Great Indian Bustard in focus: Why is this flagship species relevant for UPSC Exam?
(Relevance: UPSC has previously asked questions on various species. Therefore, it is essential to keep a tab on species in the news, as their chances of being asked in the examination increase. The Great Indian Bustard (GIB) is one such species that holds great significance. Hence, knowing its characteristics and conservation status becomes important.)
Giving relief to renewable energy companies from blanket restrictions on existing overhead power lines in habitats of the Great Indian Bustard, a Supreme Court appointed expert committee has proposed designated 'power corridors' for transmission lines in Gujarat and Rajasthan, The Indian Express has learnt. In this context, let's learn about the GIB and the expert committee's recommendations.
4. GIBs' historic range included much of the Indian sub-continent but it has now shrunken to just 10 per cent of it. Due to the species' smaller population size, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has categorised GIBs as critically endangered, thus on the brink of extinction from the wild.
♦ IUCN Red List status of Great Indian Bustard: Critically Endangered
♦ Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
♦ Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS): Appendix I
♦ Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES): Appendix 1
The Great Indian Bustard is the state bird of Rajasthan. Notably, Rajasthan has the largest remaining population of the GIBs.
1. The first steps to address the decline of the bustard population were taken between 2012-2013, when the Rajasthan government as well as the Environment Ministry began a long-term Bustard and Lesser Florican recovery project. The recovery project firmed up more in the year 2016 when it received a funding outlay of Rs 33.85 crore for seven years. This money was sanctioned to improve the bird's habitat and start a conservation breeding program.
2. The Compensatory Afforestation Fund, which consists of money collected for afforestation in lieu of diversion of forests for non-forest uses, funded this project. Later, in July 2018, a tripartite agreement was signed between the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Rajasthan Forest Department and Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
3. This involved opening long-term conservation breeding centres (CBC) in Ramdevra and Sorsan, implementing field research projects such as telemetry-based bird tracking and population surveys, habitat management as well as outreach to local communities.
4. While the total length of the next phase of the GIB and Lesser Florican conservation is 2024-2033, the immediate next phase will run till 2029. The target of the project would be to complete the upgradation of the CBC at Ramdevra and development of the Lesser Florican CBC at Sorsan, both in Rajasthan. The Ramdevra facility would also include a new lab for artificial insemination, which the WII plans to use from 2026 onwards.
1. In March 2024, a Supreme Court bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud had recalled a 2021 Supreme Court order that required all power lines in GIB habitats to be buried underground, following concerns about the technical and economic feasibility of such a move. It then tasked the expert committee with prescribing measures to mitigate GIB deaths from power lines while balancing conservation goals with mushrooming renewable energy development in these two states.
2. The committee has revised the boundaries of GIB conservation zones. In Rajasthan and Gujarat, it has proposed a 'revised priority area' of 14,013 sq km (up from 13,163 sq km) and 740 sq km (up from 500 sq km), respectively. These priority areas are meant for focused conservation and protection of the GIB.
3. The corridors proposed by the seven-member committee will be 5 km wide in Rajasthan and between 1 and 2 km wide across two separate zones in Gujarat. One member of the committee, however, is learnt to have submitted a dissent note, raising objections to exempting several power lines from mitigation.
4. The committee has proposed a set of mitigation measures and restrictions based on zonal priorities:
* Existing power lines in Bustard habitats to be dealt with based on voltage.
* Immediate burying of certain lines identified by the Supreme Court in key GIB habitats.
* Lines of 220 kV and above be assessed individually for possible mitigation.
* No restrictions on laying new power lines outside the priority areas.
5. Among key conservation measures suggested is using the 'jump start' method to revive Gujarat's GIB population. This will involve using eggs in advanced stages from conservation breeding facilities in Rajasthan, which will be incubated by wild GIB females. Tagging of the remaining Gujarat GIBs has also been recommended.
1. After knowing the significance of conservation of GIB, it's important to note that today (July 28) marks World Nature Conservation Day. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving and conserving natural resources and the environment. The day serves as a reminder of the need to protect and sustainably manage the Earth's ecosystems and biodiversity for the well-being of current and future generations.
2. This year, the theme for World Nature Conservation Day 2025 is 'Connecting People and Plants: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.'
