Rakesh Kumar Sharma
World Wildlife Day is observed annually on March 3rd to raise awareness about the rich biodiversity of our planet and the crucial role that wild animals and plants play in maintaining ecological balance. The day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013 to highlight the importance of wildlife conservation and habitat protection. World Wildlife Day also coincides with the date the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was signed. This global event sheds light on the numerous threats faced by wildlife, including poaching, habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution. By emphasizing the importance of conservation, the day encourages individuals, communities, and governments to take proactive measures to protect and preserve the natural world.
The Role Of Wildlife In Ecosystems
Wildlife is a lifeline for the planet, playing a fundamental role in sustaining ecosystems and supporting human survival. However, many species are endangered due to human activities such as illegal wildlife trade, deforestation, and the exploitation of animals for entertainment. The removal of animals from their natural habitats disrupts the delicate balance of nature and leads to irreversible consequences. World Wildlife Day serves as a reminder of our ethical responsibility to coexist with nature, promoting sustainable practices and ensuring a future where wildlife thrives in its natural environment.
India’s Rich And Diverse Wildlife
India is exceptionally rich and diverse in wildlife, with about 24.6% of the country’s total area covered by forests. The nation is home to an estimated 92,873 species of fauna, accounting for 7.5% of the world’s total, and around 29,000 species of plants, which represents 9% of the global plant species identified to date. India’s unique geographical and climatic variations, ranging from the Himalayas in the north to the coastal regions in the south, have contributed to this remarkable biodiversity. The country hosts a wide variety of ecosystems, including grasslands, deserts, wetlands, and dense forests, which serve as habitats for many rare and endangered species such as the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, one-horned rhinoceros, and snow leopard.
Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh known for its lush green forests and diverse ecosystems, has approximately 20,230 square kilometers of forest cover, constituting around 20% of the region’s total geographical area. These forests are vital for the survival of numerous species of flora and fauna while also playing a crucial role in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh region is home to around 7,100 species of fauna, including 26 species of mammals, 33 species of birds, and five species of reptiles or fish. Alongside this, thousands of plant species coexist, enriching the region’s biodiversity and making conservation efforts in this area even more critical.
Conservation Efforts At Global Level
The protection of wildlife and the preservation of biodiversity are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of our planet. Various global organizations recognize the urgent need to safeguard endangered species of both flora and fauna, ensuring their survival for future generations. Among these, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) plays a significant role, operating in over 100 countries to protect threatened species and their habitats. The organization employs advanced scientific methods, conservation strategies, and community-driven initiatives to mitigate the threats posed by habitat destruction, climate change, and illegal poaching. Similarly, other international organizations, such as Conservation International (CI) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), are actively engaged in research, policy advocacy, and on-ground conservation programs. These organizations work closely with governments, local communities, and scientific experts to develop sustainable solutions, such as establishing protected areas, restoring degraded habitats, and enforcing anti-poaching laws.
India’s Commitment To Wildlife Conservation
India, as a responsible and globally conscious nation, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to preserving wildlife and maintaining ecological balance. With nearly one-fourth of its total geographical area covered by forests, the country has taken significant steps to ensure a healthy, pollution-free environment that supports diverse flora and fauna. However, several pressing threats to wildlife need urgent attention, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. These challenges are direct consequences of human greed and unsustainable activities. The Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, rightly said, “There is enough for the need of the people, but not for the greed of the people.”
India has taken significant steps to protect its wildlife through extensive conservation efforts. As of 2023, the government has established 1,022 protected areas, including 106 national parks, 573 wildlife sanctuaries, 220 conservation reserves, and 123 community reserves. Additionally, there are 55 tiger reserves, 18 biosphere reserves, and 32 elephant reserves, all aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats. Special initiatives such as Project Tiger, Project Elephant, and Project Dolphin focus on the conservation of key species. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 has played a crucial role in curbing illegal hunting and habitat destruction. Local communities are also actively involved in monitoring, reporting violations, and safeguarding species. Similarly, in Jammu and Kashmir, conservation efforts include five national parks, 14 wildlife sanctuaries, and 35 conservation sites, ensuring the protection of its unique biodiversity.
Conclusion
Our forests and wildlife play a dominant role in making our planet a beautiful place to live. Their incredible diversity provides life and sustenance to all living beings, and it is our collective responsibility to protect and nurture them. We must cultivate a strong sense of empathy and duty toward all forms of life, including flora and fauna, not just on World Wildlife Day but every single day. It is only through the combined efforts of governments, communities, and individuals that we can safeguard our precious wildlife, especially the 172 threatened species in India. Conservation is not a choice but a necessity for a sustainable future.
(The author is Air Veteran and a Retired Tehsildar )
Follow our WhatsApp channel
