The alarming dwindling numbers of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB), a species listed as critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, are making headlines again. Recent reports note that only four female GIBs remain in Gujarat while the total Indian population is estimated to be less than 150. Seen as a flagship grassland species, the state bird of Rajasthan primarily inhabits the regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat, with smaller populations residing in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
About the Great Indian Bustard
A symbol of India’s healthy grassland ecology, the GIB is India’s most critically endangered bird. The majority of its population is restricted to Rajasthan and Gujarat, although small populations also occur in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Conservation Status
The GIB holds an alarming status of being “Critically Endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. In addition, it is listed under Appendix I of both the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS). Within India, it receives protection under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Threats to the Species
Several factors pose a relentless threat to this species. Among these are collisions or electrocution with power transmission lines, continuing hunting practices in Pakistan, and habitat loss due to widespread agricultural expansion and alteration.
Measures Undertaken for Protection
Efforts are underway to safeguard the GIB from further decline. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has initiated a species recovery programme under the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats. Additionally, national bustard recovery plans are being executed by various conservation agencies.
Conservation Breeding Facility
In a collaborative measure, the MoEFCC, Rajasthan government and Wildlife Institute of India (WII) established a conservation breeding facility in Rajasthan’s Desert National Park at Jaisalmer in June 2019. This project aims to augment the GIB population by raising a captive population and releasing chicks back into the wild.
Project Great Indian Bustard
The Rajasthan government has launched the initiative “Project Great Indian Bustard.” The objective of this project includes the construction of breeding enclosures for the species and the development of infrastructure to minimize human impact on their habitats.
Eco-Friendly Measures
A task force was created to propose eco-friendly measures that could mitigate the impacts of power transmission lines and other similar infrastructures on wildlife, including the GIB. This move recognizes the need to harmonize wildlife conservation with burgeoning infrastructural projects.
This multi-pronged approach reiterates the urgency for effective measure implementation as well as policy formation that aligns with the preservation and longevity of the GIB population.
