In recent years, the plight of the Great Indian Bustard has served as a poignant symbol of the urgent need for climate action. This majestic bird, once abundant across the Indian subcontinent, now teeters on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by human activities and climate change. The recent verdict on climate action underscores the critical importance of immediate and concerted efforts to mitigate the impacts of global warming on vulnerable species like the Great Indian Bustard. It is a clarion call for policymakers to prioritize conservation measures and adopt sustainable practices to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity for future generations.
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Conservation
In News: A recent article delves into the recent ruling by the Supreme Court concerning climate change and underscores its ramifications for the preservation of the Great Indian Bustard species.
Overview of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
- The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is India’s most critically endangered bird and the state bird of Rajasthan.
- It represents the health of grassland ecology and is mainly found in Rajasthan and Gujarat, with small populations in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Protection Status of GIB
- Critically Endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
- Listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
- Classified under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Challenges and Vulnerabilities
- Faces threats such as collision with power lines, hunting, and habitat loss due to agricultural expansion.
- Slow-reproducing species with year-long parental care of chicks.
- Grassland habitat in areas like the Cholistan desert poses risks due to proximity to international borders.
Recent Updates on GIB Conservation
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in Supreme Court (SC)
- Filed in 2019 seeking conservation measures for GIB.
- Interim ban on overhead power lines imposed by SC.
- SC Order in M.K Ranjitsinh Versus Union of India
- Blanket ban on overhead power lines recalled.
- Expert committee formed to assess feasibility of conservation measures.
Implications of SC Order
- Expanding Environmental Jurisprudence
- SC’s decision broadens the scope to include climate justice and environmental equity.
- Recognition of Climate Change and Human Rights
- Acknowledges the right against adverse climate impacts.
- Shift towards Renewable Energy
- Emphasizes the need to transition from coal to solar for energy security.
Concerns and Considerations
- Over-Emphasis on Renewable Energy
- Raises concerns about environmental and social impacts of aggressive renewable energy promotion.
- Balancing Conservation and Development
- Highlights the need for a holistic approach to balance GIB conservation with renewable energy goals.
Conservation Efforts for GIB
- Species Recovery Programme
- Involves artificial incubation of GIB eggs to increase population.
- Installation of Bird Diverters
- Mandated by SC to prevent collisions with power lines.
- National Bustard Recovery Plans
- Coordinated efforts by the Government of India to conserve GIB habitat.
Conclusion
- Intersection of Justice and Climate Action
- Recognizes the need for climate-specific legislation to protect both human rights and biodiversity.
- Hope for Conservation
- Aims to ensure a future where citizens are free from climate impacts, and GIBs can thrive in their natural habitat.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2012) Q. Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species? (a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass (b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard (c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane) (d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal Ans: (a) Prelims (2020) Q. With reference to India’s Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct? 1. It is spread over two districts. 2. There is no human habitation inside the Park. 3. It is one of the natural habitats of Great Indian Bustard. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (c) |
Source: TH
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the Great Indian Bustard?
A: The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is a critically endangered bird species native to the Indian subcontinent, known for its large size and distinctive appearance.
Q: Why is the Great Indian Bustard facing extinction?
A: The Great Indian Bustard is facing extinction primarily due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by human activities such as agriculture, infrastructure development, and grazing. Climate change exacerbates these threats by altering the bird’s habitat and reducing its prey base.
Q: How does climate change impact the Great Indian Bustard?
A: Climate change affects the Great Indian Bustard by altering its habitat through changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and vegetation cover. These alterations disrupt the bird’s breeding and foraging behaviors, further exacerbating its decline.
Q: What recent verdict on climate action relates to the Great Indian Bustard?
A: The recent verdict on climate action highlights the urgent need for policies and actions to mitigate the impacts of global warming on vulnerable species like the Great Indian Bustard. It emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts and sustainable practices to protect biodiversity.
Q: What can be done to save the Great Indian Bustard in light of the climate action verdict?
A: To save the Great Indian Bustard, concerted efforts are needed, including habitat restoration, stricter conservation measures, community involvement, and policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
