of these species were added to Appendix I, which provides the strictest protection under the convention. Notable additions include the Asian Elephant, Great Indian Bustard, and Bengal Florican, all of which are classified as Critically Endangered.

Other Species: The other species added to the CMS Appendices include the Oceanic White-tip Shark, Jaguar (South America), Little Bustard (found in highlands of Central Asia, Iberian Peninsula, and Kashmir), and Antipodean Albatross (a seabird).

Gandhinagar Declaration: COP13 adopted the Gandhinagar Declaration, emphasizing the importance of “ecological connectivity” and calling for its integration into the new Framework expected to be adopted at the UN Biodiversity Conference.

World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF)

The World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) is a prominent NGO focused on wilderness preservation and reducing human impact on the environment.

WWF was established in 1961 and is headquartered in Gland, Switzerland. It was originally named the World Wildlife Fund.

WWF works towards the preservation of wilderness areas and habitats, as well as reducing human activities that negatively impact the environment, such as deforestation, habitat destruction, and pollution.

WWF collaborates with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to operate the Wildlife Trade Monitoring Network (TRAFFIC). TRAFFIC focuses on monitoring and combating illegal wildlife trade, which poses a significant threat to many species around

the world.

WWF publishes the Living Planet Report every two years since 1998. This report provides comprehensive assessments of the state of the world’s ecosystems, biodiversity, and the impact of human activities on global

wildlife populations.

United Nations Environment Assembly

The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) is a significant body for global environmental governance.

UNEA is the top decision-making authority on environmental issues within the United Nations system. It comprises all 193 UN Member States (a universal platform for environmental decision-making).

UNEA was established following the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, also known as Rio+20, which took place in 2012. It represents a concerted effort to address pressing environmental challenges on a global scale.

UNEA convenes biennially, providing a regular forum for member states to discuss and address key environmental issues, set priorities, and develop strategies for global environmental governance.

The primary objectives of UNEA include setting priorities for global environmental policies, developing international environmental law, and contributing to the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It serves as a crucial platform for advancing environmental sustainability at the global level.

Governing Body of UNEP: UNEA also serves as the governing body of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), providing strategic direction and oversight to UNEP’s activities and initiatives.

Blue Flag Beaches

CRZ Blue Flag Beaches3

CRZ Blue Flag Beaches refer to beaches in Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) areas that have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag certification.

The Blue Flag certification is an eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators that meet stringent criteria related to environmental sustainability and management.

The certification is awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a Denmark-based non-profit organization. FEE oversees the Blue Flag program globally.

The Blue Flag program originated in France in 1985 and expanded to include areas outside of Europe in 2001. It has since become a globally recognized symbol of environmental excellence for coastal areas.

Criteria: Blue Flag certification is based on four main criteria:

Water Quality

Environmental Management

Environmental Education

Safety

The Blue Flag program aims to promote sustainable development in coastal areas by encouraging responsible management and conservation practices.

Source: TOI

The selection is based on 33 stringent parameters that evaluate various aspects of the beach’s environmental sustainability and management practices.

An eminent international jury is responsible for evaluating the beaches against these criteria. The jury comprises

members from prestigious organizations including:

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE)

International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

Blue Flag Beaches in India

13 pilot beaches have been identified by MoEF for the certification

Ghoghla Beach (Diu)

Shivrajpur Beach (Gujarat)

Bhogave (Maharashtra),

Padubidri (Karnataka)

Kasarkod (Karnataka),

Kappad Beach (Kerala),

Kovalam Beach (Tamil Nadu),

Eden Beach (Puducherry),

Rushikonda Beach (Andhra Pradesh),

Miramar Beach (Goa),

Golden Beach (Odisha),

Radhanagar Beach (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) and

Bangaram Beach (Lakshadweep).

8 Indian Beaches got the certification in October 2020

Shivrajpur (Dwarka-Gujarat)

Ghoghla (Diu)

Kasarkod [NOT Kasargod which is in Kerala]

Padubidri (Karnataka)

Kappad (Kerala)

Rushikonda (AP)

Golden Beach (Odisha)

Radhanagar (A&N Islands)

Blue Flag Beaches

Total number of blue flag beaches in India are 18 as of

October 2025.

Five beaches of Maharashtra got certification in 2025 —

Shrivardhan

Nagaon

Parnaka

Guhagar

Ladghar

These have been provided the international Blue Flag certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark

BEAMS (Beach Environment & Aesthetics Management Services)

BEAMS (Beach Environment & Aesthetics Management Services) is a program initiated by the Society for Integrated Coastal Management, operating under the Environment Ministry, as part of its Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) project.

BEAMS aims to reduce pollution in coastal waters by implementing various measures to minimize waste and contaminants entering the marine environment.

The program focuses on promoting sustainable development of beach facilities, ensuring that infrastructure and activities are designed and managed in a way that minimizes negative impacts on the coastal ecosystem.

BEAMS works to protect and conserve coastal ecosystems and natural resources, safeguarding biodiversity and sensitive habitats along the coast.

It encourages local authorities and stakeholders to maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and safety on the beaches. This includes regular monitoring, waste management initiatives, and safety measures to ensure a positive experience for visitors.

BEAMS promotes beach recreation in absolute harmony with nature, emphasizing responsible tourism practices that respect the environment and local communities.

Through these efforts, BEAMS contributes to the sustainable management of coastal areas, fostering

environmental conservation while supporting recreational activities and tourism development along the coast.

Society of Integrated Coastal Management (SICOM)

The Society of Integrated Coastal Management (SICOM) is an organization created by the Ministry of Environment.

Its main goal is to ensure that coastal and marine environments are vibrant, healthy, and resilient.

SICOM oversees the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) practices and the ENCORE project in all 13 Coastal States/Union Territories.

