TALES OF HOPE & RESILIENCE
We should preserve every scrap of biodiversity as priceless while we learn to use it and come to understand what it means to humanity. – EO Wilson
According to scientists and experts, Earth is experiencing a rapid loss of species at a much higher rate than in the past. Every year, we lose both plant and animal species. The Living Planet Report, which measures the average change in population sizes of over 5,000 vertebrate species, shows a decline of 73% between 1970 and 2020 (WWF). As this trend continues, we risk disrupting ecosystems in ways that may be irreparable. This loss poses a significant threat—one that could be beyond our ability to reverse.
The question that we must ask ourselves is this: Are we willing to ignore this growing crisis and leave future generations to deal with the fallout? Or will we take action now to safeguard the biodiversity that sustains life on Earth? Let’s explore this topic further by examining some key technical terms, delving into the importance of conservation, and looking at a few real-world examples.
Here are some examples of how India’s conservation efforts are protecting its wildlife
India’s commitment to wildlife conservation has led to the recovery of several species that were once on the brink of extinction. Through legislation, wildlife protection programs, and community engagement, these species are now witnessing a resurgence, and some species that are still under threat are being protected and conserved.
[IWPA – Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, CITES – Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora].
1. ASIATIC LION
Panthera leo
Current status: Endangered
Protection: IWPA: Schedule I, CITES: Appendix II
India is the only country in the world where some of the most iconic big cat species, such as the Royal Bengal tiger and the Asiatic lion, can be found. While the tiger roams across various parts of India, the Asiatic lion has a much smaller range today, confined to the Gir Forest in Gujarat.
Historically, the Asiatic lion was widespread, from Iraq to central India. However, due to various pressures, its population in India declined due to hunting by local Maharajas, Mughals, Nawabs, and the British, along with habitat fragmentation and human-animal conflict.
In the late 19th century, the Nawab of Junagadh recognized the declining lion population after the Kathiawar Gazetteer of 1884 revealed that there were possibly only a dozen lions left in the whole of the Gir Forest. In response, the nawab took immediate action, conducting an enumeration process and discovering that only 31 (Bhanusinh, D. 2006) lions remained in the Gir region by 1893. This marked a turning point in the conservation of the Asiatic lion, as the Gir Forest became the species’ last stronghold. The Babi dynasty, led by Mahbatkhanji III, the nawab of Junagadh, played a pivotal role in the protection and conservation of the Asiatic lion. The dynasty’s leadership shifted from hunting the lions to actively protecting them, demonstrating a remarkable transition from hunters to conservationists. This transformation has since become an exemplary story of how former hunters can evolve into conservation advocates.
Following India’s independence, the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and the launch of Project Tiger significantly strengthened conservation efforts. While Project Tiger primarily focused on tigers, it also brought attention to other big cats, such as the Asiatic lion, and ensured their protection within national reserves.
Today, the Asiatic lion population in Gir National Park has risen to around 674 (Ram Mohan et al. 2023), a remarkable recovery that reflects India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and serves as an inspiring example of successful efforts.
2. GREATER ONE-HORNED RHINOCEROS
Rhinoceros unicornis
Current status: Vulnerable
Protection: IWPA: Schedule I, CITES: Appendix II
The greater one-horned rhinoceros, also known as the Indian rhinoceros, is a true symbol of India’s diverse wildlife found in the Indian subcontinent and plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem. As an umbrella species, it helps to preserve the biodiversity of the grasslands and wetlands it inhabits. Over 70% of the world’s population of greater one-horned rhinos resides in Kaziranga National Park in Assam, which is considered the species’ stronghold.
While the species is thriving today, it hasn’t always been this way. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, these rhinoceroses faced near extinction due to a growing trend of sport hunting among royals and colonial officials. British military officers and colonial administrators, particularly in Assam, were notorious for hunting these majestic creatures for sport. Reports from that time indicate that more than 200 rhinos were killed in such hunts. By 1908, only about a dozen individuals remained in Kaziranga, pushing the species to the brink of extinction.
