Threats to the Great Indian Bustard

"In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught." - Baba Dioum

How to strike a balance between human development and the preservation of our natural world? The Great Indian Bustard, a majestic bird teetering on the edge of extinction, stands as a testament to the delicate equilibrium we must maintain. As we delve into the realm of threats faced by the Great Indian Bustard and the ongoing conservation efforts to safeguard its future, we are confronted with a profound dilemma – how do we harmonize the needs of a growing society with the imperative to protect and nurture our biodiversity? In this article, we will explore the intricate interplay between human progress and the protection of our biodiversity, drawing on the experiences and insights of conservationists, policymakers, and scientists. Let's examine the challenges and triumphs in the quest to secure the survival of this iconic species and shed light on the profound implications of our actions on the fragile ecosystems that sustain life on our planet.

The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is a large bird native to the Indian subcontinent, known for being one of the heaviest flying birds globally. It stands out for its distinctive appearance, with a brownish-grey body, long neck, and a crown of black feathers on its head. This critically endangered species once inhabited various regions across India and Pakistan but is now primarily found in central and western India, particularly in states like Rajasthan and Gujarat. The Great Indian Bustard faces severe threats such as habitat loss, hunting, and collisions with power lines, leading to a rapid decline in its population. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve this iconic bird species and its unique habitat.

Current Population

The current population of Great Indian Bustards by March 2024 is estimated to be around 125 individuals, with the bird facing a critical threat of extinction due to various factors like collisions with high transmission power lines, habitat loss, industrialization, mining, and other anthropogenic disturbances. The trend in the population of Great Indian Bustards over the past decade indicates a significant decline. This decline in population is a cause for concern, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this critically endangered species from the brink of extinction.

Roles of Great Indian Bustard

Great Indian Bustard is significant in the ecosystem as it serves as an indicator species for the health of grasslands.

These majestic birds play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of grassland ecosystems by controlling insect populations, dispersing seeds, and contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.
Additionally, the Great Indian Bustard holds cultural and ecological importance, representing the unique biodiversity of the Indian subcontinent.
Despite their declining population, efforts to protect and conserve the Great Indian Bustard are essential not only for the survival of this iconic species but also for the preservation of the delicate grassland habitats they inhabit.

Factors affecting to the survival of the Great Indian Bustard

The main threats to the survival of the Great Indian Bustard are multifaceted and include habitat loss, hunting, poaching, and collisions with power lines. These threats have significantly contributed to the critical endangerment of this iconic bird species.

Habitat Loss: The Great Indian Bustard has faced extensive habitat loss due to factors such as industrialization, mining activities, and intensive agricultural practices. The alteration and fragmentation of its natural grassland habitats have severely impacted the bird's ability to find suitable breeding grounds and forage for food.
Hunting and Poaching: Historically, the Great Indian Bustard has been hunted for its meat and sport, leading to a significant decline in its population. Despite legal protections in place, poaching continues to pose a threat to the remaining individuals, especially in regions where enforcement of wildlife protection laws is lacking.
Collisions with Power Lines: The Great Indian Bustard faces a unique threat from collisions with power lines. Due to their large size, limited frontal vision, and heavy flying nature, these birds are unable to detect power lines from a distance and often collide with them, leading to fatal injuries. This threat is exacerbated by the rapid expansion of power infrastructure in their habitats.
Uncontrolled Grazing of Livestock: Uncontrolled grazing of livestock in the bustard's habitat can disturb their breeding activities and foraging patterns. This disruption to their natural behavior can further exacerbate the challenges faced by the already dwindling population.
Grazing cows: This affect the habitat of the Great Indian Bustard by trampling their eggs, posing a significant threat to their reproduction. This impact from grazing cows can lead to a decline in the population of the Great Indian Bustard due to the destruction of their nests and eggs, hindering their breeding success and survival

Efforts to address these threats include conservation breeding programs, habitat protection measures, and advocacy for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws. Collaborative initiatives involving governments, conservation organizations, and local communities are crucial in safeguarding the Great Indian Bustard and ensuring the long-term survival of this critically endangered species.

