Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced nine significant decisions to enhance India’s wildlife conservation efforts. These include setting up a National Referral Centre for Wildlife in Junagadh, conducting the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation in 2025, establishing a Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict, and introducing cheetahs to Gandhisagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh and Banni Grasslands in Gujarat.
First Riverine Dolphin Estimation Conducted
PM Modi released India’s first-ever riverine dolphin estimation report, which found 6,327 dolphins across 28 rivers in eight states. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest numbers, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam.
Strengthening Asiatic Lion Conservation
PM Modi announced that Barda Wildlife Sanctuary will be supported with prey augmentation and habitat improvement measures to sustain its natural lion population. The 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation will be carried out in 2025.
Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict
To tackle human-wildlife conflicts, the Wildlife Institute of India in Coimbatore will establish a Centre of Excellence, equipping Rapid Response Teams with advanced technology for tracking, forewarning, and surveillance.
Use of AI and Space Technology for Wildlife Management
PM Modi emphasized Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Geospatial Mapping for forest fire prevention and human-animal conflict management. He proposed a collaboration between the Wildlife Institute of India and Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications (BISAG-N) to improve monitoring.
Expansion of Cheetah Reintroduction and New Conservation Projects
PM Modi announced the expansion of the Cheetah Project to Gandhisagar Sanctuary (MP) and Banni Grasslands (Gujarat). He also launched a National Great Indian Bustard Conservation Action Plan and a new Gharial Conservation Project to protect endangered species.
Task Forces for Wildlife Conservation
To enhance conservation strategies, PM Modi directed the formation of task forces for the Indian Sloth Bear, Gharial, and Great Indian Bustard. He also emphasized the importance of traditional knowledge in wildlife conservation.
