Legacy IAS · Bangalore
🦌 National Wildlife Conservation Efforts
Project Hangul · IDWH · Animal Welfare Board India (AWBI) · NWAP 2017–2031 · Migratory Birds Action Plan · Green Good Deeds · BNHS — with current data, key facts, PYQs and MCQs.
13.7.1 · Species Recovery Programme
Project Hangul — Kashmir Stag
Hangul — Kashmir Stag (Cervus hanglu hanglu)
State Animal of J&K · Only surviving Asiatic subspecies of red deer · IUCN: Critically Endangered ★ · Dachigam National Park
Hangul (Kashmir Stag) in Dachigam National Park — Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
The Hangul (also called Kashmir Red Stag) is one of India’s most endangered mammals — India’s only surviving Asiatic red deer, endemic to the Kashmir Himalaya. ★ Famous for its magnificent multi-tined antlers (11–16 points). The male’s bugling call during the rutting season (October–December) echoes through Dachigam’s valleys. Its numbers plummeted from 5,000 in the 1940s to just 150 in 1970 — one of the steepest wildlife declines in Asia. ★
Habitat: Primarily confined to Dachigam National Park (141 km² near Srinagar) — one of the smallest ranges of any large deer. Small populations also in Tral Wildlife Sanctuary (14 individuals in 2023), Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sind Valley. ★
Matriarchal society ★: Like elephants, Hangul herds are led by the oldest female. Breeding October–December; fawns born May–June. Gestation: ~8 months. Feeds on grasses, herbs, leaves, bark. Migrates between valley (winter) and alpine meadows (summer). ★
Population Trend ★
1940s
~5,000
—
1970
150
↓
1980
340
↑ Project
2006
153
↓
2021
261
↑
2023
289
↑
2025 ★
323
↑ Hope
★ Project Hangul — Key Facts for UPSC
- Launched: 1970s — J&K Government + IUCN + WWF ★
- Initial success: Population rose from ~150 (1970) to 340 by 1980 ★ — proof conservation works
- Also called: Hangul Conservation Project (HCP) ★
- IUCN Status: Critically Endangered ★
- Legal protection: Schedule I, WPA 1972 + J&K Wildlife Protection Act, 1978 ★
- International: CITES Appendix I ★
- 2025 population: 323 — marginal recovery but still critically low ★
- State Animal: Jammu & Kashmir ★
- Dachigam NP: Located 15 km from Srinagar — altitude 1,600–4,200m ★
⚠ Major Threats to Hangul
- Habitat loss: Encroachment by Gujjar/Bakarwal shepherds and cattle into Dachigam — especially Upper Dachigam (traditional breeding ground now grazed) ★
- Livestock competition: Domestic cattle graze in Upper Dachigam, reducing food for Hangul + spreading diseases (foot-and-mouth, anthrax) ★
- Very low fawn-female ratio ★: Disturbance during mating/calving seasons from herders, dogs, and tourism reduces successful reproduction. 2025 study: population viability analysis shows extinction likely without urgent intervention
- Predation: Leopards, wolves, bears — predator pressure in a small isolated population is disproportionately high ★
- Political instability: Decades of conflict in Kashmir undermined conservation enforcement; 1990s turmoil saw population fall to ~140 ★
- Genetic isolation ★: Population restricted to 141 km² — inbreeding risk. Only viable Hangul population in the world; extinction in Dachigam = global extinction
13.7.2 · Centrally Sponsored Scheme
Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH)
IDWH is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) of MoEFCC that assists State Governments in protection of wildlife and its habitats OUTSIDE Protected Areas. ★ This fills a critical gap — most wildlife does not stay inside PAs all the time, and large areas outside PAs are important for wildlife movement, corridors, and habitat connectivity. ★
★ IDWH — Key Facts
- Type: Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) of MoEFCC ★
- Focus: Wildlife habitats OUTSIDE Protected Areas ★ — this is the key distinguishing feature
- Covers: Three components — (1) Protection and conservation of wildlife outside PAs, (2) Recovery programmes for critically endangered species and habitats, (3) Welfare of captive animals (in zoos etc.) ★
- State role: State Governments identify habitats for highly threatened species of flora and fauna outside PAs and submit proposals to MoEFCC for funding ★
- Species focus: 22 critically endangered species identified for special recovery under IDWH — including Gangetic dolphin, Hangul, Nilgiri tahr, etc. ★
- Why needed: India’s Protected Area network covers only ~4.88% of geographical area — but wildlife uses 100% of the landscape. IDWH protects the “other 95%” ★
💡 UPSC Trap — IDWH vs Project Tiger/Elephant
Project Tiger/Elephant = focused on specific flagship species, inside and around Tiger/Elephant Reserves. IDWH = broader scheme for all wildlife, specifically targeting areas outside PAs. A tiger corridor between two reserves that falls on revenue forest land would be covered by IDWH, not Project Tiger. ★
13.7.3 · Statutory Body — Animal Welfare
Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)
⚠ Critical UPSC Distinction — AWBI vs NBWL ★
- AWBI = Animal Welfare Board of India — focuses on welfare (preventing cruelty, suffering of animals) — under PCA Act 1960, covers both wild and domestic animals, under Ministry of Fisheries/AH&D ★