It serves as the secretariat to the National Coastal Zone Management Authority (NCZMA), coordinating efforts to manage and protect coastal areas across the country.

Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM)

Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) is a strategy aimed at helping the government develop the ability to implement a comprehensive approach to managing coastal areas.

This approach is being tested in three states: Gujarat, Orissa, and West Bengal.

The main goal of ICZM is to safeguard the lives and property of vulnerable communities living along the coast.

Enhancing Coastal & Ocean Resource Efficiency Program (ENCORE)

The Enhancing Coastal & Ocean Resource Efficiency Program (ENCORE) is focused on improving integrated coastal zone management in India.

It aims to enhance the efficiency and resilience of coastal resources while implementing integrated coastal management approaches.

What activities are permitted in the CRZ of certain beaches? The Environment Ministry has relaxed Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules, allowing certain activities and facilities

within the CRZ of beaches, subject to maintaining a minimum distance of 10 meters from the High Tide Line (HTL).

These permitted activities and facilities include

Portable toilet blocks, change rooms, and shower panels.

Greywater treatment plant.

Solid waste management plant.

Purified drinking water facility.

Other associated facilities or infrastructure as required for Blue Flag Certification.

IUCN

The IUCN Red List criteria classify species based on their extinction risk, with several categories indicating varying levels of endangerment:

“Extinct in the wild”: The species survives only in captivity or cultivation.

“Locally extinct”: The species has disappeared from a specific area but may still exist elsewhere.

“Functionally extinct”: The species exists, but there are too few individuals to effectively reproduce and ensure survival.

“Globally extinct”: The species has no surviving members anywhere, indicating complete extinction.

Once a species is declared extinct, it is no longer eligible for protective measures or conservation funding.

Tiger Conservation

Project Tiger (PT)

At the end of the 20th century, the Indian tiger population was estimated to be between 20,000 to 40,000 individuals.

The first comprehensive tiger census conducted in 1972 revealed a sharp decline in tiger numbers, with the population estimated to be a little over 1,800 individuals.

In response to the alarming decline in tiger populations, Project Tiger was launched in 1973, initially at Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand. This initiative aimed to protect tigers and their habitats by establishing designated tiger reserves across the country, by implementing a core- buffer strategy.

Over the years, various tiger reserves have been established across India as part of Project Tiger. These reserves, totaling 58 (march 2025), are spread across the country and are governed by the provisions of the Project Tiger scheme.

Madhav National Park was the 58th tiger reserve of India located in Madhya Pradesh while Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand is India's first tiger reserve established in 1936

Project Tiger operates as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) administers Project Tiger.

The primary aim of Project Tiger is to protect tigers from extinction by ensuring the existence of a viable tiger population in their natural habitats.

To combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade, a dedicated Tiger Protection Force has been established under Project Tiger, tasked with patrolling tiger reserves and safeguarding tigers from threats.

Project Tiger also funds initiatives to relocate villagers from areas prone to human-tiger conflicts. This helps minimize conflicts between humans and tigers while protecting both communities and tiger populations.

Core and Buffer Zones in Tiger Reserves

The various tiger reserves were created in the country based on the ‘core-buffer’ strategy.

Their protection status is same as wildlife sanctuaries. But they are monitored by NTCA (Project Tiger).

Core area

In the management of tiger reserves, a core-buffer strategy is implemented to ensure effective conservation.

The core areas within tiger reserves are identified and designated by the State Government in consultation with an Expert Committee specifically formed for this purpose.

These core areas are strictly protected and are devoid of all human activities. However, in some cases, certain indigenous tribes may still inhabit the core area illegally, although they do not hold any forest rights.

Human activities such as collection of minor forest produce, grazing, and any other disturbances are strictly prohibited within the core area to preserve the natural habitat and minimize human-tiger conflicts.

Legally, the core area holds the status equivalent to that of a national park or wildlife sanctuary.

Buffer areas

Buffer areas in tiger reserves serve as essential peripheral zones surrounding the critical tiger habitats or core areas.

The buffer zone is the area adjacent to the core area of a tiger reserve, serves as a supplementary habitat for dispersing tigers. It also allows for the coexistence of human activities, particularly those of indigenous tribes.

The boundaries of buffer zones are established through consultations with the concerned Gram Sabha (local self-government) and an Expert Committee specifically formed for this purpose. This ensures that the buffer zones are delineated based on local knowledge and expertise.

Another objective is to offer specific developmental support to villages within the buffer zone, aiming to reduce their impact on the core area while promoting sustainable livelihoods.

The Forest Rights Act enacted by the Indian government in 2006 recognizes the rights of certain forest-dwelling communities residing in buffer areas.

In buffer zones, the collection of minor forest-produce and grazing by tribal communities is allowed on a sustainable basis.

Tiger Task Force

As the implementation of Project Tiger highlighted various challenges and gaps in tiger conservation efforts, it became evident that a statutory authority with legal backing was necessary to ensure effective conservation measures.

In response to these needs, a Task Force was convened based on the recommendations of the National Board for Wild Life.

The primary objective of the Tiger Task Force was to identify the challenges and shortcomings in tiger conservation efforts and propose recommendations for addressing them effectively.

The Task Force’s recommendations included advocating for the strengthening of Project Tiger by granting it statutory and administrative powers.

Subsequently, based on the recommendations of the Tiger Task Force, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) was established.

National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) was established in December 2005 following a recommendation of the Tiger Task Force.

The Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2006, introduced provisions for the creation of the National

Tiger Conservation Authority and the Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau (Wildlife Crime Control Bureau). These entities were established to strengthen conservation efforts and combat wildlife crimes, particularly those targeting tigers and other endangered species.

The NTCA is entrusted with the administration of Project Tiger, a significant conservation initiative aimed at protecting and conserving tiger populations and their habitats across India.

