PANEL TO STUDY SCOPE OF ALTERING POWER LINES IN BUSTARD HABITAT:

Why in the news?

The Supreme Court forms an expert panel to address threats posed by power lines to endangered Great Indian Bustard populations.

About Supreme Court’s Initiative:

  • The Supreme Court has formed an expert committee to address the conflict between conserving the endangered Great Indian Bustard and promoting renewable energy.
  • High-powered power cables pose a significant threat to the Bustard population, leading to collisions near their habitats in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
  • Recognizing the need to revise the blanket direction issued in April 2019, the court appointed a diverse panel comprising wildlife experts, government officials, and representatives from energy agencies.
source:themirror
About Great Indian Bustard (GIB):

●  State Bird of Rajasthan: Great Indian Bustard (GIB) holds the honour of being Rajasthan’s state bird.

●  Critically Endangered: GIB is India’s most critically endangered bird species.

●  Habitat and Threats: Mostly found in Rajasthan and Gujarat, facing threats from power lines, hunting, and habitat loss due to agriculture.

Protection Status:

●   IUCN Red List: Great Indian Bustard (GIB) classified as Critically Endangered.

●   CITES: Listed in Appendix I, indicating the highest level of protection under international trade regulations.

●   CMS: Included in Appendix I of the Convention on Migratory Species.

●   Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: GIB listed under Schedule 1, providing legal protection within India.