- NBWL = National Board for Wildlife — focuses on conservation of wild animals and their habitats — under WPA 1972, only wild species, under MoEFCC, chaired by PM ★
- The confusion: Both have “Animal” and “Wildlife/Welfare” in their names — UPSC frequently asks you to distinguish them. AWBI = welfare of all animals (including pets, farm animals); NBWL = conservation policy for wild species ★
13.7.4 · Policy Framework ★
National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP) 2017–2031
The National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP) is India’s comprehensive policy framework for wildlife conservation, updated every ~15 years. The Third NWAP (2017–2031) was released on 2 October 2017 by Environment Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan at the Global Wildlife Programme conference. ★
Three Phases of NWAP ★
NWAP I
1983–2001
1983–2001
Adopted in 1983 based on Indian Board of Wildlife’s XV meeting (1982). India’s first systematic wildlife conservation framework. Focused on Protected Area expansion and species protection. Remained in effect for 18 years. ★
NWAP II
2002–2016
2002–2016
Revised plan addressing new concerns — growing human-wildlife conflict, commercial exploitation of natural resources, population growth impacts. Introduced Wildlife Action Plans for priority species (tiger, elephant, etc.).
NWAP III
2017–2031 ★
2017–2031 ★
Current plan — Released 2 October 2017. First NWAP to explicitly recognise climate change impact on wildlife ★. Adopts landscape approach. 5 components, 17 themes, 103 conservation actions, 250 projects. Drafted by 12-member committee chaired by JC Kala. ★
5 Components of NWAP 2017–2031 ★
Component 1 ★
Strengthening & Improving the Protected Area Network
Expand PA coverage in underrepresented biogeographic zones. Complete legal formalities for existing PAs. Periodic review every 10 years. Target: expand 4.88% → adequate coverage. Landscape approach — not just inside PAs. ★
Component 2
Conservation of Species & Habitats
Recovery plans for threatened species. Ex-situ conservation. Critical habitats outside PA network identified and protected. Focus on 22 critically endangered species. Plant conservation — MPCAs and botanical gardens. ★
Component 3 ★
Climate Change Adaptation & Aquatic Biodiversity
First time climate change was explicitly integrated into India’s wildlife conservation planning ★. Long-term monitoring of habitat shifts. Vulnerability mapping for fires, droughts. Integrated coastal and marine ecosystem management. ★
Component 4
Ecotourism, Nature Education & Community Participation
Plough-back mechanism — tourism revenue to go back into PA management. Human resource development. Community involvement in conservation. Forest Rights Act compliance. Reducing human-wildlife conflict. ★
Component 5
Wildlife Research, Training & Human Resource Development
Strengthen National Wildlife Research Coordination Committee (NWRCC). Training of wildlife managers and frontline staff. Modern surveillance technology — camera traps, DNA forensics. Forensic support for anti-poaching. Awards for meritorious PA management. ★
★ NWAP 2017–2031 — UPSC Critical Facts
- Released: 2 October 2017 (Gandhi Jayanti) ★
- Structure: 5 components, 17 themes, 103 conservation actions, 250 projects ★
- Drafted by: 12-member committee chaired by JC Kala (former MoEFCC secretary) ★
- First NWAP to acknowledge climate change impact on wildlife ★ — biggest distinguishing feature of NWAP-3
- New approach: Landscape approach — conservation extends beyond PA boundaries into surrounding human-use landscapes ★
- India’s PA network: currently covers ~4.88% of geographical area (726+ PAs) ★
- Integrates Forest Rights Act — tribal communities’ rights in forest areas ★
13.7.5 · Species-Specific Plan
National Action Plan for Conservation of Migratory Birds (2018–2023)
India developed a National Action Plan for Conservation of Migratory Birds and their Habitats for the period 2018–2023, in response to India’s CMS obligations and the threats facing migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway. ★
★ Key Features
- Framework: Prepared by MoEFCC, aligned with CMS obligations and India’s National Biodiversity Action Plan ★
- Focus: Migratory birds using Indian territory for breeding, wintering, and staging along all four major flyways passing through India (Central Asian Flyway being the most important) ★
- Key threats addressed: Habitat degradation of wetlands, illegal hunting along migratory routes, collision with power lines and structures, light pollution, pesticide poisoning of wetland habitats ★
- Priority actions: Identify and protect Important Bird Areas (IBAs) along flyways, monitor bird populations, reduce illegal killing, control invasive species in wetlands, community-based monitoring programmes ★
- International linkage: India’s CMS obligations, Central Asian Flyway Initiative (adopted CMS COP14, 2024), COP13 Gandhinagar Declaration on ecological connectivity ★