The NTCA mandates that the administration of tiger reserves in India be carried out in accordance with its guidelines. Field directors appointed by the NTCA are responsible for the day-to-day management and conservation activities within the tiger reserves.

According to the provisions outlined by the NTCA, no alteration in the boundaries of a tiger reserve can be made without a recommendation from the NTCA and approval from the National Board for Wild Life. Similarly, de-notification of a tiger reserve by a state government can only be done with the approval of the NTCA and the National Board for Wild Life, and that too only in cases of public interest.

NTCA members

The NTCA is chaired by the Minister for Environment and Forests. This position serves as the head of the authority and provides overall guidance and direction in tiger conservation initiatives.

The authority comprises eight expert members who possess qualifications and expertise in wildlife conservation, as well as welfare of tribal communities. These members bring specialized knowledge and insights to inform decision-making and policy formulation related to tiger conservation.

Three Members of Parliament (MPs) are also included in the NTCA. Their involvement ensures political representation and oversight in tiger conservation efforts, helping to bridge the gap between government policies and on-the-ground implementation.

Ex-officio Member Secretary: The Inspector General of Forests, who is in charge of Project Tiger, serves as the ex-officio Member Secretary of the NTCA.

Additionally, there may be other members appointed to the NTCA as deemed necessary.

Functions of NTCA

The NTCA lays down standards and guidelines for tiger conservation in Tiger Reserves, National Parks, and Sanctuaries.

The NTCA is required to prepare an Annual Report on tiger conservation activities, which is then presented in Parliament along with the Audit Report.

State-level Steering Committees are established in Tiger States under the Chairmanship of respective Chief Ministers. These committees are tasked with coordinating, monitoring, and protecting tigers within their respective states.

The NTCA facilitates the preparation of Tiger Conservation Plans by state governments.

Provision is made for states to establish Tiger Conservation Foundations based on successful practices observed in some tiger reserves.

Issues with Project Tiger

The Forest Rights Act enacted in 2006 recognizes the rights of certain forest-dwelling communities in forest areas.

The recognition of forest rights under the Forest Rights Act

Tiger corridors in the country

has sparked debates and disagreements over its impact on tiger conservation. Some argue that granting rights to forest-dwelling communities may lead to increased human-wildlife conflicts or habitat degradation, while others advocate for the inclusion of local communities in conservation efforts as key stakeholders.

Critics argue that Project Tiger has overlooked the role of abuse of power by authorities in exacerbating the tiger crisis. Issues such as corruption, ineffective enforcement of laws, and insufficient governance mechanisms have contributed to illegal wildlife trade, habitat destruction, and poaching.

Tiger Census

Tiger census refers to the process of determining the number of tigers present in a given area. This involves conducting field surveys, using camera traps, and analyzing data to estimate tiger populations accurately.

The Tiger Census Report is produced every four years. This periodic assessment helps monitor changes in tiger populations over time and assess the effectiveness of conservation efforts.

The Tiger Census is carried out collaboratively by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), which is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF), and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). These organizations work together to ensure the accuracy and reliability of census data.

The 2014 tiger census is noteworthy as it resulted in the first-ever estimate of India’s leopard population, which was reported to be around 11,000.

Estimation of Tiger Populations

In the past, the primary method for estimating tiger populations was the “Pugmark Census Technique.” This method involved recording the imprints of tiger paw prints (pugmarks) and using them to identify individual tigers and determine their sex. However, this technique is now predominantly used as an indicator of tiger presence and relative abundance rather than for precise population counts.

In modern tiger census efforts, two main methods are commonly employed:

Camera Trapping: This method involves setting up camera traps in strategic locations within the tiger habitat. When a tiger passes by, the camera is triggered, capturing a photograph of the animal. Tigers are identified based on the unique stripe patterns on their bodies, which serve as natural “fingerprints.”

DNA Fingerprinting: A more recent advancement in tiger population estimation involves DNA analysis of tiger scat (feces). By collecting and analyzing DNA samples from tiger scats found in the wild, researchers can identify individual tigers and determine their genetic diversity.

2018 Census methodology

In the 2018 Tiger Census, a combination of methods was employed to estimate tiger populations accurately.

The census methodology utilized a double sampling approach, which combines ground-based surveys and camera-trap images. This approach was adopted in 2006 after it was discovered that traditional methods like pugmark surveys were not sufficiently accurate.

In the 2018 census, camera traps played a significant role, with approximately 83% of the big cats being individually photographed using these devices.

Forest Department officials conducted ground-based surveys during the initial phases of the census. These surveys involved collecting signs of tiger presence such as scat (feces) and pugmarks (footprints) in various areas.

The information collected during ground-based surveys was plotted on forest maps prepared using remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. This phase, known as Phase 3, involved analyzing the data to assess tiger distribution and habitat use.

In the final phase, data collected from camera traps and ground-based surveys were extrapolated to areas where camera traps could not be deployed.

MSTrIPES – Technology in Wildlife Conservation MSTrIPES, which stands for Monitoring System for Tigers – Intensive Protection and Ecological Status, is a technology-

driven initiative launched across Indian tiger reserves by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in 2010. This software-based monitoring system is designed to enhance wildlife protection efforts.

It comprises two main components

Field-Based Protocols: MSTrIPES provides field-based protocols for patrolling, law enforcement, recording wildlife crimes, and ecological monitoring. Forest guards are equipped with GPS devices to record their patrol routes, along with site-specific data sheets for documenting observations.

Customized GIS Software: The system includes a customized Geographic Information System (GIS) software for storage, retrieval, analysis, and reporting of data collected during patrols. This software enables the creation of spatial databases, allowing for the mapping of patrol tracks and the analysis of trends and patterns in patrol efforts.

In the 2018 tiger census, ground staff involved in the count utilized the MSTrIPES app. This app allows forest guards to record their paths using GPS and upload geo- tagged pictures into the central GIS database in real-time.

