Vulture Conservation in India

Context:

India's two-decade-long vulture conservation efforts have recently seen significant progress. Vulture populations in India have declined drastically, primarily due to the veterinary drug diclofenac.

Background of the Crisis:

In the 1990s, India witnessed a catastrophic 99% decline in vulture populations, primarily due to the veterinary drug diclofenac.

• • Vultures fed on carcasses of cattle treated with diclofenac.
  • The drug caused kidney failure and rapid mortality in vultures.
  • The sharp decline disrupted ecological balance, leading to:
    • Rise in stray dog populations
    • Increased risk of rabies
    • Accumulation of decaying carcasses, raising disease transmission risks

Key Conservation Efforts and Achievements:

Captive Breeding Programme

• • • Initiated in 2004 by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) in collaboration with state forest departments.
    • Major breeding centres include:
      • Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre Pinjore
      • Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre Rajabhatkhawa
      • Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre Rani
      • Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre Bhopal

Target Species

• • • White-rumped Vulture
    • Long-billed Vulture
    • Slender-billed Vulture
      (All classified as Critically Endangered)

Why Tiger Reserves Are Safe Release Sites:

Tiger reserves such as Pench Tiger Reserve, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, and Melghat Tiger Reserve are preferred for vulture reintroduction because:

• • • Safe food sources: Wild carcasses are free from harmful veterinary drugs.
    • Minimal human interference: Reduced disturbance supports nesting and survival.
    • Ecological suitability: Large protected landscapes provide stable habitats.

Policy Measures and Challenges:

• • India banned diclofenac in 2006 and later restricted other harmful NSAIDs such as ketoprofen, aceclofenac, and nimesulide.
  • However, challenges remain:
    • Continued illegal or unsafe veterinary drug use
    • Need for effective Vulture Safe Zones outside protected areas
    • Ensuring safe and sustainable food availability

Vultures in India:

Key Facts

• • • Vultures are social, scavenging birds that play a crucial ecological role by removing animal carcasses and preventing disease spread.
    • Of the 23 vulture species found globally, 9 species occur in India.
    • They are characterized by broad wings, bald heads, excellent soaring ability, and carrion-feeding behavior.

Legal Protection

• • • CITES: Appendix II
    • Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule I

Conservation Status of Indian Vultures

Conclusion:

Vulture conservation in India represents a significant ecological recovery effort. The gradual revival of these scavengers is not only about saving a species but also about restoring ecological balance, disease control, and ecosystem health across the country.