- Update: The CMS COP14 (Samarkand, February 2024) adopted the Central Asian Flyway Initiative with India leading and a coordinating unit to be established in India — this supersedes and expands the 2018–2023 national plan ★
13.7.6 & 13.7.7 · Awareness & Research Bodies
Green Good Deeds & Bombay Natural History Society
★ MoEFCC Initiative · Launched 2018
Green Good Deeds
A people’s movement for environment conservation led by Dr. Harsh Vardhan
Launched: 2018 by then-Environment Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan as a social movement to encourage individuals, institutions, and communities to perform small but meaningful acts for the environment (“Green Good Deeds”). ★
The initiative lists ~51 Green Good Deeds that citizens can perform — from planting trees and avoiding single-use plastic to participating in beach/river clean-ups and installing solar panels. Targeted at the general public, students, and institutions to create mass environmental consciousness. ★
Key deeds include: Planting trees · Adopting public transport · Reducing plastic use · Installing rooftop solar · Participating in clean-up drives · Creating awareness about environment · Reducing food wastage · Conserving water ★
MoEFCC initiative ★
Launched 2018
Dr. Harsh Vardhan ★
~51 deeds
Mass awareness
★ Established 1883 · Mumbai · Oldest natural history NGO
Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS)
India’s premier conservation research organisation · 140+ years of field work
Established: 1883 in Mumbai (Bombay) — one of India’s oldest and most respected scientific research and conservation organisations ★. Published the famous Handbook of Birds of India and Pakistan (Salim Ali and Dillon Ripley) — the definitive reference work on South Asian birds.
Famous members ★: Salim Ali (India’s Birdman, India’s greatest ornithologist) was associated with BNHS for decades. E.P. Gee documented the Hangul through BNHS. ★
Key contributions: Bird ringing programme (migration studies), biodiversity atlases (butterfly, dragonfly, bird atlases of India), documentation of new species, advocacy for major protected areas, journal Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society (JBNHS). ★
Conservation advocacy: BNHS campaigned for creation of Bharatpur (Keoladeo) Bird Sanctuary, Silent Valley NP protection, and many other landmark conservation decisions. ★
Est. 1883 ★
Mumbai
Salim Ali ★
Bird ringing
JBNHS journal ★
Nature Conservation Fund
Master Reference ★
Quick Reference — All National Conservation Efforts
| Initiative | Launched/Est. | Under | Key Feature ★ | UPSC Trap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Project Hangul | 1970s | J&K Govt + IUCN + WWF | Kashmir stag — only surviving Asiatic red deer; 323 in 2025; CR ★ | Dachigam = Kendrapara? No — Dachigam = Srinagar (J&K) ★ |
| IDWH | 2009 | MoEFCC (CSS) | Wildlife habitats OUTSIDE PAs ★ — fills the gap between reserves | Not for PA management — only for OUTSIDE-PA habitats ★ |
| AWBI | 1962 | Min. Fisheries, AH&D | Animal welfare (NOT conservation); PCA Act 1960; Rukmini Devi Arundale ★ | NOT under MoEFCC; NOT NBWL; welfare ≠ conservation ★ |
| NWAP 2017–2031 | 2 Oct 2017 | MoEFCC | First to acknowledge climate change; landscape approach; 5 components, 17 themes ★ | First NWAP = 1983 (not 2017); current = 3rd NWAP ★ |
| Migratory Birds AP | 2018–2023 | MoEFCC | Aligned with CMS; Central Asian Flyway; IBAs ★ | Superseded/expanded by CAF Initiative adopted at CMS COP14 (2024) ★ |
| Green Good Deeds | 2018 | MoEFCC | ~51 deeds; mass public environmental movement; Dr. Harsh Vardhan ★ | NOT a law or scheme — a public awareness initiative ★ |
| BNHS | 1883 | NGO (Mumbai) | India’s oldest natural history society; Salim Ali; bird ringing; JBNHS journal ★ | NOT a government body — an NGO; different from WII (govt body) ★ |
Practice Questions
MCQ Practice Set
MCQ 01 · Easy — AWBI ★
Consider the following statements about the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI):
1. AWBI was established in 1962 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
2. Its first Chairperson was Rukmini Devi Arundale
3. AWBI is a statutory body under MoEFCC focused on conservation of wildlife
4. AWBI consists of 28 members serving three-year terms
1. AWBI was established in 1962 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
2. Its first Chairperson was Rukmini Devi Arundale
3. AWBI is a statutory body under MoEFCC focused on conservation of wildlife
4. AWBI consists of 28 members serving three-year terms
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2 and 3 only
c) 1, 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — AWBI established 1962 under Section 4 of PCA Act 1960. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — Rukmini Devi Arundale (renowned dancer and humanitarian) was AWBI’s first Chairperson. Statement 3: WRONG ★ — Double trap here: (a) AWBI is NOT under MoEFCC — it is under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. (b) AWBI focuses on animal welfare (preventing cruelty, welfare of all animals), NOT conservation of wildlife specifically. Wildlife conservation is NBWL’s domain. Statement 4: CORRECT ★ — 28 members, 3-year terms.
