Question : Kusheswarasthan Bird Sanctuary

(a) whether there is any plan to develop Kusheshwarasthan Bird Sanctuary of Darbhanga district of Bihar, if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the Government has taken note of the slow pace of development of the bird sanctuary despite being functional for over 25 years, if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has observed the drastic decrease in the number of migrant birds that used to visit the bird sanctuary, if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether the Government has formulated any proposal to conserve and promote this bird sanctuary and develop it as a major tourist spot since the area is a major pilgrimage centre in Bihar; and
(e) if so, the time by which it is likely to be carried out?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(SHRI BABUL SUPRIYO)

(a) The Management Plan of Kusheshwarasthan Bird Sanctuary for development and conservation, has been prepared for the period from 2017-18 to 2026-27.

(b) The development of any protected area involves conservation and protection of wildlife and habitat which is a continuous process. Accordingly, many developmental works have been taken which include protection (creation of wetland mitra, regular patrolling), community participation (Solar lamp distribution, fishing kit for livelihood) habitat improvement (Di-siltation, weed removal), promotion to popularize Bird Sanctuary etc. Government of India has also sanctioned funds for Kusheshwarasthan Bird Sanctuary under CSS-NPCA Scheme during the last three years are as follows: -

F.Y. Sanctioned Amount
(Rs. in lakh)
2017-18 17.96
2018-19 17.96 (Revalidated)
2019-20 19.40


(c) No such survey has been conducted by the Bihar Forest Department.

(d) & (e) The Management Plan of Kusheshwarasthan Bird Sanctuary inter alia includes the conservation of bird sanctuary. The Government has not formulated any proposal for its development as a major tourist spot.

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