Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Vultures, vital scavengers in ecosystems, play a crucial role in preventing the spread of diseases by disposing of carcasses. However, populations of South Asian vultures – White-rumped, Slender-billed, and Long-billed – suffered a catastrophic decline starting in the 1990s, with populations plummeting by over 99%. This crisis was primarily attributed to the veterinary drug diclofenac. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Indian government launched several conservation efforts, including the establishment of conservation breeding centres, which are now central to the Action Plan for Vulture Conservation, 2020-2025. These centres are not merely a reactive measure but a proactive strategy for species recovery.
The Vulture Crisis and its Causes
The drastic decline in vulture populations was initially a mystery, but research revealed the primary culprit: diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used in livestock. Vultures feeding on carcasses of animals treated with diclofenac suffered kidney failure and visceral gout, leading to death. While diclofenac has been banned for veterinary use, its illegal availability and the presence of other NSAIDs pose ongoing threats.
Other contributing factors include:
- Habitat Loss: Deforestation and changes in agricultural practices have reduced foraging areas.
- Food Availability: Decline in wild ungulate populations impacts food sources.
- Poaching and Accidental Electrocution: Vultures are sometimes intentionally poisoned or electrocuted by power lines.
Role of Conservation Breeding Centres
Conservation breeding centres are integral to the Action Plan for Vulture Conservation, 2020-2025, for several key reasons:
1. Preventing Extinction through Captive Breeding
These centres aim to establish genetically viable captive populations of critically endangered vulture species. This serves as an ‘insurance population’ against extinction in the wild. Centres like Pinjore (Haryana), Rajabhatkhawa (West Bengal), and Rani Gandhinagar (Gujarat) are actively involved in breeding programmes.
2. Reintroduction Programs
Once sufficient numbers are bred in captivity, the centres facilitate reintroduction programs into suitable habitats. This is a complex process requiring careful site selection, pre-release conditioning, and post-release monitoring. The success of reintroduction hinges on addressing the threats that caused the initial decline.
3. Research and Monitoring
Breeding centres serve as hubs for research on vulture biology, behaviour, and health. This research informs conservation strategies and helps identify emerging threats. Monitoring of released vultures is crucial to assess the success of reintroduction efforts and adapt management practices.
4. Capacity Building and Awareness
These centres play a role in training personnel in vulture conservation techniques and raising public awareness about the importance of vultures and the threats they face. Community involvement is essential for the long-term success of conservation efforts.
5. Genetic Management
Maintaining genetic diversity within the captive population is crucial. Breeding centres employ sophisticated genetic management techniques to avoid inbreeding and ensure the long-term health of the captive population. This includes careful selection of breeding pairs and exchange of birds between centres.
Linking Breeding Centres to the Action Plan 2020-2025
The Action Plan for Vulture Conservation, 2020-2025, prioritizes the following:
- Strengthening Conservation Breeding: Expanding the capacity of existing breeding centres and establishing new ones.
- Reducing Diclofenac Availability: Enforcing the ban on diclofenac and promoting the use of safe alternatives like meloxicam.
- Habitat Protection: Identifying and protecting important vulture foraging and nesting habitats.
- Supplementary Feeding: Providing supplementary food sources in areas where natural food is scarce.
- Monitoring and Research: Conducting regular population surveys and research on vulture ecology.
Conservation breeding centres directly contribute to achieving these goals by providing birds for reintroduction, conducting research, and supporting monitoring efforts. The Action Plan recognizes the breeding centres as a cornerstone of the vulture conservation strategy.
| Centre | State | Species Bred |
|---|---|---|
| Pinjore | Haryana | Himalayan Griffon, White-rumped Vulture |
| Rajabhatkhawa | West Bengal | White-rumped Vulture, Slender-billed Vulture |
| Rani Gandhinagar | Gujarat | White-rumped Vulture |
Conclusion
Conservation breeding centres are undeniably vital components of the Action Plan for Vulture Conservation, 2020-2025. They offer a lifeline to critically endangered vulture species, providing a means to prevent extinction, re-establish populations in the wild, and advance our understanding of these ecologically important birds. However, the success of these centres is contingent upon addressing the root causes of the vulture crisis – eliminating diclofenac, protecting habitats, and fostering community participation. A holistic and multi-pronged approach is essential to ensure the long-term survival of vultures in the Indian subcontinent.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.