The turning point for this species came with concerted conservation efforts. In the mid-20th century, the Indian government and various conservation organizations recognized the urgent need to protect the species. Over the years, through the relentless efforts of the forest department, local communities, and conservationists, the greater one-horned rhino has made a remarkable recovery. Anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and community involvement have contributed significantly to increasing the population, which is now estimated at 4,014 (Asian Rhino Specialist Group (AsRSG) biannual survey report, 2022) individuals.
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains the focal point for rhino conservation in India, with dedicated programs focused on protecting the habitat and monitoring the population. Additionally, ongoing efforts to raise awareness, combat poaching, and involve local communities in conservation initiatives have played a key role in safeguarding the species’ future.
3. SWAMP DEER
Rucervus duvaucelii
Current status: Vulnerable
Protection: IWPA: Schedule I, CITES: Appendix I
The barasingha, a lesser-known yet remarkable deer species in India, is distinguished by its impressive antlers, which typically feature 10 to 12 tines and, in some cases, can have even more. The name “barasingha” itself is derived from the Sanskrit words “bāra” (twelve) and “singha” (horn), referring to the numerous tines on its antlers. The term “swamp” in its common name refers to the species’ natural habitat, which includes grassy floodplains, wetlands, and forested areas near water bodies. These habitats are vital for barasingha, providing food, shelter, and space for their grazing activities.
In India, there are three distinct subspecies of Barasingha. The northern and eastern subspecies, Wetland Barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii duvacelii) and Eastern Barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii ranjitsinhii) are found in the Dudhwa and Manas Tiger Reserves, respectively, while the southern or “hard-ground” Barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii branderi) is primarily confined to the Kanha Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.
By the 1970s, the Barasingha population in Kanha had suffered a dramatic decline, plummeting to just a few individuals. This decline was due to a combination of factors, including agricultural expansion, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. However, the conservation story of the barasingha is one of hope and recovery. Dedicated conservation efforts, including breeding programs, habitat restoration, and the relocation of human settlements from critical areas, have played a crucial role in stabilizing the population. Over the years, the Kanha Tiger Reserve has become a model of wildlife conservation, with focused initiatives aimed at protecting the barasingha’s habitat and ensuring its survival. As of 2017, the population in Kanha is estimated to number around 800 individuals (Chauhan and Sukla, 2017).
In conclusion, the recovery of the barasingha population testifies to the success of focused conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of environment protection and species management for preserving biodiversity.
4. GHARIAL
Gavialis gangeticus
Current status: Critically endangered
Protection: IWPA: Schedule I, CITES: Appendix II
India is home to three species of crocodilians: the Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), the Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris), and the Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus). Each of these species occupies distinct ecological niches across the Indian subcontinent, and their conservation is crucial to maintaining the balance of the region’s freshwater and coastal ecosystems.
The gharial, with its long, slender snout, is adapted to riverine environments where it feeds primarily on fish. It is found in fragmented populations across several protected areas, including the National Chambal Sanctuary in the Chambal River, Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in the Girwa River, Corbett National Park in the Ramganga River, Son gharial Sanctuary in the Son River, Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary in the Mahanadi River, and Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary in the Ganga River. Endemic to the Indian subcontinent, the gharial once thrived across a much larger range, but today it is confined to just a few pockets of habitat.
In 1975, in response to the rapid decline of crocodilian populations, the Indian government launched ‘Project Crocodile.’ This initiative aimed to address the challenges faced by the gharial, mugger and saltwater crocodiles by implementing targeted conservation measures. Project Crocodile focused on protecting crocodilian habitats, raising awareness of their ecological importance, and combating illegal hunting and poaching. The project also established breeding centers and captive breeding units to help replenish populations.
One of the key components of the project was the establishment of the Gharial eco-park in the National Chambal Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh, which was specifically dedicated to breeding and rehabilitating gharials. The project also set up breeding facilities in other regions, such as the Nandankanan Zoo in Odisha. These breeding centers have played a significant role in the successful propagation of gharials, allowing individuals to be released back into their natural habitats.
