BiodiversityOur Heritage, Our Wealth, Our Responsibility Biodiversity Biodiversity Our Heritage, Our Wealth, Our Responsibility Text of the Exhibition Panels a Minister of State (Independent Charge) Environment & Forests Government of India New Delhi Jayanthi Natarajan Preface Land, Water, Air and life are intricately woven. The prosperity of a nation is dependent on maintaining a fine balance between development and the health of ecosystems. With growing global population, forests and associated ecosystems play an increasingly important role in meeting the demand for food, fodder, fuel and sustain the livelihoods of the millions through myriad ecosystem services. At the local level, the link between people and the ecosystem is vital, especially in times of stress. The Science Express - Biodiversity Special (SEBS) train is a special gift to the people of the country. It is through this train that the rich biodiversity heritage of the country can be shared widely, reaching school students, the youth and the general masses alike. It is estimated that the SEBS will reach out to over three million people as it travels to the far reaches of the country, halting at more than 100 stations over two years, starting from 5th June 2012. The SEBS is truly 'Biodiversity on Wheels'. I invite each of you to experience the rich natural heritage, and pledge to take affirmative action to cherish, nurture and protect our rich biodiversity heritage. It is with great pride and optimism; I dedicate this exhibition to the people, especially the children of India. 'Prakriti Rakshati Rakshita” - Nature protects if she is protected. Jayanthi Natarajan b c Contents 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Biodiversity Trans-Himalaya and Himalaya The Gangetic Plain North East India The Indian Desert and The Semi-arid Zone Western Ghats The Deccan Peninsula The Coasts and Islands Acknowledgments Note and Schedule on Science Express Biodiversity Special 1 21 39 52 71 91 117 139 156 166 d e . Biodiversity Biodiversity Track it. and do it all Climb hills. Snow leopard. Celebrate the seeds and cereals upon which we feast With Gonds. Meet a Tahr. Wander with shepherds and their woolly flocks Up snowy mountains. Travel across a magical land Of mountains and valleys. Biodiversity Biodiversity Experience it. down valleys. Colours and patterns.Mamata Pandya CEE Biodiversity Biodiversity Appreciate it. while some lost and found Enter a wonderful world where discoveries abound. taste it. a monitor. enjoy it. Buffaloes. heal with it. grow it. functions and form To survive and thrive. Biodiversity Biodiversity See it. geese and flamingos pink. crocs and tigers in the mangrove tangle. and a hornbill or two! Colourful frogs that croak and call Snakes and snails that slither and crawl. even tigers and lions roar in this land To the lakes come birds. yak and double-humped camels The Himalayan cold desert is home to these mammals. bamboo and grasses many more . Biodiversity Biodiversity Celebrate it. Shining blue lakes in the rugged landscape Welcome winged visitors many coloured and shaped. flowers. Vibrant mosaic of languages and faces Music. and sheep galore. plateau and forest. microbes and trees. weave with it. live with it. enjoy it! Where the mighty Ganga flows River dolphins swim and gharials are found Proud tigers prowl and deer abound. sail rivers. and their dancing feet. A plentitude of plants for food and health And multitude of people add to the wealth. In forests and fields deserts and seas Animals and crops. All this and more you experience and savour As the mighty Himalaya you explore and discover. a Toda. a nicobar pigeon preen. delight in it! Biodiversity Biodiversity It's all about Life and Variety. and over rocks. Feathery ferns. use it! Discover that deserts are dry but alive Their dwellers have special tricks to survive Store water. many more than you think Cranes. feel it! The North East is truly a garden of Eden Full of priceless treasures. Biodiversity Biodiversity Its all about Life and Variety. cows. dance and feasts of many races. pelicans. adapt and transform. study it! Walk through the Western Ghats. shed leaves or burrow in the sand. Bhils and Warli. Meet clown fish and anemone in a coral jungle Crabs. protect it. eat it! Take a walk along a sandy shore Dive into the sea to further explore. Biodiversity Biodiversity Plant it. cook it. share it. gasp at a thundering waterfall. Sail to the islands. plateaus and sand. in waters blue and green See a megapode. Here on the wonderful Biodiversity Express Explore and discover and experience afresh. Biodiversity Biodiversity Learn from it. conserve it! f g . smell it. The fertile plains with bounteous yields From forests and farmlands and fields. Why. Biodiversity Biodiversity Treasure it. exchange it. The Deccan has on offer all of the best Highlands and grasslands. Biodiversity Biodiversity It’s all about Life and Variety. bright orchids. Some gone forever. bamboos tall Where rhinos roam and Hoolock Gibbons call. and a Tiger too Jumbos in jungles.Biodiversity ki rail gaadi Rail gaadi Rail gaadi Let's take a trip on a very special train Experience a journey you may not take again. goats. Trees. many still hidden. ” Article 51 A The Constitution of India 1 h . Our Responsibility “It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including forests. lakes. Our Wealth. rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures.BIODIVERSITY Biodiversity Our Heritage. five biomes. all humans are one species but no two humans are genetically identical. tigers. horses. communities and ecosystems (complexes of species and their physical environments). are all different species. communities and ecosystems. l represents two realms. genetic (the variety of genetic information within a species). 1. l has 16 major forest types. l is one of the eight centres of origin and diversity of crop plants. l is one of the 17 mega-diversity countries in the world. The total forest cover of the country is over 23% of its geographical area. species (the variety of species). l has two global biodiversity hotspots (Eastern Himalaya. ten biogeographic zones. Think ! Without Variety There Would Be No Life India: One of the richest countries in the world! Why? The country l harbours 8% of the world's biodiversity on just 2% of the Earth's surface. 2 3 . a small area may hold more diversity than a large one. rice. 2. 200 animal species What Exactly is Biodiversity? l the variety among life forms l describes not only the number but also types and variety of l i v i n g things Biodiversity is usually described at 3 levels: genetic. species.g. mango. l includes wettest to driest regions of earth. Western Ghats). e. e.BIODIVERSITY BIO = LIFE DIVERSITY = VARIETY India is home to over 7% of the world's Animal Diversity More than 91.g. cold to hot extremes. 