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — AWBI established 1962 under Section 4 of PCA Act 1960. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — Rukmini Devi Arundale (renowned dancer and humanitarian) was AWBI’s first Chairperson. Statement 3: WRONG ★ — Double trap here: (a) AWBI is NOT under MoEFCC — it is under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. (b) AWBI focuses on animal welfare (preventing cruelty, welfare of all animals), NOT conservation of wildlife specifically. Wildlife conservation is NBWL’s domain. Statement 4: CORRECT ★ — 28 members, 3-year terms.
MCQ 02 · Medium — NWAP 2017–2031 ★
The Third National Wildlife Action Plan (2017–2031) is unique in which of the following ways?
1. It is the first NWAP to recognise climate change impact on wildlife
2. It adopts a landscape approach rather than only focusing on protected areas
3. It was the first NWAP — India had no wildlife action plan before 2017
4. It consists of 5 components, 17 themes, 103 conservation actions and 250 projects
1. It is the first NWAP to recognise climate change impact on wildlife
2. It adopts a landscape approach rather than only focusing on protected areas
3. It was the first NWAP — India had no wildlife action plan before 2017
4. It consists of 5 components, 17 themes, 103 conservation actions and 250 projects
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2 and 3 only
c) 1, 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — The 3rd NWAP (2017–2031) is the first to explicitly recognise climate change’s impact on wildlife and integrate mitigation and adaptation measures into wildlife management planning. This is the most important UPSC-testable fact about this plan. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — The landscape approach (conservation across entire landscapes, not just inside PA boundaries) was a new addition in NWAP-3. Statement 3: WRONG ★ — This is the classic UPSC trap! The FIRST NWAP was adopted in 1983, followed by the second (2002–2016), then the third (2017–2031). 2017 = third plan, not first. Statement 4: CORRECT ★ — 5 components, 17 themes, 103 conservation actions, 250 projects is the exact structure of NWAP-3.
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — The 3rd NWAP (2017–2031) is the first to explicitly recognise climate change’s impact on wildlife and integrate mitigation and adaptation measures into wildlife management planning. This is the most important UPSC-testable fact about this plan. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — The landscape approach (conservation across entire landscapes, not just inside PA boundaries) was a new addition in NWAP-3. Statement 3: WRONG ★ — This is the classic UPSC trap! The FIRST NWAP was adopted in 1983, followed by the second (2002–2016), then the third (2017–2031). 2017 = third plan, not first. Statement 4: CORRECT ★ — 5 components, 17 themes, 103 conservation actions, 250 projects is the exact structure of NWAP-3.
MCQ 03 · Hard — Hangul ★
Consider the following statements about the Hangul (Kashmir Stag):
1. It is the only surviving subspecies of Asiatic red deer in India
2. Project Hangul was launched in the 1970s with support from J&K Government, IUCN, and WWF
3. The Hangul is found primarily in Dachigam National Park near Srinagar
4. Its population has recovered significantly — more than 1,000 individuals exist today
1. It is the only surviving subspecies of Asiatic red deer in India
2. Project Hangul was launched in the 1970s with support from J&K Government, IUCN, and WWF
3. The Hangul is found primarily in Dachigam National Park near Srinagar
4. Its population has recovered significantly — more than 1,000 individuals exist today
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1, 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 3 only
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — Hangul = only surviving Asiatic red deer subspecies in India (Cervus hanglu hanglu). Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — Project Hangul (1970s) = J&K Government + IUCN + WWF partnership. Statement 3: CORRECT ★ — Primary habitat = Dachigam National Park (141 km²), 15 km from Srinagar. Statement 4: WRONG ★ — Hangul population in 2025 = only ~323 individuals ★ — still critically low. The recovery to 340 by 1980 (after Project Hangul) was NOT sustained — numbers fell again due to political instability, livestock pressure, and habitat degradation. Current population remains dangerously small and the species is Critically Endangered.