Over the past few decades, these concerted efforts have led to a steady increase in gharial populations. However, the species is still critically endangered and continues to face threats from habitat degradation, human encroachment, and climate change, which affect river systems.
5. GANGETIC DOLPHIN
Platanista gangetica
Current status: : Endangered
Protection: Schedule I, CITES: Appendix I
The Gangetic dolphin is a flagship species and the national aquatic animal of India, found in the Ganga River basin and endemic to the Indian subcontinent. Historically, this freshwater species was distributed across the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. However, due to habitat degradation and other threats, its range has significantly diminished. Today, it is restricted to fragmented stretches of India’s Ganga-Brahmaputra-Barak river system, as well as Nepal’s Karnali, Sapta Koshi, and Narayani river systems and Bangladesh’s Meghna, Karnaphuli, and Sangu river systems.
The Gangetic dolphin plays a pivotal role in its ecosystem, serving as an indicator species for the health of its environment. Because it is sensitive to changes in water quality, the presence or absence of this species often signals significant disruptions in the aquatic ecosystem, such as pollution, disturbances in habitat or loss of prey species.
Over the years, these dolphins have faced numerous threats, primarily from human activities. Key threats include the construction of dams, reservoirs, canals, and irrigation systems, as well as water pollution, overfishing, and motorized transport.
In response to these challenges, the Indian government and conservation organisations have undertaken steps to protect not only the Gangetic dolphin but also the broader freshwater ecosystem that sustains many species. Notable conservation efforts include the Conservation Action Plan for the Gangetic Dolphin (2010-2020), the Project Dolphin initiative launched in 2019 and the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), which aim to preserve the dolphins and their habitat.
6. AMUR FALCON
Falco amurensis
Current status: Least Concern
Protection: IWPA: Schedule IV, CITES: Appendix II
The Amur Falcon is a small raptor that migrates through India each year. During its migration, it makes a brief stopover in the northeastern region of the country. This remarkable bird travels over 14,000 kilometers, breeding in East Asia and spending its winter in Southern Africa. Along its journey, the falcon takes a crucial rest stop in India and is protected under Indian wildlife laws.
In 2012, a shocking discovery was made by Conservation India and the Nagaland Wildlife & Biodiversity Conservation Trust (NWBCT) in Wokha District, Nagaland. Tens of thousands of migratory Amur falcons (Falco amurensis) were found massacred near the Doyang Reservoir. It was revealed that this mass killing had been occurring for years. Interviews with local residents and hunters indicated that the falcons had begun roosting in the area after the Doyang Reservoir was constructed in the early 2000s, providing a place for the birds to take a break during their migration. Unfortunately, the large congregation of falcons attracted hunters who were killing the birds for food and for trade
Following this revelation, the Indian government and the Nagaland Forest Department took swift action to address the issue. The Indian government immediately imposed a ban on hunting the falcons, and law enforcement stepped up in the region to protect the species. Today, the local community, once involved in hunting the birds, now actively participates in their conservation efforts, calling themselves the ‘Friends of the Amur Falcon.’ This transformation in attitude demonstrates how communities can shift from hunting to protecting wildlife. It also serves as a successful example of grassroots conservation, where the local population has become a key ally in safeguarding migratory birds. Conservation education and awareness campaigns played a significant role in changing local perceptions, and now the falcons are revered for their ecological value rather than viewed as a resource to be exploited.
The story of the Amur falcon highlights the critical role of community-driven conservation in protecting migratory species and restoring balance to ecosystems.
But why do species extinct in the first place?
WHAT ARE SPECIES ?
In biology, a species refers to a group of organisms capable of breeding and producing fertile offspring. In simpler terms, members of the same species can mate successfully, and their offspring will also be able to reproduce. It’s this ability to reproduce and sustain life that binds members of a species together.
WHAT IS EXTINCTION ?