3. l All poultry breeds of India have descended from one wild l India is one of the 8 centres of origin of cultivated Pepper: 500 varieties!! Mango plants in the ancestor–Red Junglefowl.India harbours 11% of the world's plant diversity. Look at the amazing endemism in India 9% of India's fish species. These include: l Angiosperms 17. Over 166 species of crops originated here. l Special Medicinal Plants Conservation Areas (MPCAs) have been established in several states. 61% of amphibians.000 varieties There is a great variety among domesticated animals. 11. India has over 45. l Home to 320 species of wild relatives of cultivated crops.500 plant species.527 species l Gymnosperms 67 species l Pteridophytes 1200 species l Bryophytes 2500 species l Algae 7175 species Spiny-tailed Lizard Malabar Whistling Thrush They are all Endemic to India! Nilgiri Laughing Thrush Konkan Pinda Asiatic Lion Endemic species are species occurring in only specific areas or regions and found nowhere else in the world. What Do these have in Common? Law’s Balsam Wild Ass Andaman Day Gecko Gharial Blackbuck Balloon Frog formulations – a major source of livelihood for millions. Rice: 50.000 varieties Mango: 1. The Zebu motif is found on seals of the Indus Valley civilization.000 varieties Sorghum: 5. 14% of birds. there are 14500 species of fungi and 2233 species of lichens. Camel: 8 breeds 4 Black Paper 5 . In addition. too! l All the world's buffalo breeds are found in India. and 9% of mammals are endemic.000 herbal l All cow breeds of India have descended from one Indian ancestor–Zebu. Cow: 30 breeds world. 058 species of plants are endemic to India. 47% of reptiles. l 8000 species of medicinal plants find use in 50. l Lack of awareness and loss of traditional knowledge. unregulated trade. Do you know where these are found? Press the button to find out! As you go through this book you will learn more about these zones. greed and ignorance Trans-Himalaya l Degradation and loss of habitats due to some development compulsions. North-East Semi-Arid l Pollution. hybrid crops and monoculture. l Implementation difficulties with regard to Islands legal provisions and Islands conservation programmes. Others are more widely spread. poaching. l Unsustainable use of natural resources.In Which Biogeographic Zones are these found? India has ten biogeographic zones. Some species are found in only one of these. Why are we cutting the branch we are sitting on? Need. l Over-exploitation. Parthenium. Himalaya Deserts Gangetic Plains Prosopis. l Introduction of exotic and invasive species like Lantana. l Effects of climate change. and that too in a specific location. l Systems and policies dictated by need for rapid economic Coasts development. 6 7 . over-consumption. Deccan Peninsula A3 l Some unsound agricultural and forestry practices like excessive use Western Ghats of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. l Scientific: huge potential for scientific study. This is the highest risk category assigned for a wild species.Why Are We Losing Biodiversity? Disappearing Species One species becomes extinct from this planet every 20 minutes. education: We enjoy being out in nature. For example. medicine. l Basis for recreation. A very small fraction of diversity mapped or studied. Endangered: a population of organisms which is at risk of becoming extinct because it is either few in numbers. or threatened by changing environmental or predation parameters. birds and amphibians. and biodiversity is still providing us with answers to many of our unsolved questions. before any medicinal use or other important features can be assessed. 52 per cent of known insects.” World Conservation Union Crises!! l Pollinator decline due to pesticides and habitat loss has been affecting crop production worldwide! l Poisoning by the veterinary drug Diclofenac has caused a 92% decline in vulture populations across India! l Interbreeding of wild varieties of crops or native cattle breeds with hybrids leads to genetic loss Why is Biodiversity Important? l Ecosystem and ecological values: Biodiversity provides us food security. water recharge. The rate of extinction before the arrival of humans was no more than approximately one species per year. Indian Systems of Medicine use nearly 8000 wild species. music and arts. It is likely that some species will become extinct before they are even discovered. festivals. unless the circumstances threatening its survival improve. and many other services for human survival. Communities across the country have traditional practices linked to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. Lion-tailed Macaque (Endangered) 8 humans have learned a lot from other species and natural phenomena.!! Vulnerable: a species which is likely to become Endangered in the near future. Critically Endangered: means that a species has declined or will decline. or even known. fibre. climate regulation. over 25% of all drugs come from p l a n t s . etc. l Cultural and aesthetic values: deeply ingrained in our culture. A number of species are being lost even before they are known to science. and reflecting respect for nature. by 80% in numbers within three generations. rituals. energy. 9 . the l Economic and scientific values: food. and 73 per cent of known flowering plants are in danger along with many mammals. “51 per cent of known reptiles. Species Under Threat Going… Going…Gone…. UNESCO-Designated Sites: UNESCO Natural Heritage Site: these are clearly defined natural sites of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science.04 < 0. The main objective of Project Tiger is to ensure a viable population of tiger in India.Protected Areas (for In-situ conservation) A Protected Area is a clearly defined geographic space. Manas WLS. extraction. or a combination of these. commercial activities) are not allowed.21 3. dedicated and managed.01 4. with a view to preservation of natural and cultural heritage. identified in collaboration with Bird Life International. Important Bird Areas: There are 465 sites of importance as crucial bird habitats.3 1.50 1160 20. fishing. some activities allowed with special permits. residences. it is illegal to interfere in anyway with the natural life there. through legal or other effective means. National Park (NP): A tract of land declared the nation's property by the Central Government. Hunting and fishing are prohibited. km) % coverage India has some more specially designated conservation areas: Tiger Reserves: 41 sanctuaries and national parks are specially protected under National Tiger Conservation Authority (previously Project Tiger).11 119930. to achieve long-term conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values. conservation (of threatened species) or natural beauty. Elephant Reserves: 25 Elephant Reserves under Project Elephant. 41 Tiger Reserves are specially protected under the National Tiger Conservation Authority. recognized.9 Species Conservation Initiatives of Government of India Project Tiger Project Tiger Scheme has been under implementation since 1973. India has 5 such sites: Kaziranga NP. Keoladeo NP. Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS): An area designated usually by a State Government. and where human pressures (hunting.65 0. and Sundarbans NP. Ramsar Sites: Under the Ramsar Convention (an international treaty for protecting wetland habitats) 25 areas have been identified. Protected Area Network Categories Number Area (sq. Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers NP. India currently has 17 BRs. where like in a National Park. Community Reserves: These areas are being protected through the joint efforts of local communities and State Governments. Biosphere Reserves: Special sites for natural and cultural landscapes extending over large area of land or water/sea ecosystems. National Parks Wildlife Sanctuaries Conservation Reserves Community Reserves Total Protected Areas 102 515 47 4 665 39888. Several categories of Protected Areas exist in India.69 160999. 10 11 . ” Article 48 A The Constitution of India Some National Laws and Regulations: l Indian Forest Act 1927 l Wild Life Protection Act 1972 l Forest Conservation Act 1980 Orchidarium ex-situ Conservation Includes maintaining genetic germplasm in seed banks. Action Plan for Vulture Conservation. primarily outside the natural habitats of a species. In addition. Sikkim. and Arunachal Pradesh. Uttarakhand. lion. There are 25 Elephant Reserves under Project Elephant. Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme. Plants l Green channel projects in Botanic Garden of Indian Republic l Maritime Zones Acts l Environmental Protection Act 1986 l Fisheries Act 1897 & 1984 l Biodiversity Act 2002 Red Panda conservation (BGIR) for endangered plant species l Lead Garden project for ex-situ conservation of endemic plants in each phyto-geographic zone 12 13 . l Vulture Conservation Breeding Centres l Conservation of traditional farming practices. The project is operational in five Himalayan States viz. These include: One Horned Rhinoceros Conservation programme. Policy and Legal Framework “The State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country. etc. wisdom. Gharial Recovery Action Plan. to address issues of mananimal conflict. vulture. zoos. and welfare of domesticated elephants. gene banks. Himachal Pradesh.Project Snow Leopard Project Snow Leopard is designed for all biologically important habitats within the snow leopard's range. blackbuck. Jammu & Kashmir. the zoos and botanical gardens play an important role in ex-situ species conservation. their habitat and corridors. Ganges River Dolphin Conservation Plan. captive breeding sites. Animals l Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to secure better management of zoos l National facility “Laboratory for Conservation of Endangered Species – LaCONES” for conservation of e n d a n g e r e d a n i m a l species like tiger. rites. rituals. There are also several other programmes for the conservation of different species. Project Elephant Project Elephant was launched in 1992. The objectives are to protect elephants. The Cartagena Protocol aims at reducing the potential adverse effects of biotechnology on biodiversity. to address common issues. to implement rules.UN Commission on Sustainable Development (UNCSD) .UN Convention on Law of the Seas (UNCLOS) 14 . often trans-boundary. the threat to species and ecosystems has never been so great as it is today. The CBD was inspired by the world community's growing commitment to sustainable development. The Convention was opened for signature on 5 June 1992 at the UN Conference on Environment and Development (the Rio "Earth Summit").signed during 1992 Rio UNCED l UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) l UN Convention on Combating Desertification (UNCCD) Other international agreements include: . Address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss mainstreaming biodiversity across government and society by 15 –signed 1971 l World Heritage Convention – since 1972: Biodiversity needs to be seen as global heritage-India ratified it in 1977 l Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) of Wild Flora & Fauna – India ratified it in 1976 l Bonn Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS)- India ratified it in 1979 l Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) .International Conventions and Treaties A number of countries reach multi-party agreements to work together. the sustainable use of its components. as quite often answers to local problems may lie in resources elsewhere. and support to innovation by local people. There is a growing recognition that biodiversity is a global asset of tremendous value to present and future generations. The Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 and its following Aichi Targets represent the world's commitment to reduce biodiversity loss: A. the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. They all stand to benefit from such cooperation. It entered into force on 29 December 1993. It represents a step forward in the conservation of biodiversity. Goals and Targets have been adopted and named after the cities where the different meetings were held. Species extinction caused by human activities continues at an alarming rate. and has 193 Parties including 168 signatory countries. The Nagoya Protocol provides a framework for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. At the same time. l Ramsar Convention (on Wetlands of International Importance) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) The CBD is an international treaty to sustain the rich diversity of life on Earth. India is party to several Conventions and Treaties. A number of Protocols.International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources (ITPGR) . and essential for economic and social development. Enhance implementation through participatory knowledge management and capacity building planning. Improve the status of biodiversity by safeguarding ecosystems. seed banks. NGOs. national initiatives by Government. and a number of organizations and bodies are engaged in biodiversity conservation. species and genetic diversity D.B. education and awareness. underprivileged? Meeting the Challenges Government of India is doing this through a number of strategies. Enhance the benefits to all from biodiversity and ecosystem services E. state. Local. and communities themselves are all working towards conserving this magnificent heritage. Fishery Survey of India (FSI) Forest Survey of India (FSI) Govind Ballabh Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development (GBPIHED) Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM) National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board (NAEB) National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) Protecting Biodiversity Challenges l How to ensure sustainable use of biological resources (using biodiversity without leading to its long-term decline)? l How to ensure equity in conservation and use. Reduce the direct pressures on biodiversity and promote sustainable use C. both in situ (within the natural habitats) and ex situ (in special sites such as zoos. specially for the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) National Institute of Animal Welfare (NIAW) National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) National Zoological Park (NZP) Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) Wildlife Institute of India (WII) Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) India is perhaps as rich in its initiatives to conserve biodiversity as its biodiversity itself. Only a few examples are mentioned for each of the biogeographic zones. research. Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) Botanical Survey of India (BSI) Central Zoo Authority (CZA) Centres of Excellence (COEs) 16 17 . The Ministry of Environment & Forests. even labs). I make a very important vitamin . I'm Ready Rhizo. With waste mountains eclipsing our towns and cities you just can't do without me. I'm the Bold Blue Mold. I am the Sunny Spiro. Without me there'll be great harm since earth will become very very warm.K2 without which you feel weak and have no resistance. People think I am pungent but I give plenty of B vitamins. Mucor (Rhizomucor pusillus) Although I look fluffy. I love to hog sunlight. the 21st century hero. Bacteriophage T4 (Captain Phago) We may be 100 times smaller than a bacterium but we give the power to the Ganga. Blue mold (Penicillium notatum) They say I spoil food. We are the magicians with a wand that injects toxins into bad bugs and make them vanish to restore rivers to pristinity. your source of the new fuel 'ethanol' in cars. I am the Wily Wild Yeast. You'll have a rough ride without me. I'm the great King Coli. I also manufacture antibiotic Penicillin which is used as an important medicine in many diseases. the building blocks of proteins for the landlord and all the land. what a pity! I am the Mighty Mucor. who keeps your gut healthy and drives away nasty bugs? It's me. I pay substantial rent by fixing nitrogen. I say I'm the great composter. Rhizobium (Rhizobium leguminosarum) Although I live in a rented house – root nodules of leguminous plants. say all doctors . I grow so fast that I make all nasty bugs outcast. Wild Yeast (Saccharomyces paradoxus) I get under the urad dal's skin and secretly make the idli batter rise. I can break down hard stuff like wood and cardboard. trap carbon and drive away climate change blues. bulgaricus) Do you know who makes yummy dahi and paneer.Microbes Lactobacillus (Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. 18 19 . it's me!! Longy Lacto. E-coli (Escherichia coli K-12) I am the king of the gut. I am not 'all mass and no substance'. I am not a 'delicate darling'. Spirogyra (Spirogyra hyalina) I am the cheerful green hero who floats happily by in fresh water lakes and ponds. converting the sea into high mountains. The areas set aside for protection and conservation in the Region include: l 20 National Parks l 74 Wildlife Sanctuaries l 5 Biosphere Reserves l 36 Conservation Reserves l 5 Snow Leopard Conservation Landscapes Trans-Himalaya Himalaya Did You Know? Where the Himalaya stands today was once the Tethys Sea 70 million years ago. The high altitude landscape comprises varied ecosystems and harbours rich biodiversity. The collision of the IndoAustralian and Eurasian tectonic plates led to a rise of land mass.TRANS-HIMALAYA AND HIMALAYA Abode of Snow Unique Vital Fragile The Trans-Himalaya and the Himalaya together occupy nearly 11 per cent of India's total land surface. fragile and threatened life-support systems on the earth. making this region vulnerable to natural hazards 21 20 . The tectonic plates are still moving. This region is also one of the most important. The seemingly inhospitable terrain has given rise to a variety of flora. Malari. The temperature drops to as low as −50 degree C in some places. Tibetan antelope. and hence a diversity of ecosystems. Uttarakhand and the Tso Lhamu Gurudogmar plateau of Sikkim. l Animals of economic importance include pashmina (changra) Frozen Desert Where high Himalayan mountains block rain clouds lie the cold deserts. Bare but not Barren Cold deserts have remarkable ecological and biological diversity. donkeys. l There are a variety of habitat types across various altitude levels. Gujjar and Gaddi herdsmen and nomadism followed by the Changpa tribe are important practices in cold deserts. parts of Kinnaur and Pangi It is the only region in the world where both desert and arctic conditions are found. Zanskar and Shayok. l Other cold deserts include Lahaul Spiti. Mana and the Nelang regions in Garhwal. 22 goats.Trans-Himalaya Trans-Himalaya is the northern-most area of India. l Animals have adapted to the extreme and difficult climatic conditions. This includes the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir and LahaulSpiti region of Himachal Pradesh. l The Snow Leopard is the top predator found in cold deserts. Snow-clad peaks. It falls in the rain shadow regions immediately north of the Himalaya. l Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir is the largest cold desert in India covering 80 per cent of the trans-Himalayan tract. The main source of water is snow melt. Bharal. some parts of Garhwal. Black-necked crane and Barheaded goose are some characteristic animals of this region. changthangi sheep. Marmots. chumurti horses.The plant growth season is only two to three months. Snow leopard. and double-humped camels. l Seasonal migration by Bakarwal. three Wildlife Sanctuaries and one Biosphere Reserve in this region. l The annual precipitation is between 500 and 1000 mm. very small pockets of Niti. high radiation and intense cold. mainly in winter. 23 . area in Himachal Pradesh. Wooly hare. arid climatic conditions. There are two National Parks. Wolf. Wild yak. and a small part of Sikkim. indigenous varieties and breeds. Sea Buckthorn This region forms the catchment of three major rivers--Indus with its major tributaries. Tibetan sheep. yaks. l The predominantly herbaceous and grassy vegetation is highly diverse and supports many rare and endemic species. seasonal marshlands and high-altitude lakes are characteristic features. Uttarakhand. Wild ass. and Sutluj – each with its tributaries. which are highly adapted to the harsh conditions. Chenab. marked by scanty rainfall. Double-humped Camel l These regions are marked by severe. are uplifted glacial debris. peat lands. control over climate and river flow. l These wetlands are crucial for biodiversity. HP l Sechu Tuan Nala. Common Pochard 24 . l They comprise lakes. Saving Wetlands Sky-High! This is a regional initiative of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) to mobilise governments. l Birds migrate for various reasons such as availability of food and l Pin Valley National Park. The Himalaya stretches in an arc over 2. Bhutan and China. hydropower generation. l The migratory birds face several threats: habitat loss. cultural and spiritual significance for local communities. Himachal Pradesh (HP) l Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. l Pasturelands around the wetlands provide grazing grounds for Himalayan Griffon Tufted Duck Himalaya The Indian Himalayan Region occupies a special place in the mountain ecosystems of the world. hunting. sustainable economic growth. animals and medicinal plants. or the foothills. destruction Yellowbilled Magpie When It Thaws. communities and local stakeholders towards conservation of the Himalayan High Altitude Wetlands which are beyond national and political boundaries.500 km from Nanga Parbat in the West to Namche Barwa in the East. Often fed by glaciers or snow from the surrounding mountains. of breeding and nesting sites. 