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — Hangul = only surviving Asiatic red deer subspecies in India (Cervus hanglu hanglu). Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — Project Hangul (1970s) = J&K Government + IUCN + WWF partnership. Statement 3: CORRECT ★ — Primary habitat = Dachigam National Park (141 km²), 15 km from Srinagar. Statement 4: WRONG ★ — Hangul population in 2025 = only ~323 individuals ★ — still critically low. The recovery to 340 by 1980 (after Project Hangul) was NOT sustained — numbers fell again due to political instability, livestock pressure, and habitat degradation. Current population remains dangerously small and the species is Critically Endangered.
MCQ 04 · Easy — BNHS ★
The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is associated with which of the following?
1. It was established in 1883
2. It is a government body under MoEFCC
3. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist, was associated with BNHS
4. It publishes the Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society (JBNHS)
1. It was established in 1883
2. It is a government body under MoEFCC
3. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist, was associated with BNHS
4. It publishes the Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society (JBNHS)
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 1, 2 and 3 only
c) 1, 3 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — BNHS established 1883 in Mumbai — one of India’s oldest scientific institutions (140+ years). Statement 2: WRONG ★ — BNHS is an NGO (Non-Governmental Organisation), not a government body. It is funded by membership fees, grants, and donations — NOT under MoEFCC. This distinction is important: WII (Wildlife Institute of India) IS a government body (autonomous institute under MoEFCC); BNHS is an NGO. Statement 3: CORRECT ★ — Salim Ali (India’s Birdman) was closely associated with BNHS. He co-authored the definitive Handbook of Birds of India and Pakistan with S. Dillon Ripley. Statement 4: CORRECT ★ — JBNHS (Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society) is a leading scientific journal on natural history published by BNHS.
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — BNHS established 1883 in Mumbai — one of India’s oldest scientific institutions (140+ years). Statement 2: WRONG ★ — BNHS is an NGO (Non-Governmental Organisation), not a government body. It is funded by membership fees, grants, and donations — NOT under MoEFCC. This distinction is important: WII (Wildlife Institute of India) IS a government body (autonomous institute under MoEFCC); BNHS is an NGO. Statement 3: CORRECT ★ — Salim Ali (India’s Birdman) was closely associated with BNHS. He co-authored the definitive Handbook of Birds of India and Pakistan with S. Dillon Ripley. Statement 4: CORRECT ★ — JBNHS (Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society) is a leading scientific journal on natural history published by BNHS.
MCQ 05 · Medium — IDWH ★
The Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme. What is its primary distinguishing feature?
a) It focuses on conservation of tiger and elephant habitats inside Tiger/Elephant Reserves
b) It funds the management of all National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in India
c) It assists State Governments in protection of wildlife habitats OUTSIDE Protected Areas
d) It provides funding for captive breeding programmes for critically endangered species only
Answer: (c) — IDWH’s defining feature ★
The key distinguishing feature of IDWH is its focus on wildlife habitats OUTSIDE Protected Areas. India’s PA network covers only ~4.88% of geographical area — but wildlife (especially migratory and wide-ranging species) uses the other ~95% too. IDWH fills this gap. Options (a) and (b) describe other schemes — Project Tiger/Elephant and general PA management funding. Option (d) is partially true (IDWH does include recovery programmes) but the primary distinguishing feature is the outside-PA focus. ★
The key distinguishing feature of IDWH is its focus on wildlife habitats OUTSIDE Protected Areas. India’s PA network covers only ~4.88% of geographical area — but wildlife (especially migratory and wide-ranging species) uses the other ~95% too. IDWH fills this gap. Options (a) and (b) describe other schemes — Project Tiger/Elephant and general PA management funding. Option (d) is partially true (IDWH does include recovery programmes) but the primary distinguishing feature is the outside-PA focus. ★
UPSC Previous Year Questions
PYQs — National Conservation Efforts
UPSC Prelims — Direct Pattern ★
PYQ 01 · AWBI vs NBWL
Consider the following statements:
1. Animal Welfare Board of India is a statutory body established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
2. National Board for Wildlife is chaired by the Prime Minister
3. Animal Welfare Board of India advises the government on wildlife conservation
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. Animal Welfare Board of India is a statutory body established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
2. National Board for Wildlife is chaired by the Prime Minister
3. Animal Welfare Board of India advises the government on wildlife conservation
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 only
c) 1 and 3
d) 1, 2 and 3
Official Answer: (b) 2 only — UPSC Prelims direct pattern ★
Statement 1: WRONG ★ — AWBI was established under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (NOT Wildlife Protection Act 1972). The PCA Act 1960 is about animal welfare; WPA 1972 is about wildlife conservation. Two completely different laws. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) is chaired by the Prime Minister of India. Its Standing Committee is chaired by the Environment Minister. NBWL has the power to approve or reject projects in eco-sensitive zones near PAs. Statement 3: WRONG ★ — AWBI advises on animal welfare (preventing cruelty to all animals — domestic, farmed, experimental, wild). It does NOT advise specifically on wildlife conservation policy — that is NBWL’s role under WPA 1972.