Extinction occurs when a species no longer exists anywhere on Earth. According to the IUCN, a species is considered extinct when it is certain that the last member has died. A species is presumed extinct when thorough searches in areas where it used to live, or where it was expected to be, have found no individuals. These searches should happen at the right times of day, season, and year, covering the species’ entire historical range. The searches should also last long enough to match the species’ life habits and life-cycle. (IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria V. 3.1, p. 14).
HOW DO SPECIES BECOME EXTINCT?
The Earth has been constantly changing, with most changes occurring slowly due to natural phenomena. At times, species go extinct on a local level, or an individual species may vanish entirely for specific reasons. In other cases, mass extinctions can occur, such as the event 66 million years ago when an asteroid struck Earth, wiping out the dinosaurs and many other species.
Today, however, the situation is different. Despite the Earth’s diverse array of species, many are now facing extinction due to both natural causes and the increasing pressures from human activities. As the human population grows and expands its footprint across the world, the natural habitats of many species are becoming fragmented or destroyed. Urbanization, industrialization, deforestation, and agricultural expansion have dramatically reduced the area available for wildlife. Moreover, human-wildlife conflict, climate change, and illegal poaching further exacerbate the pressures faced by many species. These factors often cause rapid population declines, with some species experiencing drastic reductions in numbers.
WHY THE NEED FOR CONSERVATION ?
Conserving wildlife and their habitats is about more than just saving a few rare species. It is about maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems, which in turn supports the survival of all living organisms, including humans. The loss of species can have cascading effects on ecosystems. For instance, the disappearance of a pollinator species could disrupt crop production, or the loss of a predator could lead to the overpopulation of certain prey species, causing imbalances. Therefore, conservation is not only a matter of preserving wildlife but also about safeguarding the health of the planet for future generations.
Over the years, many species in India have faced numerous threats, pushing some to the brink of extinction. However, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, the country has successfully brought several of these species back from the edge and has worked diligently to mitigate the risks of further extinctions.
IUCN & CONSERVATION STRATEGIES
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) plays a critical role in monitoring and assessing the conservation status of species worldwide. Through its Red List of Threatened Species, the IUCN categorizes species based on their risk of extinction. These categories help guide conservation priorities and strategies. The major categories include:
1. Data Deficient (DD)
Species for which there is not enough data available to evaluate their risk of extinction.
2. Least Concern (LC)
Species that are stable and not at significant risk of extinction.
3. Near Threatened (NT)
Species that are on the verge of being classified as threatened.
4. Vulnerable (VU)
Species that are highly susceptible to extinction in the wild.
5. Endangered (EN)
Species facing an urgent threat of extinction in the wild.
6. Critically Endangered (CR)
Species are at an imminent and severe risk of extinction.
7. Extinct in the Wild (EW)
Species that no longer exist in the wild but may survive in captivity.
8. Extinct (EX)
Species that are no longer found anywhere on the planet.
9. Not Evaluated (NE)
Species that have not yet been assessed for their conservation status.
THE ROLE OF CONSERVATION IN PROTECTING INDIA’S SPECIES
The inspiring stories of species like the Asiatic lion, Greater one-horned rhino, Barasingha, Gharial, Gangetic dolphin, and Amur falcon demonstrate the resilience of wildlife and the powerful impact of dedicated conservation efforts. India’s commitment to protecting its biodiversity has not only helped revive species once on the brink of extinction, but also emphasizes the importance of preserving habitats and engaging local communities in conservation initiatives.
Institutes and organizations like the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), and the Wildlife Protection Society of India (WPSI), among others, have played a significant role in these efforts by contributing their expertise to protect and conserve India’s rich biodiversity.
These successes prove that, with concerted efforts, even the most vulnerable species can be brought back from the edge of extinction. However, by continuing to improve habitat protection, strengthen anti-poaching measures, engage local communities, and raise awareness, we can ensure a brighter future for these species and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Written by: Divyajit Kaur Bal
Divya currently works at Waghoba Eco Lodge, Tadoba
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