The advantages of MSTrIPES include:

GPS-Based Patrolling: Mapping patrol routes using GPS technology helps create a spatial database of patrol tracks, enabling better management and analysis of patrol efforts.

Trend Analysis: Patrol maps generated by MSTrIPES help management analyze trends and patterns in patrolling activities, allowing for the identification of areas that require increased protection efforts.

Real-Time Monitoring: MSTrIPES allows for the identification of shortcomings in patrolling efforts in real- time, enabling prompt corrective actions to be taken.

Proof of Presence: The system serves as proof of presence and patrolling by forest guards in specific areas.

2018 Tiger Census Report

The 2018 Tiger Census is the fourth time that tiger populations have been estimated using the double sampling method. The first census using this method was conducted in 2006, followed by the second in 2010, and the third in 2014.

Important Observations from 2018 tiger census

• Madhya Pradesh (526) has the highest tiger population.

• Karnataka (524) has the second highest tiger population.

• Uttarakhand (442) has the third highest tiger population.

• Among the NE states, Assam (190) has the highest tiger population.

• Tiger population fell in Chhattisgarh and Mizoram.

• There is no change in tiger population in Odisha.

Other Important observations from All India Tiger Estimation Report 2018

India’s Tiger Population: India is home to nearly 70% of the world’s tiger population, with a total of 2,967 tigers recorded in the country.

Significant Increase: The tiger population in India has increased by 33% compared to the previous census conducted in 2014, which reported 2,226 tigers.

Historic Growth: This increase marks the largest growth in both numbers and percentage since the adoption of the capture-mark-recapture method in 2006. The tiger population in India has seen consistent growth over the years, with notable increases in 2010 and 2014 as well.

India has surpassed its commitment made at the St. Petersburg Declaration in 2010 to double tiger numbers by 2022. This achievement demonstrates significant progress in tiger conservation efforts.

Regional Increases: Several states have shown remarkable growth in tiger populations. For example, Madhya Pradesh witnessed a substantial increase of 218 individuals (71%), Maharashtra saw a rise from 190 to 312 tigers (64%), and Uttarakhand gained over 100 tigers (30%).

Top Performers: Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest number of tigers, while Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu showed the most improvement since 2014.

Challenges in Some Reserves: Despite overall growth, some tiger reserves like Buxa, Dampa, and Palamau did not report any tiger sightings, indicating potential challenges in those areas.

Focus on Tigers: The report primarily focuses on tiger populations and does not include data on other predators like leopards.

Forests with potential of increasing tiger population

Sanjay and Guru Ghasidas forests on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh,

Kawal and Srirailam forests in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana,

Simlipal and Satkosia tiger reserves in Odisha,

Manas reserve in Assam,

Buxa reserve in West Bengal,

Palamau reserve in Jharkhand and

Achanakmar and Indravati tiger reserves in Chhattisgarh.

Measures that led to the increase in tiger population

Implementation of wireless communication systems and establishment of outstation patrol camps within tiger reserves have led to a significant decline in poaching activities by enabling better surveillance and rapid response to threats.

Many states have deployed special tiger forces dedicated to combating organized poaching activities.

Measures to control livestock grazing within tiger reserves have helped reduce human-wildlife conflicts and habitat degradation.

Relocation of villages from critical tiger habitats has been facilitated, with financial support provided to families relocating away from tiger reserves. This helps reduce human disturbance and facilitates the expansion of tiger habitats.

The increase in the number of tiger reserves from 28 in 2006 to 52 in 2021 has provided additional protected areas for tigers to thrive.

Status of Tigers Report 2022

According to the 5th Tiger Census in 2022, India is now home to 3,682 Tigers (a minimum 3,167 Tigers), (Ranging from 3,167 – 3,925 Tigers). It was more than double from the Tiger Census in 2006 (1,411 Tigers), which was the first tiger counting survey of India.

The conservation of tigers in India can be thought of as two major phases.

First phase (began in 1970s) with the enactment of the Wildlife Protection Act and the establishment of protected areas that facilitated the conservation of tigers and tropical forests.

Second Phase: Adoption of landscape-level approach and implementation of strict monitoring for tiger conservation, this resulted in an increase in the tiger population from 1,411 in 2006 to 2,967 in 2018.

The information generated from the past four cycles has resulted in major changes in policy and the management of tiger populations. It has also provided scientific data to fully implement provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, in letter and spirit.

Adopted Methodology

The tiger-bearing habitats are categorized into five major landscapes based on biogeography and interconnectivity of the habitats

• Shivalik Hills and Gangetic plains

• Central India Highlands and Eastern Ghats

• Western Ghats

• North Eastern Hills and Brahmaputra Flood Plains

• Sundarbans

The tiger, ungulate, and habitat monitoring method was adopted and implemented across almost 400,000 km2 of India’s forested habitat. This process was carried out in 3 Phases.

Phase I Frontline staff of State Forest Departments of 20 potential tiger bearing States were trained to collect the Phase I data in a digital format on the M-STrIPES mobile application. Entire phase - 1 data was collected using the Mstripes android application.

Phase II - Remotely sensed spatial and attribute covariates

The covariates determine the distribution and abundance of tiger population, these include habitat characteristics and anthropogenic impacts. These covariates were obtained from remotely sensed data and used to model tiger occupancy and abundance, in combination with Phase I data.

Phase III: Camera trap-based Capture-Mark-Recapture

Subsequent to Phase I & II, an adequate area within each landscape was sampled using camera traps. In areas where camera trapping is not possible (logistically or due to insurgency), and tiger densities are very low, molecular tools are used to determine the presence of tiger by extracting DNA from scats collected in such areas.

The methodology followed for the population estimate is a derivation of the double sampling concept, wherein indices or raw counts of abundance obtained from the entire sample space are calibrated against absolute density obtained from limited samples. This approach estimates tigers directly within camera trapped areas and extrapolates it to areas with tigers (information obtained in phase I), but not camera trapped, based on joint

distribution of covariates.

