(a) whether Scientists and taxonomists have discovered 349 new species of flora and fauna during the last two years in the country ;
(b) if so, the details thereof ;
(c) whether it is true that two species of reptile have also been located for the first time in the country ;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the reaction of the Government thereto ?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(SHRI PRAKASH JAVADEKAR)
(a) & (b) As per the scientific studies conducted by scientists and taxonomists of Botanical Survey of India (BSI) and Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), 347 plant species and 424 animal species have been discovered in the year 2013 and 2014. The details of the species have been published as “Plant Discoveries 2013” & “Plant Discoveries 2014” published by BSI and “Animal Discoveries 2013” & “Animal Discoveries 2014” by ZSI.
(c) to (e) Yes, two species of reptiles have been located for the first time in the country. These are “Boiga flaviviridis” located in Berahampur, Odisha and “Rhinophis goweri” located in Noolathu Kombai, Bodamalai hills. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 has also been enacted for protection of wild animals, birds and plants. As per the provisions of this Act, Protected Areas viz National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves, have been created all over the country covering the important habitats, to provide better protection to wildlife, including threatened species and their habitat. All endangered species are protected under Section 38 of the Biological Diversity Act 2002, which empowers the Central Government in consultation with the concerned State Government to notify from time to time any species which are on the verge of extinction or likely to become extinct in the near future as threatened species, and prohibit or regulate their collection, and also to take appropriate steps to rehabilitate and preserve those species.
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