Syllabus: GS- III & V:  Biodiversity and Conservation

Why in the News?

Concerns are growing over the destruction of wetlands and natural habitats used by migratory birds across India, especially along major flyways.

• Experts have stressed the need for year-round conservation of wetlands, river systems and bird habitats to protect migratory species arriving in India during different seasons.

Why Migratory Birds are Important

• Migratory birds travel thousands of kilometres across countries and continents in search of food, breeding grounds and favourable climate.
• India becomes a seasonal home for millions of migratory birds during winter and summer.
• These birds help maintain ecological balance by:
  • Controlling insect populations.
  • Supporting pollination and seed dispersal.
  • Acting as indicators of environmental health.

What are Flyways?

• A Flyway is a route regularly used by migratory birds between breeding and wintering grounds.
• India lies along the Central Asian Flyway (CAF), one of the world’s major migratory bird routes.
• The flyway covers over 30 countries and supports around 600 migratory bird species.

Wetlands: Lifeline of Migratory Birds

• Wetlands such as lakes, beels, marshes, floodplains and riverbanks provide food, nesting and resting sites for birds.
• According to studies under the Central Asian Flyway Action Plan, nearly:
  • 80% of migratory bird species depend on wetlands as habitat.
  • Less than 20% depend mainly on forest habitats.
• Destruction of wetlands during summer months disrupts breeding and feeding cycles of birds.

Major Threats to Migratory Bird Habitats

• Rapid urbanisation and encroachment of wetlands.
• Pollution from sewage, industrial waste and plastics.
• River alteration, sand mining and infrastructure projects.
• Climate change causing irregular rainfall and habitat shifts.
• Hunting and disturbance during breeding seasons.

Government Initiatives and Conservation Efforts

• India launched the National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) for integrated management of wetlands and lakes.
• The plan is implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• Conservation measures include:
  • Wetland restoration and desiltation.
  • Removal of invasive species.
  • Biodiversity conservation and community participation.
  • Awareness campaigns in schools and villages.

Role of Communities

• Local communities living near wetlands are key stakeholders in conservation.
• Traditional knowledge and community monitoring can help protect bird habitats.
• Experts have suggested creation of:
  • Student ambassador programmes.
  • Bird conservation clubs.
  • Local biodiversity registers for recording bird species.

Importance for Northeast India

• Assam and Northeast India host several important wetlands such as Deepor Beel, which attract migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia.
• Floodplains of the Brahmaputra and Barak river systems are ecologically important resting grounds.

Way Forward

• Conservation should move beyond seasonal protection and become a year-round effort.
• Scientific wetland management, strict anti-encroachment measures and public participation are essential.
• Protecting wetlands is not only about saving birds, but also about preserving water security, biodiversity and climate resilience.

Important Terms Explained

• Migratory Birds: Birds that travel seasonally between different regions.
• Flyway: Migration route followed by birds across countries and continents.
• Wetlands: Water-rich ecosystems such as lakes, marshes and floodplains.
• Central Asian Flyway: Major migration route connecting Arctic regions with South Asia.
• Biodiversity: Variety of plants, animals and microorganisms in an ecosystem.
• Invasive Species: Non-native species that harm local ecosystems.

Exam Hook – Key Takeaways

• India lies on the Central Asian Flyway used by migratory birds.
• Wetlands are the most important habitats for migratory bird species.
• National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems supports wetland conservation.
• Habitat destruction and climate change are major threats to migratory birds.
• Community participation is crucial for successful conservation.

 Mains Question

“Wetland conservation is essential not only for biodiversity protection but also for climate resilience and ecological security.” Discuss with reference to migratory bird habitats in India.

One Line Wrap

• Protecting migratory bird habitats means protecting wetlands, rivers and ecosystems that are essential for both biodiversity and human survival.

TheSentinel ePaper-GuwahatiEnglish-Page No. 4-article