Observations and Results

The fifth cycle of All India Tiger Estimation (2022-23) covered forested habitats in 19 states of India. Minimum tiger estimate is 3167 and a total of 3080 individual tigers (> 1 year of age) were photo-captured, which is more than the ones captured in 2018 (2461 tigers). The Spatially Explicit Capture Recapture (SECR) based estimate is 3682 and should be considered as the population estimate of the country.

India is now home to around 75% of the global tiger population.

India’s tiger population has experienced a growth of 6.1% from 2006 to 2022.

    Tiger density, extent and population blocks in India, 2022    

Stateswith    highest    number    of    tigers     Madhya Pradesh (785) > Karnataka (563) > Uttarakhand

(560) > Maharashtra (444) > Tamil Nadu (306).

States showing greatest growth (number wise) since 2018 Madhya Pradesh > Maharashtra > Uttarakhand > Tamil Nadu > Assam

States showing greatest growth (percentage) since 2018 Bihar > Goa > Madhya Pradesh > Maharashtra > Andhra Pradesh

Tiger Reserves with highest number of tigers

Corbett (Uttarakhand-260)> Bandipur (Karnataka-150)

> Nagarahole (Karnataka-141) > Bandhavgarh (MP-135) [Dudhwa TR (UP-135)] > Mudumalai (TN-114)

Tiger Reserves with zero tiger population: Sahyadri (Maharashtra); Satkosia (Odisha); Kawal (Telangana); Dampa (Mizoram); Kamlang (Arunachal Pradesh)

The most notable increase in tiger population is observed in Central India and the Shivalik Hills and Gangetic Plains, which is primarily contributed by the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttarakhand.

The situation is not uniform across all regions. The tiger population in the Western Ghats has remained relatively stable.

Concerns

Some states have reported, alarming tiger population trends.

Mizoram and Nagaland have reported zero tiger signs

and sightings, raising concerns about the absence of tigers in these areas.

Jharkhand has documented only a single individual tiger, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation measures to protect and enhance tiger populations in these regions.

Survival of the tiger population in Odisha, is currently under serious threat from poaching activities.

Approximately 35% of the tiger reserves in the country urgently require enhanced protection measures.

Way Forward

Combat poaching - strengthen anti-poaching measures and raise awareness about the importance of conserving tigers in areas recording tiger poaching cases.

Enhancing protection measures in tiger reserves

- reducing human dependence, habitat restoration, ungulate supplementation, and subsequent tiger reintroduction.

When reintroducing or supplementing ungulates or tigers, individuals should be sourced from within the landscape.

International Efforts Towards Tiger Conservation

The Global Tiger Initiative

The Global Tiger Initiative (GTI) is a collaborative effort launched in 2008 to save wild tigers from extinction, uniting governments, NGOs, civil society, and scientific communities worldwide. Initially focused solely on tiger conservation, the initiative expanded its scope in 2013 to include Snow Leopards.

Key founding partners of the GTI include

World Bank: A leading international financial institution providing financial and technical assistance to developing countries.

Global Environment Facility (GEF): An international partnership of 183 countries working to address global environmental issues and promote sustainable development.

Smithsonian Institution: The world’s largest museum, education, and research complex.

Save the Tiger Fund: A funding initiative that supported tiger conservation projects in Asia from 1995 to 2011.

International Tiger Coalition: A coalition comprising more than 40 non-governmental organizations advocating for tiger conservation and protection

The GTI is spearheaded by the 13 tiger range countries (TRCs), which include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, Thailand, and Vietnam. These countries work together to develop and implement conservation strategies to safeguard tiger populations and their habitats on a global scale.

St. Petersburg Declaration and Global Tiger Recovery Program

The St. Petersburg Declaration on Tiger Conservation was adopted during an International Tiger Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia in 2010. This declaration endorsed the Global Tiger Recovery Program, aimed at doubling the number of wild tigers across tiger range countries (TRCs) from around 3,200 to over 7,000 by 2022.

Key points include Successes

India, Nepal, and Russia have demonstrated that tiger recovery is achievable despite challenges such as poaching, funding constraints, and sustaining community livelihoods.

For instance, India saw an increase in its tiger population from 1,706 in 2010 to 2,226 in 2015.

Failures

Despite conservation efforts, the global tiger population remains critically endangered, with only around 3,900 tigers remaining in the wild, according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

Tiger numbers continue to decline in South-East Asia, indicating ongoing challenges in tiger conservation efforts in that region.

TX2 Award and Tiger Conservation Excellence Award

TX2 Award and Tiger Conservation Excellence Award are prestigious recognitions given to sites that significantly contribute to achieving the TX2 goal, which aims to double the population of wild tigers by 2022.

TX2 Award: This award is bestowed upon a site that has demonstrated a remarkable increase in its tiger population since 2010. For example, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve received the inaugural TX2 Award in 2020 for its outstanding efforts in tiger conservation and population growth.

Tiger Conservation Excellence Award: This award recognizes a site that has excelled in at least 2 out of 5 key themes related to tiger conservation:

Tiger and prey population monitoring, including tiger translocation and prey augmentation.

Effectivesite    management,    assessed        through Conservation Assured | Tiger Standards (CA|TS).

Enhanced law enforcement measures.

Community-based conservation and mitigation of human-wildlife conflicts.

Habitat and prey management.

The Transboundary Manas Conservation Area, located along the India-Bhutan border, received the Tiger Conservation Excellence Award for 2020. This area comprises the Manas National Park in Assam, India (500 sq km), and the Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan (1,057 sq km).

Conservation Assured | Tiger Standards (CA|TS or CATS)

CA|TS survey is the first and largest rapid assessment

conducted to evaluate site-based tiger conservation efforts across Asia.

