Question : Endangered Species

(a) the total number of endangered animals and birds recorded in the country during each of the last three years, State-wise;
(b) whether the Government has taken latest and adequate security measures for the establishment of special parks and protection of endangered species of animals and birds in the country;
(c) if so, the details thereof and the amount sanctioned in this regard during the said period, State-wise;
(d) whether the Government has formed or advised the State/UTs to form important committees/wings dealing with endangered animals; and
(e) if so, the details thereof along with the composition, roles and responsibilities of such committees/wings?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE)

(a) Enumeration of major species like tiger, elephant and rhino are done periodically in the country. However, as per the Red list version published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), followings were listed as ‘Threatened Species’ (Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable) during the last three years:
S.No. Year
Taxa 2013 2015 2016
1 Mammals 95 96 92
2 Birds 80 82 87
3 Reptiles 50 53 54
4 Amphibians 74 75 75
5 Fishes 213 214 222
6 Other Invertebrates 134 135 135


(b)&(c) Though some of the Protected Areas are specifically dedicated for conservation of certain endangered species, financial assistance under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes viz, ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, ‘Project Tiger’, and ‘Project Elephant’ are provided to State/UT Governments for protection and conservation of wildlife including endangered species and their habitats. State-wise details of funds released under these schemes during the last three years are given in the Annexure-I.

(d)&(e) State Governments are empowered to constitute Committees for conservation of wildlife based on need based assessment. However, the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, stipulates formation of State Board for Wild Life under the chairmanship of respective Chief Ministers. Chief Wildlife Wardens of the respective states are responsible for coordination of activities for wildlife conservation. The composition and duties of the State Board is at Annexure-II.

****