Daily Current Affairs : 9-November-2023
Recently, the Tamil Nadu Government issued a significant order to implement ‘Project Dolphin’ under the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat programme of the government of India. This move holds particular relevance in the context of environmental conservation, falling under GS III: Environment and Ecology.
Project Dolphin: A Boost for Marine Ecology:
- Objective: Project Dolphin has a clear aim – to enhance the marine ecology and overall health of the marine environment.
- Components: The project’s multifaceted approach involves strengthening patrolling and surveillance, habitat improvement through the restoration of coastal ecosystems, removal of ghost nets, and encouraging local community involvement with incentives.
- Budget: With a budget of 8.13 crore rupees for the fiscal year 2023-2024, the project signifies a collaborative effort, with 60% of the funding provided by the Union government and the remaining cost borne by the State.
Significance of Project Dolphin:
Project Dolphin’s significance lies in its holistic approach. It seeks to improve the population of dolphin species, protect their habitat, and enhance the livelihoods of local communities. Notably, over nine species of marine dolphins inhabit the coastal waters of Tamil Nadu, with major habitats in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.
Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat Programme:
- An ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme, the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat Programme has evolved by incorporating more components and activities during the 11th Plan Period.
- Components of the programme include support for protected areas, wildlife protection outside protected areas, and recovery programmes for critically endangered species and habitats.
Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve: A Natural Treasure:
- The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve comprises three distinct coastal ecosystems: coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves.
- Renowned for being one of the world’s richest regions in terms of marine biodiversity, it holds the distinction of being the first Marine Biosphere Reserve in South and Southeast Asia.
- Recognized by UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme, the reserve is home to globally significant and highly endangered species, including the Dugong, whale shark, sea horses, green sea turtle, dolphins, and more.
Important Points:
Project Dolphin: A Summary
- Objective: Enhancing marine ecology and overall health of the marine environment.
- Components:
- Strengthening patrolling and surveillance.
- Habitat improvement through coastal ecosystem restoration.
- Removal of ghost nets.
- Encouraging local community involvement with incentives.
- Budget: 8.13 crore rupees for 2023-2024.
- Funding: Collaborative effort with 60% from the Union government and the remaining cost borne by the State.
- Significance:
- Improving dolphin species population.
- Protecting their habitat.
- Enhancing livelihoods of local communities.
- Over nine species of marine dolphins in Tamil Nadu, with major habitats in Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.
Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat Programme: Key Points
- Nature: Ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
- Evolution: Developed during the 11th Plan Period.
- Components:
- Support for protected areas (national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation reserves, and community reserves).
- Wildlife protection outside protected areas.
- Recovery programmes for critically endangered species and habitats.
Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve: Highlights
- Ecosystems: Comprises coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves.
- Biodiversity: One of the world’s richest regions in marine biodiversity.
- Recognition: First Marine Biosphere Reserve in South and Southeast Asia.
- UNESCO: Recognized by UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme.
- Species: Home to globally significant and highly endangered species, including Dugong, whale shark, sea horses, green sea turtle, dolphins, and more.
Why In News
Recently, the Tamil Nadu Government issued an order to implement ‘Project Dolphin’ under the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat programme of the government of India, signaling a significant commitment to the conservation of aquatic biodiversity and the protection of the endangered Gangetic dolphins in the region.
MCQs about Project Dolphin and Habitat Conservation Initiatives
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What is the primary objective of ‘Project Dolphin’ in Tamil Nadu?
A. Enhancing terrestrial ecosystems
B. Strengthening patrolling and surveillance
C. Promoting agriculture in coastal areas
D. Supporting urban development projects
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What components are included in the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat Programme?
A. Support for industrial development
B. Recovery programmes for urban habitats
C. Wildlife protection outside protected areas
D. Funding for agricultural expansion
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What makes the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve unique among marine reserves?
A. It is the largest marine reserve in the world
B. It focuses exclusively on protecting coral reefs
C. It is the first Marine Biosphere Reserve in South and Southeast Asia
D. It is primarily a fishing reserve
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