Tiger conservation areas undergo an accreditation process under CA|TS, wherein they provide evidence demonstrating their adherence to a set of criteria for effective conservation management.

CA|TS operates as a collaborative effort involving governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and tiger conservation areas. This partnership ensures a collective approach to conservation efforts.

CA|TS sets a set of minimum standards that serve as benchmarks for managing conservation sites. These standards are designed to ensure the effective protection and management of tiger habitats and populations.

The World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) plays a crucial role in assisting tiger range countries in implementing CA|TS. By providing support and guidance, WWF helps countries meet the required standards for effective tiger conservation.

Global Tiger Forum

The Global Tiger Forum (GTF) was established in 1994 with its headquarters located in New Delhi.

The primary objective of the Global Tiger Forum is to spearhead a global campaign aimed at conserving tigers, their prey, and their habitats.

The General Assembly of the GTF convenes once every three years to discuss and address pertinent issues related to tiger conservation.

The forum serves as a platform for international collaboration and coordination among member countries and stakeholders to advocate for and implement strategies to safeguard tigers and their ecosystems.

Elephant Conservation

Elephant Conservation

Difference between African Elephant and Asian Elephant

Elephants are matriarchal, meaning they live in female-led groups.

Difference between African Forest Elephant and African Savanna Elephant

Ecological Importance of Elephants (Keystone Species)

Elephants’ nomadic behavior, including their daily and seasonal migrations, plays a crucial role in shaping their environment. These movements help maintain habitat diversity and prevent overgrowth in certain areas, creating clearings that allow for the regeneration of vegetation.

Elephants act as landscape architects by creating clearings in forests through their foraging activities. This prevents the dominance of certain plant species and promotes the growth of others.

As elephants travel, they disperse seeds through their feces, facilitating the spread and germination of plant species across different areas.

During droughts, elephants dig holes to access water, benefiting other wildlife in the area. Additionally, their

footprints collect water, providing hydration for smaller creatures during rainfall.

Elephant dung serves as a source of nourishment for plants and provides a habitat for insects.

Elephants play a role in the food chain as both prey and scavengers. While apex predators like tigers may hunt young elephants, elephant carcasses provide food for a variety of scavengers and decomposers.

Umbrella Effect: Preserving large areas for elephants to roam freely creates suitable habitats for numerous other animal and plant species. By safeguarding elephant populations, conservation efforts also protect the broader biodiversity of the ecosystem.

Project Elephant

Project Elephant was initiated in 1992 as a centrally

sponsored scheme aimed at conserving the elephant population in their natural habitats.

In 2010, the elephant was designated as the National Heritage Animal of India.

Unlike tigers facing the threat of extinction, elephants confront the challenge of attrition, which refers to a gradual reduction in their numbers. While there hasn’t been a significant increase or decrease in elephant populations, there is mounting pressure on their habitats due to various factors.

The primary objectives of Project Elephant include:

Assisting states with wild elephant populations to ensure the long-term survival of viable elephant populations in their natural habitats.

Addressing human-elephant conflicts, which arise due to habitat encroachment and competition for resources.

Developing scientific and planned management measures

for the conservation of elephants, including habitat management and population monitoring.

Protecting elephants from poaching, illegal ivory trade, and other unnatural causes of death through enhanced enforcement and anti-poaching efforts.

Elephant Corridor

Elephant corridors are narrow, linear pathways within natural habitats that provide safe passage for elephants to move between secure habitats without human disturbance.

A study called “Right of Passage,” conducted by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) in collaboration with Project Elephant, has identified 101 elephant corridors across India.

These corridors are predominantly located in northeastern India, with additional corridors found in southern India, central India, northern West Bengal, and northwestern India.

Threats to Elephant Corridors

Developmental activities like construction, road expansion, railways, resorts, and energized electric fencing, lead to habitat fragmentation and destruction.

Protected areas often cannot provide enough grazing grounds for elephants, forcing them to search for food outside these reserves.

Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC): Human-elephant conflict is a severe issue in India, with over 400 human fatalities annually and significant crop and property damage. Encounters between humans and elephants often occur due to habitat encroachment and competition for resources.

Coal and iron ore mining pose significant threats to elephant corridors in central and eastern India. These activities result in habitat destruction and further exacerbate human-elephant conflicts.

States like Orissa, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh, known for their mineral wealth, also have a high number of elephant corridors, leading to increased human-elephant conflicts in these regions.

Poaching for elephant ivory remains a serious problem, as tusks are highly valuable on the black market.

Mitigation

Whenever possible, elephant corridors should be connected with nearby protected areas to provide

continuous habitat for elephants. This helps in maintaining their natural movement patterns and reduces the risk of habitat fragmentation.

Designating elephant corridors as Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) or conservation reserves can provide legal protection and help conserve the habitat and wildlife within these corridors.

Engaging local communities in corridor conservation efforts is essential. Communities can be sensitized about the importance of elephant corridors and encouraged to participate in their protection. Voluntary relocation programs can also be implemented to move communities out of conflict zones and into safer areas.

Efforts should be made to prevent further fragmentation of forest habitats due to encroachment from urban areas or developmental projects. Land use planning and zoning regulations can help mitigate habitat loss and maintain connectivity between protected areas and elephant corridors.

Haathi Mere Saathi

Haathi Mere Saathi campaign, launched by the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), aims to:

Raise Awareness: The campaign aims to increase awareness among the public about the importance of elephant conservation and the challenges faced by these majestic creatures.

Foster Friendship: It seeks to foster a sense of companionship and empathy between people and elephants, emphasizing the need for peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife.

International Collaboration: The campaign is part of the broader “Elephant-8” initiative, which involves collaboration between eight countries (India, Botswana, the Republic of Congo, Indonesia, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Thailand) to address elephant conservation issues.

