India wildlife conservation projects launched during Wildlife Week 2025 include Project Dolphin Phase II, Project Sloth Bear, Project Gharial, and Tigers Outside Reserves Initiative to promote species protection and human-wildlife coexistence.
India Launches 5 Species Projects During Wildlife Week 2025
In a significant stride towards wildlife conservation, India has unveiled five national-level projects during the Wildlife Week 2025 celebrations, held from October 2 to 8. The initiatives, launched by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun on October 6, aim to bolster species protection and address human-wildlife conflicts.
1. Project Dolphin (Phase II)
Building upon the success of its predecessor, Project Dolphin (Phase II) focuses on enhancing the conservation of both river and marine cetaceans across India. This phase aims to strengthen monitoring, protection, and habitat restoration efforts to ensure the survival of these aquatic mammals.
2. Project Sloth Bear
The newly launched Project Sloth Bear seeks to implement a national framework for the conservation of sloth bears. This initiative includes habitat preservation, population monitoring, and community engagement to safeguard this vulnerable species.
3. Project Gharial
Project Gharial focuses on the conservation of the critically endangered gharial, a species of crocodilian found in the northern Indian subcontinent. The project emphasizes habitat restoration, breeding programs, and community awareness to protect this unique reptile.
4. Centre of Excellence for Human–Wildlife Conflict Management (CoE-HWC)
Established at the Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), the CoE-HWC aims to develop innovative solutions for mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. The center will focus on research, policy development, and field-based strategies to promote coexistence between humans and wildlife.
5. Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves Initiative
Recognizing that a significant number of tigers reside outside designated reserves, this initiative aims to address human-tiger conflicts in non-protected landscapes. The project will employ technological interventions, community participation, and landscape-level planning to ensure the safety and conservation of tigers in these areas.
Why This News Is Important
The launch of these five national-level conservation projects underscores India’s commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity and addressing the challenges posed by human-wildlife conflicts. By focusing on species-specific conservation efforts and promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife, these initiatives align with the broader goals of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Historical Context
India has a long-standing tradition of wildlife conservation, with various initiatives aimed at protecting its diverse flora and fauna. The establishment of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and the implementation of species-specific conservation programs have been pivotal in preserving endangered species. The recent launch of these five projects builds upon this legacy, reflecting a proactive approach to conservation in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Key Takeaways from ‘India Launches 5 Species Projects During Wildlife Week 2025’
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Project Dolphin (Phase II) aims to enhance conservation efforts for river and marine cetaceans. |
| 2 | Project Sloth Bear introduces a national framework for the conservation of sloth bears. |
| 3 | Project Gharial focuses on the protection of the critically endangered gharial species. |
| 4 | CoE-HWC at SACON will develop strategies to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. |
| 5 | Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves Initiative addresses conservation challenges for tigers outside protected areas. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the five national-level wildlife projects launched during Wildlife Week 2025?
The five projects are: Project Dolphin (Phase II), Project Sloth Bear, Project Gharial, Centre of Excellence for Human–Wildlife Conflict Management (CoE-HWC), and Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves Initiative.
2. Who launched these wildlife conservation projects in India?
Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, launched these projects at the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun.
3. What is the primary focus of Project Dolphin (Phase II)?
It focuses on enhancing conservation efforts for both river and marine cetaceans, including monitoring, habitat restoration, and protection measures.
4. Where is the Centre of Excellence for Human–Wildlife Conflict Management established?
It is established at the Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON).
5. Why is the Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves Initiative important?
It addresses human-tiger conflicts and conservation challenges in non-protected landscapes where a significant number of tigers live outside designated reserves.
6. What is the main goal of Project Sloth Bear?
To implement a national framework for the conservation of sloth bears, including habitat preservation, population monitoring, and community engagement.
7. What is the significance of Project Gharial?
It focuses on the conservation of the critically endangered gharial, emphasizing habitat restoration, breeding programs, and public awareness.
8. How do these initiatives contribute to sustainable development?
By promoting species-specific conservation and coexistence between humans and wildlife, the projects support biodiversity preservation and environmental stewardship.
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