With reference to the Great Indian Bustard (GIB), consider the following statements:
1. It is a large bird found only in India.
2. It is known to be a key indicator species of the grassland habitat.
3. It is classified as vulnerable.
4. The population of GIB has steadily increased in the past four decades.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
(Sources: Exclusive: SC-named panel proposes 'power corridors' through Great Indian Bustard habitats, Critically endangered Great Indian Bustards' recovery program, and what lies ahead, The Great Indian Bustards of Kutch)
Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – Indian Express UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨
Roshni Yadav is a Deputy Copy Editor with The Indian Express. She is an alumna of the University of Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University, where she pursued her graduation and post-graduation in Political Science. She has over five years of work experience in ed-tech and media. At The Indian Express, she writes for the UPSC section. Her interests lie in national and international affairs, governance, economy, and social issues. You can contact her via email: roshni.yadav@indianexpress.com ... Read More
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
2 hours ago
- Indian Express
Daily subject-wise quiz : Environment and Geography MCQs on Zojila tunnel, endemic species to the Brahmaputra floodplain and more (Week 121)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today's subject quiz on Environment and Geography to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at With reference to the Great Indian Bustard (GIB), consider the following statements: 1. It is known to be a key indicator species of the grassland habitat. 2. It is classified as vulnerable. 3. The seven-member committee was set up to suggest steps for the conservation of the critically endangered bird while balancing it with the growth of renewable energy infrastructure in its habitat. 4. Its population has increased over the past period. How many of the statements given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Explanation — A committee appointed by the Supreme Court has proposed dedicated corridors for renewable power lines in Rajasthan and Gujarat in order to protect the Great Indian Bustard (GIB). The committee has suggested that existing lines should be rerouted, and some stretches should be sent underground. — The seven-member committee was set up in March 2024 to suggest steps for the conservation of the critically endangered bird while balancing it with the growth of renewable energy infrastructure in its habitat. Hence, statement 3 is correct. — GIBs are a critically endangered species. Hence, statement 2 is not correct. — It is recognised as a vital indicator species of the grassland habitat, which means that its survival indicates the health of grassland ecosystems. Hence, statement 1 is correct. — According to the Rajasthan Forest Department, its population has steadily fallen over the last four decades, from over 700 individuals to less than 150 presently. Hence, statement 4 is not correct. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. With reference to Kaziranga, consider the following statements: 1. Kaziranga Tiger Reserve has the highest density of tigers in the world. 2. The first-ever grassland bird census was held in Kaziranga National Park. 3. It is inhabited by the world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses. 4. It was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2021. How many of the statements given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Explanation — The Kaziranga Tiger Reserve has the world's third-highest tiger density, according to the first large-scale survey of the big cat population. Officials estimate that the reserve has 18.65 tigers per 100 square km. Hence, statement 1 is not correct. — The first grassland bird census was conducted at Assam's Kaziranga National Park. Hence, statement 2 is correct. — Kaziranga National Park is one of the last unaltered natural places in India's northeast. — The variations of the Brahmaputra River create stunning examples of riverine and fluvial processes in this huge area of wet alluvial tall grassland, intermingled with several broad shallow lakes bordered with reeds and patches of deciduous to semi-evergreen woods. — Kaziranga National Park was included to the World Heritage List in 1985 because of its enormous population of one-horned rhinos, tigers, elephants, panthers, bears, and many birds, as well as its portrayal of the Brahmaputra floodplain and grassland ecology that has not been altered by humans. Hence, statement 4 is not correct. — It is home to the world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceros. Hence, statement 3 is correct. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. (Other Source: With reference to mercury, consider the following statements: 1. Its consumption can result in a variety of brain, skin, and heart disorders. 2. There is no mercury contamination in groundwater in India. 3. It is produced through a variety of industrial processes. How many of the statements given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Explanation — Mercury is one of the most toxic substances for humans. Its consumption can result in a variety of brain, skin, and heart disorders, and can even be fatal. Hence, statement 1 is correct. — In a paper published last year, the Central Pollution Control Board stated that 1 gramme of mercury found in a clinical thermometer was enough to contaminate a water body with a surface area of nearly 20 acres to the point where the fish in it would be unsafe to eat. — Mercury is produced naturally, such as in volcanic eruptions, as well as through a variety of industrial processes. Hence, statement 3 is correct. — Mercury contamination is not widespread in India, but it has been found in dangerous concentrations in water in states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Haryana, and Odisha. Water bodies are prone to contamination in mining areas and near leather industries, which emit mercury. Hence, statement 2 is not correct. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. Zojila tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir will provide an all-weather connectivity between: (a) Jammu and Srinagar (b) Keylong and Leh (c) Jammu and Leh (d) Srinagar and Ladakh Explanation — Zojila tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir will provide an all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh. Strategically located at an altitude of 11,578 feet, the road project is being constructed in the challenging Himalayan terrain. — On completion, the project will not only play an important role in the country's infrastructure development but also enhance civilian and military mobility in the region. This under-construction project is set to become India's longest road tunnel and Asia's longest bi-directional tunnel. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. Which of the species are endemic to the Brahmaputra floodplain? 1. Bengal Florican 2. Swamp Francolin 3. Bristled Grassbird 4. Slender-billed Babbler Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Explanation — In his Mann ki Baat radio programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted a 'first-ever grassland bird census' in Assam's Kaziranga National Park and the technology used for this. — It all started when Chiranjib Bora, a PhD student studying the threatened grassland bird Black-breasted parrotbill, obtained an INSPIRE scholarship from the central government's Department of Science & Technology, as well as acoustic monitoring gear for his research. A team of forest officials, scientists, and environmentalists conducted a census of Kaziranga National Park's grassland bird population from March 18 to May 25. — The primary purpose was to monitor the grassland bird species that inhabit in Kaziranga. The majority of grassland bird species are no longer common. Unlike wetland birds, these birds are small and well-camouflaged, making them difficult to identify. Furthermore, they dwell in unique ecosystems that are fast disappearing. — The survey prioritised 10 species that are either globally threatened or endemic to the Brahmaputra floodplains: Bengal Florican, Swamp Francolin, Finn's Weaver, Swamp Grass Babbler, Jerdon's Babbler, Slender-billed Babbler, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Marsh Babbler, Bristled Grassbird, and Indian Grassbird. Including these, it recorded a total of 43 grassland bird species, including 1 Critically Endangered, 2 Endangered, and 6 Vulnerable species, according to the IUCN Red List. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. With reference to India's first private test facility for heavy water upgradation, consider the following statements: 1. It has been set up by a private company under technology transfer from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). 2. The facility will manufacture and test equipment such as distillation columns needed for heavy water purification. 3. The main purpose is to convert normal water (H₂O) into heavy water (D₂O) for use in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). 4. It aims to reduce the equipment testing time by at least one to two years. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) All of the above Explanation — Mumbai‑based TEMA India has been entrusted with setting up this test facility under a technology transfer arrangement from the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), formally commissioned under an order from NPCIL . — The facility manufactures and tests key equipment (such as distillation columns and modules) used in the upgrading (re-purification) of depleted heavy water (D₂O), including integration and validation before delivery to reactor sites . — The facility does not produce new heavy water from ordinary water. Rather, it upgrades or re-purifies existing, depleted heavy water back to operational purity levels (~99.9% D₂O). So it's not about converting H₂O into D₂O, but restoring purity to D₂O . — Previously, BARC handled equipment testing, and the entire process—from production to test—took around 7–8 years. TEMA India states that it can cut this duration by at least 1–2 years by integrating manufacturing and testing under one roof . Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Which of the following countries is not listed as a member of the 'Mangrove Alliance for Climate'? (a) India (b) Japan (c) United Kingdom (d) United States of America Explanation According to — 'Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC), spearheaded by the United Arab Emirates in partnership with Indonesia, will promote mangroves as a nature-based solution to climate change. The MAC was launched at COP27.' — No, USA is not a listed member. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. With reference to the Etalin Hydel Project, recently seen in news, consider the following statements: 1. It is a run-of-the-river project located in Arunachal Pradesh. 2. It is being built on the Subansiri and Lohit rivers. 3. Area is part of a biodiversity hotspot with rare and endangered fauna like Mishmi takin, red panda, clouded leopard, snow leopard, and many bird species. Which of the following statements is/are true? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Explanation — A 3,097 MW hydroelectric project located in the Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh is promoted by Etalin Hydro Electric Power Company Ltd., a joint venture of Jindal Power Ltd. And the Arunachal Pradesh government. — It is Planned on two tributaries of the Dibang river: the Dri and the Talo (Tangon) rivers. — It is designed as a run-of-the-river project involving two concrete gravity dams and a network of tunnels and powerhouse units. — It requires diversion of 1,165.66 hectares of forest land. — It is estimated to result in the felling of approximately 2.7 lakh trees. — The area is part of a biodiversity hotspot, rich in: 680+ plant species with rare and endangered fauna like Mishmi takin, red panda, clouded leopard, snow leopard, and many bird species. — The project falls in the Dibang Valley, part of the Eastern Himalayas — one of India's most ecologically sensitive zones. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. Daily Subject-wise quiz — History, Culture, and Social Issues (Week 119) Daily subject-wise quiz — Polity and Governance (Week 121) Daily subject-wise quiz — Science and Technology (Week 121) Daily subject-wise quiz — Economy (Week 121) Daily subject-wise quiz — Environment and Geography (Week 120) Daily subject-wise quiz – International Relations (Week 120) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Six water buffaloes die from ‘lightning strike' in Kaziranga
1 2 Guwahati: Carcasses of six wild water buffaloes were found at Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, with preliminary investigation revealing lightning strike as the likely cause of death. The buffaloes — four females and two males — were discovered on Wednesday evening at Mona Beel, under the Kaziranga Range at Kohora in Golaghat district, during routine patrolling near the Mona Tongi area by forest staff. Sonali Ghosh, the park director, said the buffaloes were found lying close to one another, suggesting a sudden and collective fatal event. Following the discovery, the forest department formed a committee of wildlife experts and veterinarians to investigate the cause of death and conduct autopsies. "Based on the positioning of the carcasses, the health of the animals, and preliminary post-mortem findings, the cause of death is likely to be lightning-induced," Ghosh added. She said samples and data were collected for detailed analysis to confirm the exact reason behind the deaths. The forest department is closely monitoring the situation and has instructed field staff to remain vigilant, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season, when natural threats like lightning strikes tend to increase. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Hi Tabbola Undo The wild water buffalo is listed as an "endangered" species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, making each loss a matter of significant concern. Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, a Unesco World Heritage site, is one of the last remaining habitats for these majestic creatures, underscoring the importance of ongoing protection and monitoring efforts to safeguard their population against natural and human-induced threats.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Meet the bird that looks like a 'baby dragon', but is the most unique voice in the night sky
The Great Eared Nightjar, a bird resembling a 'baby dragon,' inhabits the dense forests of South and Southeast Asia. Its mottled plumage provides excellent camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the forest floor. While known for its eerie calls, this elusive bird also possesses a surprisingly melodic song, showcasing its diverse vocal abilities and adaptations for survival. N ature is full of paradoxes, as sometimes dangerous-looking beings are also gifted with skills and adaptations that go far beyond imagination, according to their appearances. One such mysterious creature remains hidden in the shadows of dense forests across South and Southeast Asia. Popularly known as the 'baby dragon' of the avian world, this nocturnal bird compels us to recall our interest in the mythical appearance of animals and birds. Despite this, this species remains virtually unseen during daylight hours because of its camouflage. Which bird is called the 'baby dragon' The Great Eared Nightjar, often called a 'baby dragon' due to its exceptional appearance, is the largest nightjar species in terms of length, measuring between 31 and 41 cm. With long ear tufts, a white throat band, and mottled brown, gray, and black feathers, it resembles a tiny dragon more than a typical bird. It is native to dense lowland and montane forests across India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines, and due to its elusive nature, the secretive species lives in thick vegetation that conceals it during the day. The IUCN and experts consider it to be of Least Concern, indicating stable populations, though habitat loss remains a potential threat. What helps this bird in camouflaging? By day, the great eared nightjar remains motionless on the forest floor, blending easily into leaf litter and fallen twigs. Rather than constructing a nest, it lays a single egg directly on bare ground or in a shallow scrape, protecting its egg and chick through camouflage of its feathers. Both parents take turns incubating, and the hatchling remains immobile among the leaves until it can fly. Voice of the night The 'baby dragon's' call begins with a crisp, sharp 'tsiik,' followed by a pause and a haunting two-syllable whistle, 'ba‑haaww', which resonates through forests at dawn and dusk. But surprisingly, despite its eerie nickname and haunting nighttime calls, the great eared nightjar also sings in surprisingly sweet, melodic tones during certain moments, especially in calm twilight hours. Its vocal ability is supported by a highly adapted vocal organ called the syrinx, which helps it to produce a wide range of complex sounds. This helps the bird not only to communicate across dense forests but also to charm potential mates with softer, musical notes. While it's often remembered for its dragon-like look and ghostly calls, this unique bird can also be quite the gentle forest singer when it wants to be.