Public Engagement: Through various outreach activities, the campaign encourages public participation in elephant conservation efforts, highlighting the role that individuals can play in protecting these iconic animals and their habitats.

India’s 1st DNA-Based Elephant Census 2025

• Duration- 2021-2025

• It is reported that the population of the elephant is declined by 25% in a span of 8 years. The census was carried out by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) under Project Elephant (1992)

Greater One-horned Rhinoceros

GREATER ONE-HORNED RHINOCEROS

Rhino Species Across the World

White Rhino & Black Rhino:

• Found in Africa.

• The Black Rhino is smaller in size compared to the White Rhino.

Javan Rhino:

• Only a small number survive in Java and Vietnam.

Sumatran Rhino:

• The smallest species of rhinoceros.

• Approximately 30 to 80 Sumatran rhinos remain in the world, mainly on the Indonesian island of Sumatra.

Great One-Horned Rhino:

• Found only in India.

Horn Variation:

• Both African and Sumatran rhinoceros have two horns, while the Indian and Javan rhinos have a single horn.

Wild Population:

• Approximately 24,500 rhinos survive in the wild.

• More than two-thirds of these are white rhinos.

Threats:

• Rhinos are targeted by poachers for their horns, which are composed of keratin similar to human hair and nails.

• The horns are highly valued in traditional Asian medicine, leading to illegal hunting and trade.

These rhino species face significant threats from poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflicts, making conservation efforts crucial to their survival.

India’s Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros (Indian Rhino)

• Habitat: Found in tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas, and shrublands.

• Historical Range: Once roamed across the northern part of the Indian Subcontinent.

• Current Range: Now restricted to the alluvial grasslands of the Terai regions of India, Bhutan, and Nepal, as well as the Brahmaputra basin.

• Major Populations: Concentrated in Kaziranga National Park, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and Manas National Park.

•
Size: Largest of the rhino species, second in size only to the Asian elephant.

• Horn: Both males and females possess a single horn.

• Threats: Poaching for its horn (believed to have medicinal properties in some Southeast Asian countries), habitat loss, and habitat fragmentation.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

• CITES: Appendix I

• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I

Conservation Efforts by India

• Indian Rhino Vision (IRV) 2020: Adopted by the Forest Department of Assam in 2005, in collaboration with WWF India and the International Rhino Foundation, aims to increase the population of Indian rhinos in the wild.

• New Delhi Declaration on Asian Rhinos 2019: Announced by five rhino-range nations (India, Bhutan, Nepal, Indonesia, and Malaysia) for the conservation and protection of rhinoceros species.

• DNA Profiling Project: The Government of India initiated a project to create DNA profiles of all rhinos in the country, aiding in their identification and conservation efforts.

• National Rhino Conservation Strategy: Launched in 2019, this strategy provides for the comprehensive measures for the conservation of the Indian Rhino, focusing on habitat preservation, anti-poaching initiatives, community involvement, and research.

India Rhino Vision (IRV) 2020

• The India Rhino Vision (IRV) 2020 aimed to safeguard the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros by spreading its population across multiple protected areas in Assam.

• Recognizing the risks of concentrating rhinos in a single area like Kaziranga, conservationists collaborated with the Bodoland Territorial Council and the Assam

government in 2005 to develop a long-term strategy for rhino management and protection.

• The goal was to establish a population of 3,000 wild Greater One-Horned Rhinos spread across seven protected areas in Assam by the year 2020.

• Translocating rhinos from overcrowded areas like Kaziranga to other suitable habitats became the main strategy of IRV 2020. Potential habitat areas like Manas National Park, Dibru Saikhowa Wildlife Sanctuary, and Laokhowa-Bura Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary were identified for this purpose.

• Manas National Park was chosen as the first site for rhino translocation. The process involved relocating rhinos from Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary to these identified areas.

• IRV 2020 concluded with the successful release of two rhinos into Assam’s Manas National Park, marking a significant step towards achieving the program’s goals of rhino conservation and habitat diversification.

Evaluation of IRV 2020

The program is believed to have successfully achieved its target of establishing a population of 3,000 rhinos in Assam.

The growth of a viable rhino population in Manas National Park led to its restoration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

However, the plan to spread rhinos across four protected areas beyond Kaziranga National Park, Orang National Park, and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary faced significant challenges and could not materialize fully.

Translocating rhinos to areas like Manas National Park proved to be challenging due to various factors:

• Ongoing vulnerability to poaching activities.

• Inadequate patrolling staff and security arrangements.

• Negligence in ensuring proper health monitoring of the translocated animals.

• Other Challenges: Additionally, Manas National Park faced various other challenges such as habitat shrinkage, encroachment of corridors, siltation of water bodies, and invasive weed growth. Unchecked tourism activities and road construction along the Indo-Bhutan border further worsened these issues.

Way forward

• The State Forest Department should expand its search areas beyond Manas National Park to include rhino ranges around Pobitora and Amchang Wildlife Sanctuaries. This would help in spreading the rhino population to new suitable habitats and reduce the concentration of rhinos in a single area.

• Designating the Brahmaputra River channel from Kaziranga to Orang as a rhino zone could provide additional protected habitat for rhinos. This would help in creating corridors for rhino movement and facilitate their dispersal to new areas.

Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH)

• Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) is an on-going Centrally Sponsored Scheme.

• Under IDWH, financial assistance is provided to State/ UTs for protection and conservation of wildlife.

Components of the scheme

The Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at providing financial assistance to states and union territories for the protection and conservation of wildlife.

Support to Protected Areas: This component focuses on providing support to national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation reserves, and community reserves to enhance their protection and conservation efforts.

Protection of Wildlife Outside Protected Areas: Under this component, efforts are made to protect wildlife habitats outside designated protected areas. This includes measures to safeguard corridors, buffer zones, and other critical habitats for wildlife.