Statement 1: WRONG ★ — AWBI was established under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (NOT Wildlife Protection Act 1972). The PCA Act 1960 is about animal welfare; WPA 1972 is about wildlife conservation. Two completely different laws. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) is chaired by the Prime Minister of India. Its Standing Committee is chaired by the Environment Minister. NBWL has the power to approve or reject projects in eco-sensitive zones near PAs. Statement 3: WRONG ★ — AWBI advises on animal welfare (preventing cruelty to all animals — domestic, farmed, experimental, wild). It does NOT advise specifically on wildlife conservation policy — that is NBWL’s role under WPA 1972.
UPSC Prelims 2019 — Direct ★
PYQ 02 · BNHS and Salim Ali
With reference to India’s birds, consider the following statements:
1. Salim Ali was associated with the Bombay Natural History Society
2. Bombay Natural History Society was established in 1883
3. The Journal of Bombay Natural History Society is a governmental publication
1. Salim Ali was associated with the Bombay Natural History Society
2. Bombay Natural History Society was established in 1883
3. The Journal of Bombay Natural History Society is a governmental publication
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 1 and 2 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Official Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only — UPSC Prelims 2019 pattern ★
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — Salim Ali (1896–1987), India’s most celebrated ornithologist (“Birdman of India”), worked closely with BNHS throughout his career. His landmark surveys of birds across India were conducted with BNHS support. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — BNHS was established in 1883 in Mumbai. Statement 3: WRONG ★ — JBNHS is published by BNHS, which is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), not a government body. Therefore JBNHS is NOT a governmental publication. This is the classic distinction trap: BNHS (NGO) vs WII (government autonomous body under MoEFCC).
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — Salim Ali (1896–1987), India’s most celebrated ornithologist (“Birdman of India”), worked closely with BNHS throughout his career. His landmark surveys of birds across India were conducted with BNHS support. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — BNHS was established in 1883 in Mumbai. Statement 3: WRONG ★ — JBNHS is published by BNHS, which is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), not a government body. Therefore JBNHS is NOT a governmental publication. This is the classic distinction trap: BNHS (NGO) vs WII (government autonomous body under MoEFCC).
UPSC Prelims — Pattern ★
PYQ 03 · Hangul — Kashmir Stag
Consider the following statements about the Hangul (Kashmir Stag):
1. It is the state animal of Jammu & Kashmir
2. It is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List
3. Its primary habitat in India is the Kaziranga National Park
4. It is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
1. It is the state animal of Jammu & Kashmir
2. It is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List
3. Its primary habitat in India is the Kaziranga National Park
4. It is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2 and 4 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2 and 4 only
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 4 only
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — Hangul is the state animal of Jammu & Kashmir. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — IUCN: Critically Endangered — only ~323 individuals remain (2025). Statement 3: WRONG ★ — Kaziranga is in Assam and is famous for one-horned rhinos, tigers, and elephants — NOT Hangul. Hangul’s primary habitat is Dachigam National Park near Srinagar, J&K. This is a deliberate geographic trap. Statement 4: CORRECT ★ — Schedule I, WPA 1972 — highest legal protection in India.
Statement 1: CORRECT ★ — Hangul is the state animal of Jammu & Kashmir. Statement 2: CORRECT ★ — IUCN: Critically Endangered — only ~323 individuals remain (2025). Statement 3: WRONG ★ — Kaziranga is in Assam and is famous for one-horned rhinos, tigers, and elephants — NOT Hangul. Hangul’s primary habitat is Dachigam National Park near Srinagar, J&K. This is a deliberate geographic trap. Statement 4: CORRECT ★ — Schedule I, WPA 1972 — highest legal protection in India.