Conservation Efforts to Protect the Great Indian Bustard

Efforts to safeguard the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard involve a range of conservation measures aimed at mitigating the threats faced by this iconic bird species. Here are some key conservation initiatives:

Legal Protection: The Great Indian Bustard is granted the highest level of legal protection from hunting as it is included in Schedule-I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. This legal safeguard aims to prevent hunting and poaching activities that pose a significant threat to the bird's survival.
Habitat Designation: Important habitats of the Great Indian Bustard are designated as National Parks or sanctuaries to ensure their safeguarding. This designation helps in preserving critical areas where the bird breeds and forages, contributing to the protection of its habitat.
Conservation Breeding Programs: Collaborative conservation breeding programs have been established in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra with the support of the Wildlife Institute of India. These programs aim to create a captive population of Great Indian Bustards for eventual release into the wild, thereby bolstering the dwindling population.
In-situ Conservation Plans: The Government of Rajasthan has proposed an in-situ conservation plan for the Great Indian Bustard, which requires approval from the State Board for Wild Life. This plan focuses on protecting the bird within its natural habitat and involves various conservation strategies to ensure its survival.
Community Conservation: Community involvement plays a crucial role in the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard. Initiatives like working with local communities and the State Forest Department help in changing perceptions, developing positive relationships, and enabling better management of grasslands essential for both communities and the bustards.

These conservation efforts, coupled with ongoing research, monitoring, and awareness-raising activities, are vital in the collective endeavor to protect and preserve the Great Indian Bustard, ensuring its survival for future generations.

Challenges in Protecting the Great Indian Bustard Population:

The conservation of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard faces several challenges that hinder efforts to safeguard this iconic bird species. Here are the key challenges faced in protecting the Great Indian Bustard population:

Habitat Loss and Degradation: The extensive loss and degradation of the bustard's natural grassland habitats due to factors like industrialization, mining activities, and agricultural encroachment pose a significant threat to the survival of the species. The transformation of their habitats into sugarcane fields, cotton fields, or grape orchards has led to a decline in suitable breeding and foraging grounds for the bustards.
Collisions with Power Lines: The Great Indian Bustard is particularly vulnerable to collisions with high transmission power lines, especially in regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan. The lack of visibility of these power lines for the birds, combined with their heavy flying nature, results in fatal collisions that contribute to the decline in the population.
Poaching and Hunting: Despite legal protections in place, poaching and hunting activities continue to pose a threat to the Great Indian Bustard population. The illegal killing of these birds for meat and sport further exacerbates the challenges faced in protecting the species.
Lack of Community Involvement: Inadequate community engagement and lack of local support for conservation efforts have hindered the effective protection of the Great Indian Bustard. Building positive relationships with local communities and garnering their active participation in conservation initiatives are crucial for the long-term survival of the species.
Inadequate Conservation Strategies: Previous conservation efforts, including captive breeding programs, have faced challenges due to poor planning, lack of scientific expertise, and limited cooperation between states. Developing effective conservation strategies that address the specific needs of the Great Indian Bustard and involve scientific expertise is essential for successful protection of the species.

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that integrates habitat protection, community engagement, scientific research, and stringent enforcement of wildlife protection laws. Collaborative efforts involving governments, conservation organizations, local communities, and international experts are vital in overcoming these obstacles and ensuring the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard for future generations.

Project Great Indian Bustard (GIB)

Project Great Indian Bustard (GIB) is a significant conservation initiative aimed at protecting the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB), a majestic bird species facing the threat of extinction. This project, inspired by the success of 'Project Tiger,' focuses on implementing strategic measures to safeguard the remaining population of GIBs and their habitats. Here is a detailed description of Project Great Indian Bustard:

Overview:

Objective: The primary goal of Project GIB is to prevent the extinction of the Great Indian Bustard by addressing the various threats faced by the species, including habitat loss, hunting, collisions with power lines, and other human-induced factors.
Initiation: Launched in response to the dwindling population of GIBs, Project GIB was established to coordinate conservation efforts and mobilize resources to protect this iconic bird species.

