India National Red List 2025 is set to launch at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, assessing 11,000 species and boosting biodiversity conservation efforts.
India’s Historic Step in Biodiversity Conservation
India is set to unveil its inaugural National Red List of Endangered Species at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress, scheduled from October 9 to 15, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This significant development underscores India’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and aligns with global efforts to assess and mitigate species extinction risks.
What is the Red List?
The IUCN Red List is a globally recognized system for evaluating the conservation status of plant and animal species. It categorizes species based on their risk of extinction, ranging from ‘Least Concern’ to ‘Critically Endangered.’ India’s national version aims to provide a detailed assessment of its unique biodiversity, facilitating targeted conservation strategies.
India’s Vision 2025–2030
Union Minister of State for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, presented India’s Vision 2025–2030 for the National Red List Assessment at the Congress. This roadmap, developed by the Zoological Survey of India, Botanical Survey of India, and IUCN-India, outlines a coordinated approach to assess the extinction risk of approximately 11,000 species, including 7,000 plants and 4,000 animals. The initiative aims to publish National Red Data Books for both flora and fauna by 2030, adhering to IUCN-aligned scientific guidelines
Significance of the National Red List
The National Red List will serve as a critical tool for:
- Conservation Planning: Identifying species at risk and prioritizing conservation efforts.
- Policy Making: Informing environmental policies and regulations.
- Threat Mitigation: Addressing factors contributing to species decline, such as habitat loss and climate change.
- Global Reporting: Contributing to international biodiversity assessments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
India’s Biodiversity Landscape
India is one of the world’s 17 mega-diverse countries, hosting over 45,000 plant species and nearly 100,000 documented animal species. Its diverse ecosystems, including the Western Ghats, Himalayas, and Sundarbans, are home to numerous endemic species. The national Red List will encompass various taxa, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and plants, providing a comprehensive overview of the country’s biodiversity status .
Why This News is Important
India’s Commitment to Global Biodiversity Goals
The launch of the National Red List aligns with India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. By assessing and documenting species extinction risks, India contributes to global efforts aimed at halting biodiversity loss and promoting sustainable ecosystems.
Strengthening National Conservation Efforts
The Red List will provide a scientific basis for national conservation strategies, enabling targeted interventions for species at risk. It will facilitate the allocation of resources to areas and species most in need, enhancing the effectiveness of conservation programs.
Enhancing Policy and Decision-Making
With accurate data on species status, policymakers can craft informed regulations and policies that address the root causes of biodiversity decline. This evidence-based approach ensures that conservation efforts are both efficient and impactful.
Promoting Public Awareness and Engagement
The publication of the Red List will raise public awareness about the state of India’s biodiversity. It will encourage community involvement in conservation activities and foster a sense of responsibility towards protecting the country’s natural heritage.
Facilitating International Collaboration
By aligning with international standards, India’s Red List will facilitate collaboration with other nations and conservation organizations. It will enable the sharing of data and best practices, strengthening global conservation networks.
Historical Context:
India has a rich history of biodiversity conservation, with early efforts dating back to the establishment of protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries. The country’s membership in the IUCN since 1969 has facilitated participation in global conservation initiatives. However, the absence of a national Red List has been a gap in assessing and addressing species extinction risks. The launch of the National Red List marks a significant milestone in India’s conservation journey, reflecting a proactive approach to safeguarding its unique biodiversity.
Key Takeaways from “India to Launch First Red List at 2025 IUCN Congress”
| S.No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | India’s First National Red List: India will unveil its inaugural Red List of Endangered Species at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi. |
| 2 | Assessment of 11,000 Species: The initiative aims to assess the extinction risk of approximately 11,000 species, including 7,000 plants and 4,000 animals. |
| 3 | Vision 2025–2030: The National Red List Roadmap outlines a coordinated approach to assess and document species status, with plans to publish Red Data Books by 2030. |
| 4 | Scientific and Policy Tool: The Red List will serve as a critical tool for conservation planning, policy making, and threat mitigation in India. |
| 5 | Global Biodiversity Commitment: The launch aligns with India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is India’s National Red List of Endangered Species?
India’s National Red List is the country’s first comprehensive assessment of the conservation status of its flora and fauna, categorizing species based on their risk of extinction.
2. When and where will India launch the National Red List?
India will launch its first National Red List at the IUCN World Conservation Congress, held from October 9–15, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
3. How many species will be assessed under India’s Red List initiative?
Approximately 11,000 species will be assessed, including 7,000 plant species and 4,000 animal species.
4. Which organizations are involved in preparing India’s National Red List?
The Zoological Survey of India, Botanical Survey of India, and IUCN-India are collaborating to prepare the Red List.
5. What is the significance of India’s National Red List for conservation?
It serves as a critical tool for conservation planning, policy formulation, threat mitigation, public awareness, and international collaboration.
6. How does the National Red List align with global biodiversity goals?
It aligns with the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework by assessing species extinction risks and promoting sustainable ecosystems.
7. What is the expected outcome by 2030 for the Red List project?
India aims to publish National Red Data Books for both flora and fauna by 2030, following IUCN-aligned scientific guidelines.
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