(a) whether according to the International Union of Conservation of Nature and Natural
Resources, several species of fauna and flora particularly vulture, etc. are on the verge of
extinction;
(b) if so, the details thereof and reasons therefor, species of birds and animals-wise; and
(c) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to save these species of fauna
and flora from extinction?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI S. REGUPATHY)
(a) & (b) The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources in
their Red Data list (2007) has reported that a total of 560 species of animals & plants are
threatened in India. Out of these, a total of 313 species including vultures, etc. are animals,
while 247 are plant species. Amongst the animals, the number of reported threatened species in
India is as follows:
(i) Mammals: 89
(ii)Birds: 75
(iii)Reptiles: 25
(iv)Amphibians: 63
(v)Fishes: 39
(vi)Molluscs: 2
(vii)Other Invertebrates: 20
The main reason for the decline in the number of faunal and floral species is loss of habitats
of these species. The other reasons include anthropogenic pressures,incorporation of poisonous
substances in the food chain due to intensive agriculture, horticulture, dairying, etc.
(c) The Steps taken by the Government to protect these species are as follows:
i) Legal protection has been provided to endangered wild animals and plants including Tiger,
Lion,Elephant,Leopard,Rhino,Wild Buffalo,Tibetan Antelope,Marine turtles,Corals,etc,against
hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
ii) The Wildlife (Protection) Act has been amended and made more stringent.The punishments
in cases of offences have been enhanced.
iii) Protected Areas,viz,National Parks,Sanctuaries,Conservation Reserves and Community
Reserves all over the country covering the important habitats have been created as per the
provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to provide better protection to wildlife,
including threatened species and their habitat.
iv) Financial and technical assistance is extended to the State/UT Governments under
various Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz, ‘Development of National Parks & Sanctuaries’,
‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ for providing better protection and conservation to
wildlife.
v) The State Governments have been requested to strengthen the field formations and
intensify patrolling in and around the Protected Areas.
vi) The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up for control of poaching and illegal
trade in wildlife and its products.
vii) Strict vigil is maintained through effective communication system.