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सक्षम Test Series 2024
20 November, 2024
Fauna of India Checklist Portal
Mon 01 Jul, 2024
Context
- India has made a significant stride in biodiversity documentation by preparing a comprehensive checklist of its entire fauna. This initiative covers 1,04,561 species, making India the first country in the world to achieve such a feat. The "Fauna of India Checklist Portal" was launched on the 109th Foundation Day of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) in Kolkata by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav.
Key Highlights
Content of the Document:
- Total Species: Covers 1,04,561 species.
- Number of Checklists: Comprises 121 checklists.
- Taxa Covered: Includes all known taxa, covering 36 phyla.
- Special Inclusions: Endemic, threatened, and scheduled species.
Importance and Utilization:
- Reference for: Taxonomists, researchers, academicians, conservation managers, and policymakers.
- Objective: To provide a comprehensive and invaluable reference for various stakeholders involved in biodiversity conservation and research.
India’s Commitment to Biodiversity:
- Global Leadership: The initiative reflects India's status as a global champion in biodiversity conservation.
- Major Programme: "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam," a significant programme undertaken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlights India's commitment to environmental conservation.
Major Government Initiatives for Conservation of Biodiversity:
| Year | Initiative | Description |
| 1972 | Wildlife Protection Act | Legislation aimed at protecting wildlife and their habitats from poaching and illegal trade. |
| 1980 | Project Tiger | Launched to conserve the Bengal tiger and its habitats through tiger reserves across India. |
| 1992 | Project Elephant | Initiative to protect elephants, their habitats, and corridors, addressing human-wildlife conflict. |
| 2011 | National Mission for Green India (GIM) | Enhances ecosystem services, including biodiversity conservation, through afforestation and reforestation. |
| 2014 | Namami Gange Programme | Focuses on cleaning and conserving the River Ganges and its tributaries. |
| 2016 | National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP) | Outlines strategies for wildlife conservation and habitat preservation in India. |
| 2018 | National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) | Addresses air pollution issues to improve air quality, indirectly benefiting biodiversity. |
| 2020 | National Action Plan for Vulture Conservation | Aims to conserve vulture species threatened due to diclofenac poisoning. |
| 2021 | Project Dolphin | Launched to conserve and protect dolphins in Indian rivers and coastal areas. |