UPSC Prelims — Pattern ★
PYQ 04 · National Wildlife Action Plan
India’s Third National Wildlife Action Plan (2017–2031) is notable for which of the following?
a) It is India’s first wildlife conservation policy framework
b) It focuses exclusively on 22 critically endangered species
c) It is the first NWAP to explicitly recognise climate change impact on wildlife and adopt a landscape approach
d) It replaced the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
Answer: (c) — Two distinguishing features of NWAP-3 ★
(a) WRONG — First NWAP = 1983. This is the Third plan. (b) WRONG — The 22 critically endangered species focus is under IDWH scheme, not NWAP exclusively. (c) CORRECT ★ — The Third NWAP (2017–2031) is uniquely: (1) First to explicitly acknowledge climate change impact on wildlife, and (2) First to adopt a landscape approach to conservation (looking at entire landscapes, not just inside PAs). These are its two signature innovations. (d) WRONG — NWAP is a policy document, not a law. WPA 1972 still exists and was amended (2006, 2022) — not replaced. Released 2 October 2017, 5 components, 17 themes, 103 conservation actions, 250 projects. ★
(a) WRONG — First NWAP = 1983. This is the Third plan. (b) WRONG — The 22 critically endangered species focus is under IDWH scheme, not NWAP exclusively. (c) CORRECT ★ — The Third NWAP (2017–2031) is uniquely: (1) First to explicitly acknowledge climate change impact on wildlife, and (2) First to adopt a landscape approach to conservation (looking at entire landscapes, not just inside PAs). These are its two signature innovations. (d) WRONG — NWAP is a policy document, not a law. WPA 1972 still exists and was amended (2006, 2022) — not replaced. Released 2 October 2017, 5 components, 17 themes, 103 conservation actions, 250 projects. ★
UPSC Prelims — Pattern ★
PYQ 05 · Rukmini Devi Arundale & AWBI
Rukmini Devi Arundale, well known for her contribution to Bharatanatyam, was also associated with which conservation-related body?
a) National Board for Wildlife
b) Wildlife Institute of India
c) Animal Welfare Board of India
d) Bombay Natural History Society
Answer: (c) Animal Welfare Board of India ★
Rukmini Devi Arundale (1904–1986) was a legendary classical dancer, choreographer, and animal rights activist who founded Kalakshetra dance academy. She was instrumental in establishing the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) in 1962 and served as its first Chairperson. She is credited with transforming India’s approach to animal welfare — advocating for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1960) and ensuring its effective implementation through AWBI. She was also a member of the Indian Parliament (Rajya Sabha) — one of India’s earliest and most prominent voices for animal rights. ★
Rukmini Devi Arundale (1904–1986) was a legendary classical dancer, choreographer, and animal rights activist who founded Kalakshetra dance academy. She was instrumental in establishing the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) in 1962 and served as its first Chairperson. She is credited with transforming India’s approach to animal welfare — advocating for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1960) and ensuring its effective implementation through AWBI. She was also a member of the Indian Parliament (Rajya Sabha) — one of India’s earliest and most prominent voices for animal rights. ★
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
Why is the Hangul still Critically Endangered despite 50+ years of Project Hangul?
The Hangul’s conservation story is both inspiring and sobering — it shows the limits of protected area conservation when the threats come from within and around the PA itself. ★
What worked: Project Hangul in the 1970s-80s tripled the population from ~150 to 340 by 1980 — proof that protection works.
Why progress stalled:
1. Political instability (1990s): Kashmir’s armed conflict severely disrupted conservation enforcement. Poaching increased, staff couldn’t patrol, and the population crashed from 340 to ~140 by 1992. A decade of conservation work was undone in a few years.
2. Livestock pressure within Dachigam ★: Upper Dachigam — the traditional Hangul breeding ground — is grazed by Gujjar/Bakarwal shepherds and state-owned cattle. Even the Department of Animal Husbandry grazed cattle in Dagwan (upper Dachigam) — directly competing with Hangul in its breeding zone. Getting cattle removed from inside a National Park has proven politically difficult.
3. Extremely small, isolated population ★: With only 141 km² of habitat and ~300 animals, any bad event (disease outbreak, severe winter, drought) can wipe out 20–30% of the population. The 2025 study (19 years of monitoring data) found that despite protection, the population has been unable to grow significantly — demographic parameters suggest it remains on the brink.
4. Low fawn-female ratio: Human disturbance during mating and calving seasons reduces reproduction. Predator pressure (leopards, bears) on fawns is disproportionately high in a small, isolated population.
For UPSC: Hangul is a case study in why “protected area + legal protection” alone is insufficient — human pressures inside and around PAs, political context, and population biology all matter. ★
What worked: Project Hangul in the 1970s-80s tripled the population from ~150 to 340 by 1980 — proof that protection works.
Why progress stalled:
1. Political instability (1990s): Kashmir’s armed conflict severely disrupted conservation enforcement. Poaching increased, staff couldn’t patrol, and the population crashed from 340 to ~140 by 1992. A decade of conservation work was undone in a few years.