25 livestock.Major biodiversity conservation areas in the Trans-Himalaya are: l Hemis High Altitude National Park. They are home to several endemic species of birds. marshes. This expanse has a great variation in biodiversity as well as topography. The initiative includes India. l There are over 500 HAWs in central and western Himalaya alone. wet grasslands. l They are of immense livelihood. Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) l Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary. Pintail Duck streams and rivers. unsustainable tourism. irrigation and fisheries. safe nesting and breeding locations. as well as weak trans-boundary conservation efforts. air and water pollution. HP water. The Shivalik ranges. Nepal. Pakistan. Sparkle The HAW s High Altitude Wetlands (HAWs) are unique water bodies found at altitudes of over 3000 m. J&K l Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. J&K Barheaded Geese Welcome to Winged Visitors The Indian Himalaya is a popular destination for migratory birds. climatic conditions and protection. the water bodies remain largely frozen during the winter months. transport. l Over 1. l Today. scrubby forests: Shiwaliks Grasslands. The high ranges of the Himalaya stop the northward movement of monsoon clouds that bring rain to the Indian sub-continent. Himalayan Tahr.000 m in the form of undulating hills. bhojpatra and pipal are found here. of which 12 are endemic. fauna which show several behavioural and physiological adaptations. l Endemic species such as Himalayan May Apple and Himalayan Yew are said to have anti-cancer properties. healthcare and food for millions. brahmakamal. Greater Himalaya A Profusion of Plants The region supports nearly 50% of the total flowering plants of India. sub-tropical broadleaved forests. endangered or critically endangered. goats and equids (hoofed animals such as horses). altitude and latitude. l About 1000 out of the 1300 bird species of India occur in the Blue Sheep Himalaya. shrublands.665 endemic species are represented. desert steppe: Trans-Himalayas Montane grasslands. deciduous and evergreen forests: BhabarTerai Tract 26 The himalayan mountain system is recognized as a centre of origin and evolution of many living forms. rudraksha. A majority of these breed in the region. Forest types are determined by rainfall regime. including 31 endemic species. including Kashmir Markhor.700 species of medicinal and aromatic plants provide Across the Greater Himalaya is the region referred to as Trans-Himalaya. or Hangul.440 species of plants. l About 155 sacred plants including deodar. Kashmir Red Deer. The Greater Himalaya range consists mainly of sedimentary rocks with patches of igneous (solidified from lava) rock formations. (all the plant groups). Most of this area is covered with huge glaciers and peaks. of which about 4. alpine shrubs. l Harbours the largest diversity of domestic and wild relatives of sheep. l Is home to almost 300 species of mammals. livelihood. several of these are vulnerable. l Represents 18. with a few semiarid and occasional arid valleys. meadows: Greater Himalayas Temperate broadleaved and mixed forests: Lesser Himalayas Sub-tropical pine forests. 27 . sustaining the lives and livelihoods of millions of people. cut by flowing torrents and rivers. The Himalaya forms the watershed for most of the rivers flowing in northern India. l 87 species of Rhododendron and 26 species of Oak grow in the forests. The diverse terrains and altitude gradients harbour a rich variety of flora.Middle Himalaya reaches altitudes up to 3. There is also a great deal of cultural and ethnic diversity. Major forest types Thorn scrub. savannas. Brahmakamal At Home in the Himalaya Forests: From Peaks to Plains There is great variety in forests in this region. harsh. poaching. l Over 925 out of the 1501 species of Indian butterflies are found in declared as World Heritage Site by UNESCO under the Man and Biosphere (MAB) programme in 2004. porters. Mountain people rely heavily on natural resources and make optimum use of nature's bounty. and Brahmaputra. While agriculture and animal husbandry are the primary occupations. 30 of nearly 270 species are endemic. l Of around 105 species of amphibians. together with Nanda Devi Park. Silene gangotriana Western and North Western Himalaya. has been designated as Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. pollution. inhabit the Himalaya. over 40 are endemic. over 10 are endemic and 225 are near endemic. tailless tropical amphibians) are found here. Its rich biodiversity is yet to be entirely documented. this valley. the Indus. Over 55 per cent of the species in the Reserve are native to Himalaya. trekking.Hop. fodder and timber. Livestock rearing has been the backbone of the local economy. Located in Uttarakhand Himalaya. wildlife trade. Fly. Two species of caecilians (legless. Under Threat Threats to Himalayan and Trans-Himalayan fauna include habitat loss and degradation. food. logging. various non farm-based livelihood practices include: l Tourism and pilgrimage-related services – tour guide. Banded bent-toed gecko Ganga. Several of the species were identified by scientists of Botanical Survey of India. climate change and unsustainable harvesting for firewood. l Nearly 175 species of reptiles have been documented. Snow Leopard (EN) Valley of Flowers The Valley of Flowers is renowned for its meadows of rare. over-fishing. of which nearly 50 are endemic. medicinal plants) 29 Impatiens devendrae 28 . native and endemic alpine flowers. and outstanding natural beauty. The new discoveries have not yet been given common names. various livelihood activities emerge from one another. Swim in the Himalaya The Himalayan mountain system is recognized as a centre of origin and evolution of many living forms. summer and winter sports etc. Products or by-products are never wasted and thus. l Collection of non-timber forest produce (fodder.The Biosphere Reserve was religious services. New Discoveries Despite large tracts being remote. l Fish species from three major drainage systems. human-animal conflict. Mountains and People Since time immemorial local people have used forests and pastures in this region for multiple uses and values. new floral species are constantly being discovered in the region. and inaccessible for most part of the year. mountaineering. Pastoralists migrate from lower reaches to alpine pastures every summer along with herds of goat and sheep. carpets. baskets. indigenous seeds. there is presence of different breeds of sheep. LIVESTOCK AND LIVELIHOOD Livestock rearing is an integral part of livelihood in rural areas. protects