Biodiversity in India

Why in News?

India, with just 2.4% of the world’s land area, supports 7-8% of all recorded species, including 45,000 plants and 91,000 animals, making it one of the world’s megadiverse countries. However, this biodiversity faces significant challenges from human activity and habitat loss.

Relevance to UPSC Exam

  • Prelims– Environment and Ecology
  • GS Paper III– Conservation, Environmental Pollution, and Degradation
  • Biodiversity Hotspots in India:
    • The Himalayas, Indo-Burma, Western Ghats-Sri Lanka, and Sundaland are among the 34 global biodiversity hotspots.

Challenges to Biodiversity Conservation

  1. Human-Wildlife Conflict:
    • Habitat loss due to urbanization, deforestation, and resource extraction brings animals into closer contact with humans.
    • Example: Birds like the Great Indian Bustard face threats from powerlines in Rajasthan.
  2. Population Pressure:
    • India’s large population and rapid growth lead to high demand for land, forest produce, and minerals, directly affecting wildlife habitats.
  3. Endangered Species:
    • India has 73 critically endangered species, including mammals like the Kashmir stag and Malabar large-spotted civet.
    • The Great Indian Bustard is critically endangered due to habitat destruction and infrastructure projects.
  4. Inequitable Attention:
    • Iconic species like tigers and lions often overshadow lesser-known endangered species, diverting conservation efforts.

Advantages of India’s Biodiversity Conservation Efforts

  • Legislative Framework:
    • The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and other laws prohibit hunting and protect wildlife habitats.
  • Unfenced Reserves:
    • Unlike fenced reserves in Africa, India’s reserves are open, allowing natural migration and ecological balance.
  • Cultural Reverence for Animals:
    • India’s traditions and religious beliefs promote tolerance and protection for wildlife.

Way Forward

  1. Strengthen Wildlife Corridors:
    • Developing and protecting wildlife corridors to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
  2. Inclusive Conservation Policies:
    • Focusing on lesser-known species like the Nicobar Shrew and Namdapha Flying Squirrel, alongside iconic species.
  3. Powerline Modifications:
    • Retrofitting powerlines to protect birds like the Great Indian Bustard.
  4. Community Participation:
    • Encouraging local communities to participate in eco-tourism and conservation efforts.
  5. Data-Driven Policies:
    • Leveraging advanced monitoring and data collection to identify and mitigate threats.
  6. Increase Protected Areas:
    • Expanding the network of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and community reserves.

Conclusion

While India’s megadiverse status is a source of pride, it brings a shared responsibility to protect endangered species. Balancing conservation with economic development is critical to ensure the survival of India’s unique wildlife. Effective policies, innovative solutions, and public participation are essential to safeguard biodiversity for future generations.

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