2. Livestock pressure within Dachigam ★: Upper Dachigam — the traditional Hangul breeding ground — is grazed by Gujjar/Bakarwal shepherds and state-owned cattle. Even the Department of Animal Husbandry grazed cattle in Dagwan (upper Dachigam) — directly competing with Hangul in its breeding zone. Getting cattle removed from inside a National Park has proven politically difficult.
3. Extremely small, isolated population ★: With only 141 km² of habitat and ~300 animals, any bad event (disease outbreak, severe winter, drought) can wipe out 20–30% of the population. The 2025 study (19 years of monitoring data) found that despite protection, the population has been unable to grow significantly — demographic parameters suggest it remains on the brink.
4. Low fawn-female ratio: Human disturbance during mating and calving seasons reduces reproduction. Predator pressure (leopards, bears) on fawns is disproportionately high in a small, isolated population.
For UPSC: Hangul is a case study in why “protected area + legal protection” alone is insufficient — human pressures inside and around PAs, political context, and population biology all matter. ★
What is the difference between the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) and the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)?
This is one of UPSC’s favourite trick questions because both involve “animals” and “welfare/wildlife” in their names. The differences are fundamental: ★
Simple memory: NBWL = PM chairs it, WPA 1972, MoEFCC, conservation decisions. AWBI = welfare (not conservation), PCA 1960, Rukmini Devi, Fisheries Ministry. ★
| Feature | NBWL | AWBI |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | National Board for Wildlife | Animal Welfare Board of India |
| Established | WPA 1972 (restructured 2003) | 1962, PCA Act 1960 ★ |
| Focus | Conservation of wild animals + habitats | Welfare of all animals (domestic + wild) ★ |
| Chaired by | Prime Minister ★ | Chairperson (appointed by govt) |
| Ministry | MoEFCC | Min. Fisheries, AH&D ★ |
| Key power | Approves/rejects projects in eco-sensitive zones ★ | Advises on animal welfare laws; grants to AWOs |
Simple memory: NBWL = PM chairs it, WPA 1972, MoEFCC, conservation decisions. AWBI = welfare (not conservation), PCA 1960, Rukmini Devi, Fisheries Ministry. ★
What makes NWAP-3 (2017–2031) different from the previous two plans?
The Third National Wildlife Action Plan has three major innovations that distinguish it from NWAP-1 (1983) and NWAP-2 (2002-2016): ★
1. Climate Change Integration ★ — The biggest novelty: For the first time, India explicitly acknowledged that climate change is a threat to wildlife and made it a central component of wildlife planning. The plan mandates: vulnerability assessments of all PAs to climate change, long-term monitoring of habitat shifts (how forest types will change with warming), research on adaptation (how species and ecosystems can be helped to adapt), and integration of Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) into all PA management plans. Previous plans barely mentioned climate change.
2. Landscape Approach ★: NWAP-1 and NWAP-2 were primarily PA-centric — protect the reserves. NWAP-3 recognises that India’s wildlife exists in a landscape mosaic where PAs are islands within a sea of human-dominated land. It mandates: delineation of key landscapes (beyond PA boundaries), management of wildlife corridors, integration of wildlife planning with other land-use planning (agriculture, infrastructure, revenue forests), and community participation in corridor management.
3. Human-Wildlife Conflict ★: Rising HWC is explicitly addressed as a priority. The plan warns against unnecessary relocation of either animals or people, and emphasises research-based, participatory approaches to conflict mitigation — rather than the traditional “fence and patrol” model.
For UPSC: If asked what is unique about NWAP-3, the answer is: climate change integration + landscape approach. Both are firsts. ★
1. Climate Change Integration ★ — The biggest novelty: For the first time, India explicitly acknowledged that climate change is a threat to wildlife and made it a central component of wildlife planning. The plan mandates: vulnerability assessments of all PAs to climate change, long-term monitoring of habitat shifts (how forest types will change with warming), research on adaptation (how species and ecosystems can be helped to adapt), and integration of Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) into all PA management plans. Previous plans barely mentioned climate change.
2. Landscape Approach ★: NWAP-1 and NWAP-2 were primarily PA-centric — protect the reserves. NWAP-3 recognises that India’s wildlife exists in a landscape mosaic where PAs are islands within a sea of human-dominated land. It mandates: delineation of key landscapes (beyond PA boundaries), management of wildlife corridors, integration of wildlife planning with other land-use planning (agriculture, infrastructure, revenue forests), and community participation in corridor management.
3. Human-Wildlife Conflict ★: Rising HWC is explicitly addressed as a priority. The plan warns against unnecessary relocation of either animals or people, and emphasises research-based, participatory approaches to conflict mitigation — rather than the traditional “fence and patrol” model.
For UPSC: If asked what is unique about NWAP-3, the answer is: climate change integration + landscape approach. Both are firsts. ★
