HORNS OF DILEMMA : SAVING INDIA'S ICONIC BLACK BUCK

 

A blackbuck is a species of antelope found in India and Nepal. They are also known as Indian antelope and have a distinctively dark , spiral- horned males and females that are yellowish fawn coloured. They primarily found in grassland and shrubland habitats and are known for their fast running speed. Blackbuck are considered as near threatened species as per IUCN and protected by Indian wildlife protection Act 1972.

IMPORTANCE

CULTURAL IMPORTANCE

They have been revered in Hindu and Jain texts for thousands of years and are considered sacred animal in many parts of India.

ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE

• As a grazing animal , blackbuck play an important role in maintaining the balance of grass land and shrubland ecosystem.
• They also serve as prey for carnivorous animals such as wolves, leopards ,and dholes.
• Black buck populations are considered as an indicator of the health of the grass land ecosystem.
• Also , their presence creates a balance in the grassland ecosystem by controlling the growth of the grass by eating them .

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE

Black buck hunting is a popular spot, and it brings in significant revenue from tourism.

THREATS

• Habitat loss : Due to conversion of glass land into agricultural land, urbanization and industrial development.
• Over grazing by domestic livestock
• Poaching : For their meat and horns, which are used in traditional medicine and as a status symbol.
• Competition for food and habitat from other grazing animals.
• Disease outbreaks , such as foot and mouth disease .
• Human - Wildlife conflict .

GOVERNMENT SCHEMES FOR PROTECTION

• Project tiger : This ambitious conservation program was launched in 1972 to protect Bengal tigers and their habitats. Black buck habitats are also protected under this as they are found i many same areas as tigers.
• Wildlife protection act 1972 : It provides for the protection of black buck and their habitats and include provisions like hunting, trapping and trade in black buck and their products.
• National wildlife action plan ( 2017- 2031) : The plan focuses on conservation of Black buck through habitat protection and management , research , monitoring and survey , human - wildlife conflict management and anti poaching efforts.
• National Biodiversity action plan : Under this the government recognizes black buck as priority species and outlines conservation measure to protect it and its habitats.

WAY FORWARD

• Habitat protection : Restoration of grasslands and shrublands along with promoting sustainable land use practices.
• Anti poaching efforts : By proper implementation of laws.
• Disease management  : Conducting vaccination programs along with proper monitoring.
• Research .
• Education and awareness.
• Ecological restoration .

These conservation efforts , if implemented effectively , can help to conserve and protect black buck populations, while balancing the needs of people and wildlife.