farmers from losses due to crop failures. inadequate fodder growth. mules. wool and food. and provides good quality fodder for domestic animals. horses. shortage of water. goats. shortened grazing periods. years to avoid in-breeding) l Root spreading (digging soil to facilitate horizontal spread of roots) l Apricot grafting (grafting sweet apricot on bitter. and root l Better soil fertility with animal bones. l This helps maintain ecological balance. l In spite of hardships of high altitudes. l Threats l Crop sowing prioritization (sowing crops in a certain sequence) l Seed selection (collecting seeds from different villages every 3-4 to domestic animals include shrinkage of grazing pastures. l A community of cereals. l Nomadic pastoralism is a common practice of some mountain tribes. AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES Environmental. poly greenhouse cultivation l Handicrafts and handloom such as wooden furniture. garments. lentils. Agricultural patterns in the Himalaya differ according to geographic zones. l Ownership of cattle ensures economic stability and sustainable rattan / bamboo products. oilseeds. pigs and poultry in this region. creepers. vegetables. Eastern Himalaya with high rainfall is a major producer of potato. manure. livestock. 31 30 . a region of low rainfall. biological and socio-cultural diversity of the Himalaya has resulted in unique traditional varieties of crops. grows mainly cereals and fruits. mushroom cultivation. and agro-pastoral practices. yaks. wild apricot) Foxtail Millet : Finger Millet A rare indigenous crop in Kedarnath Valley BARAHNAJA An age old agricultural practice of intercropping of twelve or more compatible mix of crops using native. Western Himalaya. ropes. souvenirs etc. Common Millet Amaranth vegetables grown together on the same terraced fields in the kharif or monsoon season. enhances food and nutritional security. Some traditional agricultural practices: l Mixed cropping l Agro-forestry l Rotational cropping Agroforestry farming. millet. l Livestock provide draught power. heavy snowfall and temperate conditions. poor health of animals due to changing temperatures and parasitic infections.l Apiculture. sugarcane. pulses and vegetables. HP. this medium-sized cat is an ideal flagship for conservation efforts in the cold. l MPCAs are managed departments. Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) are working to conserve the 33 Medicinal Plants (GSMP). cultivation and regeneration of MAPs and GSMPs in their natural habitats. Uttarakhand. sustainable. Uttarakhand. It is also protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna & Flora) that disallows any international trade in snow leopard or its parts. l The network of MPCAs represents the diversity of forest types. l Over-exploitation and habitat degradation are threats to MAPs. conservation. as well as their cultivation. Being a top predator. 32 . SAVING THE SANJEEVANI Medicinal Plant Conservation Areas (MPCA) The collection of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) from the wild. nonforested high altitude regions of the Himalaya. replicable and highly beneficial to the rural farmer. a farmer and one of the founders of the Beej Bachao Andolan. Only 3500-7000 snow leopards are left in the wild. by local communities and forest l Sustainable harvesting is promoted from adjoining areas of MPCAs. l MPCAs offer protection to species that are in high demand and at risk of becoming extinct. l For the protection. Many organisations such as Snow Leopard Trust (SLT). provide livelihood and health care to a majority of rural India. This endangered animal is a Schedule I animal. Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. a network of natural sites or forests have been set up as MPCAs. l Some of the MAPs have been categorized as Globally Significant Saving Monarch of the Mountain The snow leopard inhabits 1. dry. l PCAs help in preserving germplasm of important plants. this dying practice is being revived by Vijay Jardhari.5 lakh sq km of the Greater and Trans. l Traditionally practised in Garhwal.l This system of bio-farming is scientific.Himalayan regions of J&K. Snow Leopard Conservancy (SLC). Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF). Advanced tools have also been introduced to accurately measure the number of snow leopards in India. identification of threats. NCF and SLT have helped set up livestock insurance programmes and community-managed reserves in Spiti and Ladakh. and wild life conservation and protection in the context of the traditional knowledge societies and their livelihoods. It recognizes the importance of scientific and technological inputs and planning for sustaining of the Himalayan Ecosystem which is vulnerable and susceptible to the impacts and consequences of climate change and anthropogenic activities. The PSL encourages the use of alternative energy sources. The communities in these regions are some of the most susceptible to even a slight change in temperature and precipitation. and also have profound effect on both the regional and global climate. The retreating of the glaciers is leading to glacial lake outburst floods in the mountains. Climate change is having a critical impact on this region. including indigenous communities who reside in the mountains and valleys of the region and whose livelihoods and culture are closely linked to the mountain ecosystems. is faced with many natural changes. one of the most fragile ecosystems of the world. increased cases of natural disasters are all examples reflecting the loss of ecosystem services. Minimum temperatures are projected to rise by 1 35 . The Hemis High Altitude National Park is working to reduce retribution killings and providing alternative incomes. and eco-friendly cultivation practices. deforestation and land use changes. environmental education. and floods and drought in the plains. These changes are severely affecting livelihoods of millions of people. and over 30 PAs that cover their range. inappropriate moisture conditions for crops. participation of other institutions.Snow Leopard and its habitat. Unpredictable variations in temperature and rainfall patterns. National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem GoI's National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) has enunciated the launch of a National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem. Today. loss of flood regulation. innovative approaches to conservation. as well as challenges of developmental process. The mission attempts to address some important issues concerning biodiversity conservation and protection. lowered agricultural productivity and diversity. GoI with SLTNCF. as a result of which conventional ecosystem services are being adversely impacted. Reduced food productivity and water availability. Himalayan glaciers are the primary source of water to several perennial rivers. inaugurated a flagship programme in 2009 called 'Project Snow Leopard' (PSL). affecting stream flow. and reduced for animals are some of the impacts of climate change. The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). there are 400-700 snow leopards left in India. 