Recovery Programmes for Critically Endangered Species and Habitats: IDWH allocates funds for implementing recovery programmes aimed at saving critically endangered species and their habitats. The scheme prioritizes species that are locally or regionally endangered and require urgent conservation interventions.

The scheme supports a wide range of species listed as critically endangered in India, including iconic species such as the Asiatic Lion, Indian Rhino, Snow Leopard, and Red Panda. Financial assistance provided through IDWH helps fund conservation initiatives such as habitat restoration, anti-poaching efforts, community engagement, and scientific research aimed at the recovery of these species.

The list of critically endangered (locally) species under recovery programme

Asian Wild Buffalo

Asiatic Lion

Brow-antlered Deer or Sangai

Dugong

Edible Nest Swiftlet

Gangetic River Dolphin

Great Indian Bustard

Hangul

Indian Rhino or Great One-horned Rhinoceros

Jerdon’s Courser

Malabar Civet

Marine Turtles

Nicobar Megapode

Nilgiri Tahr

Snow Leopard

Swamp Deer

Vultures (entire group of species found in India)

Northern River Terrapin

Clouded Leopard

Arabian Sea Humpback Whale

Red Panda

Caracal cat (recently added)

Sea Turtle Project

Sea Turtle Project

The Sea Turtle Conservation Project, initiated by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1999, aims to protect olive ridley turtles and other endangered marine turtles.

The project aims to conserve olive ridley turtles and other endangered marine turtle species by implementing conservation measures and raising awareness among local communities and stakeholders.

The Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, serves as the implementing agency for the project.

The project is implemented in 10 coastal states of India, with a particular focus on the state of Odisha (formerly Orissa), which is a significant nesting site for olive ridley turtles.

Key Activities:

Preparation of inventory maps of sea turtle breeding sites.

Identification of nesting and breeding habitats along the coastline.

Mapping migratory routes taken by sea turtles.

Development of guidelines to safeguard and minimize turtle mortality, including measures to reduce accidental capture in fishing nets.

Use of satellite telemetry to track the migratory routes of olive ridley turtles in the sea.

Promotion of Turtle Exclusion Devices (TEDs) in fishing trawlers to prevent turtle mortality in fishing nets.

Achievements:

Satellite telemetry has helped in locating the migratory routes of olive ridley turtles, providing valuable insights for conservation efforts.

Sensitization of fishermen and state governments on the use of TEDs in fishing trawlers to reduce turtle mortality.

Indian Crocodile Conservation Project Project Hangul and Project Dolphin

Indian Crocodile Conservation Project

The Indian Crocodile Conservation Project has been instrumental in rescuing crocodilian species from the brink of extinction and initiating their recovery.

Objectives:

The project aims to safeguard the existing population of crocodilians in their natural habitats by establishing sanctuaries and protected areas.

Utilizing techniques such as ‘grow and release’ or ‘rear and release’, the project endeavors to rapidly rebuild natural populations of crocodilians.

Captive breeding programs are conducted to breed and raise crocodilians in controlled environments. This helps increase the population and serves as a safeguard against extinction.

The project conducts research to enhance the management strategies for crocodilian conservation.

Training programs are conducted to develop a skilled workforce capable of managing and continuing the conservation efforts. Training is provided at project sites and through specialized institutes such as the Central Crocodile Breeding and Management Training Institute in Hyderabad.

Local communities are actively involved in the project to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards crocodile conservation. Their participation is crucial for the success and sustainability of the conservation efforts.

Project Hangul

Project Hangul, aimed at the conservation of the Kashmir stag, also known as Hangul, has been pivotal in safeguarding this subspecies of Central Asian Red Deer.

Dachigam National Park, located at elevations of 3,035 meters, serves as the primary habitat for Hangul. Project Hangul focuses on conserving and protecting this habitat to ensure it remains suitable for the deer’s survival.

The project addresses various threats faced by Hangul, including habitat destruction, over-grazing by domestic livestock, and poaching. Measures are implemented to mitigate these threats and create a conducive environment for Hangul to thrive.

Project Hangul is a collaborative initiative involving the state of Jammu & Kashmir, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

Regular monitoring of Hangul populations is conducted to assess their status and trends. This helps in identifying any decline in numbers or emerging threats.

Local communities are actively involved in Project Hangul,

fostering a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards the conservation of Hangul. Their participation is vital for the long-term success of the project.

Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are conducted to raise awareness about the importance of conserving Hangul and the need for collective action to protect this endangered species.

Through these concerted efforts, Project Hangul has yielded promising results, with the Hangul population increasing from a critically low number to over 340 individuals by 1980.

Ganges Dolphin

The Ganges River Dolphin, designated as the National Aquatic Animal by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, is a critically important species inhabiting the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu River systems across Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.

With an estimated total population of around 2,000 individuals, the Ganges Dolphin is listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act (1972).

The Ganges Dolphin, along with three other obligate freshwater dolphins worldwide, is exclusively found in rivers and lakes. Its habitat includes the river systems mentioned above.

The survival of the Ganges Dolphin faces various threats, including river water pollution, siltation, accidental entanglement in fishing nets, and poaching for their oil.

Furthermore, alterations to river ecosystems due to barrages and dams pose additional challenges by separating populations.

The Ganges Dolphin is one of the four obligate freshwater dolphin species globally, alongside the baiji of the Yangtze River, the bhulan of the Indus, and the boto of the Amazon River. Unfortunately, the Chinese River Dolphin was declared functionally extinct in 2006.

Efforts to safeguard the Ganges Dolphin include measures to mitigate pollution, regulate fishing practices to reduce accidental bycatch, and conserve and restore river habitats.

Additionally, raising awareness about the importance of conservation and engaging local communities in conservation initiatives are crucial steps towards ensuring the survival of this iconic aquatic mammal