Key Components:

Habitat Protection: Project GIB focuses on securing critical GIB habitats by engaging with stakeholders and creating community-led conservation models. This includes measures to mitigate the impact of infrastructural development on GIB habitats.
Community Involvement: The project emphasizes the involvement of local communities, NGOs, and government agencies to create awareness, build support, and establish sustainable conservation practices that benefit both the GIBs and the communities living in their vicinity.
Conservation Breeding: A vital aspect of Project GIB is the establishment of conservation breeding facilities to increase the GIB population. These facilities aim to breed GIBs in captivity and release them into the wild to bolster the existing population.
Mitigation of Threats: Project GIB addresses various threats to GIBs, such as collisions with power lines, hunting, habitat loss, and alteration. It implements measures like installing bird diverters on power lines and strengthening protection and monitoring of GIB habitats.
Partnerships: The project involves collaborations with organizations like the Rajasthan Forest Department, Wildlife Institute of India (WII), and Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) to leverage expertise, resources, and support for the conservation of GIBs.

Impact and Future Prospects:

Project GIB has the potential to make a significant impact on the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard by implementing targeted conservation strategies, engaging local communities, and addressing key threats to the species.
Through ongoing efforts and partnerships, Project GIB aims to not only protect the GIB population but also restore and sustain healthy habitats for the long-term survival of this critically endangered bird species.

Project Great Indian Bustard exemplifies a collaborative and comprehensive approach to conservation, highlighting the importance of concerted efforts to protect and preserve India's rich biodiversity.

Measures to Increase Awareness and Support from Local Communities for the Conservation of the Great Indian Bustard:

Increasing awareness and garnering support from local communities are crucial aspects of successful conservation efforts for the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. Here are the measures taken to enhance awareness and community involvement in the conservation of this iconic bird species:

Community Engagement Programs: Implementing community engagement programs that involve local residents, schools, and community leaders in conservation activities can raise awareness about the importance of protecting the Great Indian Bustard. These programs can include workshops, awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives to highlight the significance of the bird and its habitat.
Capacity Building Workshops: Conducting capacity building workshops for local communities to enhance their understanding of the threats faced by the Great Indian Bustard and the role they can play in its conservation. These workshops can focus on sustainable land use practices, habitat protection, and the importance of biodiversity conservation.
Involving Local Leaders: Engaging local leaders and influencers in conservation efforts can help amplify awareness and support within the community. By collaborating with respected community members, conservation organizations can leverage their influence to promote conservation messages and encourage active participation in protecting the Great Indian Bustard.
Creating Conservation Incentives: Establishing conservation incentives for local communities, such as eco-tourism initiatives, sustainable livelihood programs, or benefits from conservation projects, can motivate community members to actively participate in protecting the Great Indian Bustard and its habitat.
Promoting Traditional Ecological Knowledge: Recognizing and promoting traditional ecological knowledge held by local communities about the Great Indian Bustard and its habitat can foster a sense of ownership and stewardship among community members. Integrating traditional practices with modern conservation strategies can enhance the effectiveness of conservation efforts.

By implementing these measures and fostering strong partnerships with local communities, conservation organizations can enhance awareness, build support, and empower communities to actively contribute to the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard, ensuring its survival for future generations.

Organizations Working to Protect the Great Indian Bustard:

Several organizations are actively working to protect the Great Indian Bustard, including WWF India, the Indian government through initiatives like Project Bustard, the Wildlife Institute of India, and conservationists like Ramki Sreenivasan and Abi Tamim Vanak who are advocating for the conservation of this critically endangered. These organizations play a crucial role in implementing conservation strategies, conducting research, and raising awareness to safeguard this iconic bird species. Here are some key organizations working to protect the Great Indian Bustard:

Wildlife Institute of India: The Wildlife Institute of India is actively involved in collaborative conservation breeding programs for the Great Indian Bustard. They work towards creating a captive population of the bustards for eventual release into the wild, aiming to bolster the dwindling population of this critically endangered species.
The Corbett Foundation: The Corbett Foundation is engaged in conservation initiatives focused on protecting the Great Indian Bustard and its habitat. They collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies and local communities, to implement conservation measures and raise awareness about the importance of preserving this iconic bird species.
Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS): The Bombay Natural History Society has been conducting extensive studies on the Great Indian Bustard and other endangered bird species. They recommend conservation measures and advocate for the protection of bustard habitats, emphasizing the need for community involvement and sustainable land use practices.
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN): The IUCN plays a significant role in assessing the conservation status of species, including the Great Indian Bustard. They provide guidelines and recommendations for conservation actions, advocate for habitat protection, and collaborate with governments and conservation organizations to prevent the extinction of endangered species like the Great Indian Bustard.
The Hindu: While not an organization dedicated solely to conservation, The Hindu is a reputable news source that reports on conservation efforts and challenges faced by the Great Indian Bustard. Their coverage helps raise awareness about the plight of the bustard and the need for concerted conservation actions.

