The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have been actively involved in assessing the population of black-necked cranes in various regions of the country.
Ladakh Region
According to the survey conducted by WII in 2016-2017 in Ladakh, the population size of black-necked cranes was estimated to be approximately 66-69 individuals.
Arunachal Pradesh
In Arunachal Pradesh, a smaller population of around 11 individuals is reported to arrive during the winter months.
Legal Protection
The Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis) holds a significant status in terms of legal protection.
Schedule I Listing
It is listed in Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, affording it the highest degree of protection.
International Listings
The species is also included in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species.
Protected Habitats
Several habitats crucial for the Black-necked Crane have been officially recognized and protected.
Notified Protected Areas
For instance, the Changthang Sanctuary in Ladakh is designated as a Protected Area to safeguard the habitat of the black-necked crane.
Ramsar Site Designation
The Tso Kar Wetlands Complex, recognized as an important foraging and breeding ground for the species, was declared a Ramsar Site in December 2020.
Conservation Initiatives
The National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-2031) outlines specific chapters and priority actions for various aspects of wildlife conservation.
Financial Assistance
The Central Government supports State/Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme ‘Development of Wildlife Habitats’ for the management of wildlife and its habitat.
Management Planning
Guidelines for the process of management planning for Protected Areas have been issued by the Ministry under Section 33 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
Mission LiFE
The Government of India has launched the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) program to promote public awareness about the environment and conservation.
Awareness Campaigns
Several important days and events are celebrated to raise awareness about wildlife and biodiversity.
- World Wildlife Day
- Wetlands Day
- Migratory Bird Day
- Wildlife Week
Official Statement
This information was provided by Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What is the estimated population size of black-necked cranes in Ladakh according to the WII survey in 2016-2017?
- A. 50-55
- B. 66-69
- C. 70-75
- D. 80-85
- Answer: B
- Which legal schedule of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, includes the Black-necked Crane?
- A. Schedule II
- B. Schedule III
- C. Schedule I
- D. Schedule IV
- Answer: C
- What international conventions list the Black-necked Crane as a protected species?
- A. CITES
- B. Both A and B
- C. Ramsar Convention
- D. None of the above
- Answer: B
- Which wetland complex was designated as a Ramsar Site in December 2020 due to its importance for Black-necked Crane habitat?
- A. Tso Moriri Wetlands
- B. Tso Kar Wetlands Complex
- C. Pangong Tso Wetlands
- D. Dal Lake Wetlands
- Answer: B
- What is the main objective of the Mission LiFE program initiated by the Government of India?
- A. Wildlife population assessment
- B. Public awareness about the environment and conservation
- C. Habitat protection
- D. Legal protection for endangered species
- Answer: B