The Great Indian Bustard (GIB) is one of the heaviest flying birds endemic to the Indian subcontinent. It is the state bird of Rajasthan and is found in arid grasslands in various states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The species is listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List and is also included in Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The Environment Ministry has taken various measures to protect and conserve this species. Some of the most important steps taken in this regard are as follows:
Legal protection
The Great Indian Bustard has been listed in Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which provides legal protection to the species. This means that hunting, poaching, or any other kind of exploitation of the bird is prohibited by law.
Protected habitats
Important habitats of the Great Indian Bustards have been designated as National Parks and sanctuaries. These areas are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act and provide a safe environment for the birds to thrive.
Conservation breeding centers
Sites for the establishment of conservation breeding centers for the Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican birds have been identified in consultation with the Forest Departments of Rajasthan and Gujarat. These centers will focus on breeding and releasing these birds back into the wild to increase their population.
In-situ conservation proposal
The Rajasthan government has proposed an in-situ conservation plan for the Great Indian Bustard. This plan involves identifying areas of high population density and providing them with additional protection and resources to ensure their survival.
Initiatives
Project Great Indian Bustard (Rajasthan State) The Rajasthan government has launched Project Great Indian Bustard to conserve the species. The project aims to identify and conserve important habitats of the bird, monitor its population, and develop strategies to protect it from threats such as habitat loss and hunting.
Habitat improvement and conservation breeding Efforts are being made to improve the habitats of the Great Indian Bustard by reducing human interference and restoring grasslands. Additionally, conservation breeding centers are being established to increase the population of the bird.
Threats to the Bird
Despite these conservation efforts, the Great Indian Bustard still faces several threats. Some of the most significant threats to the bird include hunting, intensification of agriculture, and power lines. These threats are being addressed through a combination of legal protection, habitat conservation, and awareness campaigns.
Why In News
The Environment Ministry has implemented a number of measures aimed at conserving and protecting the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. These efforts have been focused on establishing protected habitats, legal protection, and conservation breeding programs to ensure the survival of this iconic bird species.
MCQs on Measures for the Conservation of the Great Indian Bustard
-
The Great Indian Bustard is listed in which Schedule of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972?
A. Schedule-I
B. Schedule-II
C. Schedule-III
D. Schedule-IV
-
Which state in India has the maximum number of Great Indian Bustards?
A. Gujarat
B. Maharashtra
C. Rajasthan
D. Karnataka
-
What is the IUCN status of the Great Indian Bustard?
A. Vulnerable
B. Endangered
C. Critically endangered
D. Extinct in the wild
-
What is the purpose of establishing conservation breeding centers for the Great Indian Bustard?
A. To provide a safe environment for the birds to thrive.
B. To reduce human interference in their habitats.
C. To increase their population.
D. To monitor their population.
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