These organizations, along with governmental bodies, local communities, and international stakeholders, work together to protect the Great Indian Bustard and ensure the long-term survival of this critically endangered bird species.

Role of the government in protecting the great Indian bustard

The role of the government and legal protections for the Great Indian Bustard are crucial aspects of conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding this critically endangered bird species. Here is a detailed overview based on the provided sources:

Role of Government:

Conservation Initiatives: The Government of India has taken significant steps to protect the Great Indian Bustard, including the identification of critical habitats, establishment of conservation breeding centers, and financial support for conservation programs.
Legal Protection: The government has granted the Great Indian Bustard the highest level of legal protection under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, by including it in Schedule-I. This protection prohibits hunting and ensures the safeguarding of important habitats through the designation of National Parks or sanctuaries.

Legal Protections:

Schedule-I Listing: The Great Indian Bustard's inclusion in Schedule-I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, provides the species with the highest degree of legal protection against hunting and other forms of exploitation.
Species Recovery Programme: The species has been identified for conservation efforts under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS)-Development of Wildlife Habitat, which provides financial and technical assistance to State and Union Territory Governments for the protection of the Great Indian Bustard and its habitat.
Conservation Breeding: The government, in collaboration with various stakeholders and organizations like the Wildlife Institute of India, has initiated conservation breeding programs to create a captive population of Great Indian Bustards for eventual release into the wild, aiming to increase the species' population and promote in-situ conservation.

Supreme Court Intervention:

The Supreme Court has played a significant role in advocating for the protection of the Great Indian Bustard, issuing directives to mitigate threats posed by overhead power lines in critical GIB habitats.
The court's orders have emphasized the need to make all electricity lines passing through GIB territories underground to prevent collisions and fatalities, highlighting the importance of adhering to conservation measures to safeguard the endangered species.
The combined efforts of the government, legal protections, and interventions by the Supreme Court underscore the commitment to conserving the Great Indian Bustard and ensuring the survival of this iconic bird species for future generations.

Conclusion

The conservation efforts for the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB) represent a collaborative and multi-faceted approach involving the government, conservation organizations, local communities, and international experts. The initiatives undertaken to safeguard the GIB are comprehensive and aim to address the various threats faced by this iconic bird species. Here is a detailed conclusion for an article on protecting the Great Indian Bustard:

Government Commitment: The Government of India has demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting the GIB through various measures such as establishing conservation breeding centers, providing legal protection under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, and designating critical habitats as National Parks/Sanctuaries.
Conservation Breeding: The initiation of conservation breeding programs, including the establishment of a 'Conservation Breeding Center' in Rajasthan and a satellite breeding facility in Jaisalmer, highlights the government's proactive approach to increasing the GIB population.
Community Engagement: Involving local communities in conservation activities and creating community leaders to spearhead conservation efforts play a vital role in ensuring the long-term survival of the GIB and its habitat.
Scientific Research: Incorporating scientific research, such as GPS tracking and satellite tagging, is crucial for understanding the behavior and movement patterns of the GIB, essential for effective conservation strategies.
International Collaboration: Collaboration with international experts and organizations, as seen in the partnership with the International Fund for Houbara Conservation and Reneco, Abu Dhabi, underscores the global significance of protecting the GIB.
Mitigating Threats: Addressing threats like power line collisions through the installation of bird diverters and creating eco-friendly measures to reduce the impact of power transmission lines on wildlife are essential steps in protecting the GIB.
Future Prospects: Despite the challenges faced by the GIB, the ongoing conservation efforts offer hope for the species' survival and recovery. Continued monitoring, habitat protection, and community involvement are key to ensuring the GIB's long-term conservation.

In conclusion, the combined efforts of the government, conservation organizations, local communities, and international partners are crucial for the successful protection and conservation of the Great Indian Bustard. By implementing a holistic approach that addresses threats, engages stakeholders, and promotes habitat conservation, there is a tangible opportunity to secure the future of this critically endangered bird species in India.

. . .

Discus