34 Coping with Change in the Himalaya The Himalayan ecosystem. It stresses on: identification and zonation of large landscapes that have conservation value. Absence of information calls for an urgent need to initiate efforts to generate information to respond and adapt to the current and future consequences on the natural resource base and climate change in the region. and the maximum temperatures may rise by 0. Existing and detailed knowledge on the vulnerability of the region to impacts of climate change is still limited. that ultimately ensures the well-being of the people in the Himalayan region including their social. This is possible through implementing the best practices for sustainable development and improving the existing governance structure as well as strengthening the local institutions and participatory planning. economic and cultural aspects.to 4. In order to increase the resilience of the Himalayan ecosystem and reduce the vulnerability of the local communities it is essential to develop guidelines that can ensure sustainable management of the natural resources.5 degree C.5 to 2.5 degree C. and presenting improved water management regimes from the perspective of indigenous systems. Equally important is the development of a strategic. 36 37 37 . is working to encourage an integrated multi-stakeholder approach for developing sustainable and effective adaptive strategies to cope with climate change in the Himalayan region. in collaboration with Nokia. A priority of the project is to document and disseminate best practices related to water management and climate change adaptation in the Indian Himalaya. integrated approach for addressing the issues of biodiversity conservation and improvement of livelihoods in the context of climate change. IUCN. the work of government. civil society and community-based organizations. The soil of this region is formed by the fertile alluvial deposits of the Ganga and its tributaries. and more than 15 species of freshwater turtles. l The important Protected Areas in this region are Dudhwa. Gandak. l Most natural vegetation and wildlife is found in the north bordering Shivalik hills and in adjacent Bhabar and Terai tracts. moist and dry deciduous. 39 38 . The vegetation is typically tropical. The Ganga basin is a network of river Ganga and its tributaries – some of them are the Yamuna. the Ganges River Dolphin. The major part of the Ganga basin falls in the Gangetic Plain area. Buxa and Sundarbans. Valmiki. l The rivers and wetlands are important habitats for migratory waterfowl. Ramganga. Gomati. They also support Crocodiles. The approximate population of tigers in these areas was estimated to be 274 in 2010.THE GANGETIC PLAIN Lifeline for Millions l The Gangetic Plain refers to the floodplains of the rivers Ganga and Yamuna. India's Largest River Basin The Ganga is India's 'National River'. Son. Ghaghra. Kosi. Gharials. agriculture practices on the river banks.The basin is home to rich natural vegetation. Kans (Saccharum spontaneum). and is recognized as the country's valuable heritage.5-2 m. Maize. this is followed by flowering. agricultural runoff. These include floodplains dominated by agriculture. Jamun (Syzygium cumini). Its wood was widely used for making railway sleepers by the British. Forests to Farmlands The Gangetic Plain comprises a variety of habitat types. Narkul (Phragmites karka). 40 Freshwater Turtles Freshwater turtles are of two types depending on the shell. Found mainly in the Sundarbans. Sal is the dominant forest type mainly distributed in the Terai region of the Gangetic Plain. Forests: Sal (Shorea robusta). considerable endemic flora. marshy grasslands in the Terai. some developmental projects. Periodic infestation by Sal borer affects Sal forests. Canebrakes: Cane or Bent (Calamus tenuis). disturbance on the river catchment area. deciduous tree which is native to the Indian subcontinent. Wetlands: Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera). River Ganga is considered to be one of the most sacred rivers. The freshwater habitats of turtles are under constant threat due to sand mining. Did You Know? Some turtles are very important for aquatic ecosystems as they act as natural scavengers by eating dead and dying aquatic animals. Each habitat has typical vegetation. and forests along the northern fringes. The small off-white flowers fill the forest with fragrance. Farm lands: Paddy. This is currently the most serious threat. Sal A tree that can be as tall as a ten storey building! Sal (Shorea robusta) is a large. as well as humans. Trapa (Trapa natans). Wheat. Mangroves: Rhizophora sp. Turtle populations in this area have declined drastically during the last few decades. Bahera (Terminalia belerica). The trees shed their leaves in February-March. discharge of pollutants etc. Khair (Acacia catechu) are characteristic tree species. Pulses are some of the major crops grown here. Pater (Typha angustata) are typical grasses of this region. Munj (Saccharum munja). Semal (Salmalia malabarica). Gular (Ficus glomerata). Grasslands: Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus). Water lily (Nymphaea sp. Industrial and domestic waste water. and supports a large number of wildlife species. The fruits are food for many animals during the dry summer months. which is either a soft shell or a hard shell.) are some of the common aquatic plants. is another factor responsible for the decline in the population of turtles. Rivers: Aquatic plants. The loss of turtle eggs due to predation by domestic and wild animals. This moderate to slow growing tree can attain a height of 30 to 35 m and girth of up to 1. 41 . contribute to make the Ganga river basin highly polluted in the Gangetic Plain. Turtles are also poached for food and medicinal purposes. Extracts are used in hair oils. It is a powerful antioxidant and boosts the immune system. Udad and Moong Kalanamak Rice Kalanamak is one of the finest quality. decline in grain quality. pulses. Siddha. and lack of research support. toothpastes and mosquito repellants. Arjun leaf juice helps to cure dysentery and ear ache. Many modern medicines contain plant derivatives as well. or Dhak.Herbs for Health When you think of health. and namak means salt. Farmers have been using their own Kalanamak rice seeds since ages. Kharif (June . Brahmi is used to treat rheumatism.June): Maize. It is widely used in cosmetics industry. Tulsi leaf juice is useful for treating gastric disorders. constipation and bronchitis. The seeds are beneficial in the treatment of skin diseases. Not just once but thrice! There are three major cropping seasons: 1. vegetable (sabzi) and flower (phool) crops. stops nausea and vomiting and purifies blood. The mainly alluvial type of soil and annual rainfall ranging from 1000 to 2000 mm support the cultivation of a variety of crops in the Gangetic Plain. Rabi (October . and Nature gives you a bounty of crops. wheat. Phool. Aloe vera helps in healing small cuts. scented rice varieties of India. Jayad (February . mental disorders. Sabzi Vegetables and fruits play a major role in Indian agriculture by providing food. Ashwagandha improves memory and concentration. Horticulture is the science of cultivation of fruit (phal). Bel fruit destroys intestinal worms. This variety of rice is now threatened due to poor yield. including rice. It derives its name from its black husk. wounds etc. lentils. Amla is a rich source of vitamin C. nutrition and economic security. maize and sugarcane. Kala means black. It is believed that this variety has been in cultivation since about 560 BC. Aloe Vera 42 A Bounty of Crops Put water and the right type of soil together. non-availability of quality seeds. is beneficial in the treatment of diarrhoea. insect stings. Different parts of plants provide raw material for use in several indigenous systems of medicine in India–Ayurveda.February): Wheat and Mustard 2. bronchitis and skin diseases. Unani. The gum of Palash. and home remedies. Neem is used as an insecticide. hemorrhage etc. Mango Phal. and it is prescribed in jaundice. and maintains cholesterol levels. Kalanamak was grown widely in Terai belt of Uttar Pradesh.October): Rice 3. think of plants. 43 . Etawah. Betel Leaf : The Gangetic Plains are one of the largest producers of Betel leaf. Litchi: Muzaffarpur in Bihar is famous for the production of the Shahi Litchi. Spotbilled Duck 2.Bronzewinged Jacana 13. Nagi Dam and Nakti Dam. Pheasanttailed Jacana 12. Upper Ganga River (Brijghat to Narora Stretch) Uttar Pradesh East Kolkata Wetlands. Sarus Crane 3. Gogabil Bird Sanctuary.Vegetables The Gangetic Plain ranks first in vegetable production in India. Bihar and West Bengal are main guava producing states. Katihar. Purple Heron 11. peas. cauliflower and cabbage. 44 45 . tomato. Banana: Hajipur in Bihar is famous for the production of the best quality of banana. sweet potato. Raiganj. IUCN's Important Bird Areas (IBA) are areas recognized as being globally important habitats for the conservation of bird populations.Barheaded Goose Litchi The Wetlands Home to innumerable birds and plants. 24 Paraganas. Rosy Pelican 10. Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary. Lesser Whistling Teal 7. Hardoi Bihar: Kanvar Lake Bird Sanctuary. or paan. West Bengal Fruits Mango: Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh is world famous for the popular Dussehri Aam. Sandi. 1. No Passport Required! The wetlands are favourite wintering grounds of the migratory birds from Siberia. The Indian Institute of Vegetable Research is in Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Aligarh. cucurbits. Pintail 4. Lakhbahosi. Bhagalpur. Some Migratory and Resident Birds. Sundarbans. Jamui. Guava: Uttar Pradesh. Common Coot 8. Ruddy Shelduck 6. 66 per cent production of paan is contributed by West Bengal alone. Ramsar Sites: The Gangetic Plain has two Ramsar Sites. Wetland Birds Long-haul flight from Siberia to India over the Himalaya. Farrukhabad. This region is the largest producer of tomato and cauliflower in the country. West Bengal: Kulik Bird Sanctuary. Mainpuri. the wetlands also support lakhs of humans. Begusarai. Vegetables Some of the IBAs in this region: Uttar Pradesh: Patna Jheel. wetlands of International Importance designated under the Ramsar Convention. Major vegetables produced are potato. Safeda guava of Allahabad is famous. Comb Duck 9. Saman. Shoveller 5. Shiekha Jheel. It is estimated that less than 250 'mature individuals' exist in the wild. Did You Know? Deer are different from antelopes. Thus. toothy snout. Brahmaputra and the Mahanadi river systems. These help in swimming. called the melon. Habitat destruction. A mature female has a longer snout the male. pollution. Ganges. or Chital (Axis axis). Spotted deer. it is believed that the gharial is possibly extinct from Myanmar. The newly-grown antlers are encased in thick soft skin called 'velvet'. Sambar (Rusa unicolor). Barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak). It is an important part for acoustic function and helps in echolocation . Blow hole: The blow hole is the organ responsible for breathing in dolphin. Swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli duvauceli). 47 All the five species of deer are found in the Dudhwa National Park in Uttar Pradesh. Ramsar Convention has defined wetlands as "areas of marsh. Gharial: Croc with a Pot! Crocodile. Gharial What Makes a Dolphin ? Snout: Snout is the elongated. beak-like mouth found in dolphins. prey population depletion. The Gangetic Plain is the home of the Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus).The wetlands provide feeding and breeding habitats for the Sarus Crane. Snout contains the teeth that are homodont. peatland or water. Antelopes l have horns (both male and female) l horns are permanent and without branches. 46 . occurring in the Indus. Once found abundantly. River conservation and various protection measures can help to save this unique species which is also referred to as the 'River Guardian'. In India the major breeding populations are found in Chambal and the Girwa rivers. It lives in deep fast-flowing rivers and feeds mainly on fish. alligator and gharial are collectively called crocodilians. a specialized river-dwelling fish eater. including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six meters". which is the tallest flying bird in the world. fen. permanent or temporary with water that is static or flowing. Swamp deer Deer The Gangetic Plain is home to five species of deer. Chambal holds 85% of the entire gharial population. The Gharial gets its name from its long and narrow snout which ends in a tip with a bulbous pot (ghara). Melon: The head contains a bulging structure. fresh. a compressed powerful tail and a tough leathery hide. siltation and poaching are some of the main threats to this crocodilian. Deer l have antlers (only males) l shed and re-grow their antlers periodically. The gharial is endemic to the Indian subcontinent. whether natural or artificial. brackish or salt. Flippers: Flippers are the modified forelimbs. Tail Fluke: Dolphin uses its fluke for propulsion through water. Bhutan and Pakistan. They all share some common features–a long. It is seen as a muscular flap on the dorsal side of the head. Bangladesh and Nepal has remnant populations. gharial is globally 'Critically endangered'. Hog deer (Axis porcinus). One of the important characteristics of dolphin propulsion is that they produce movement from both up and down stroke of their fluke. Some prominent weeds are Lantana. These species have often flourished at the cost of the local native species. Large-scale sand mining destroys the sandy banks required by gharials. illegal sand extraction continues along the riverbanks of the Ganga and its tributaries. migratory birds. Spread of human habitations and some development activities are leading to forest cutting and clearing. Bihar-12.444. and irrigation projects are changing the courses and water levels of the rivers. and some birds for nesting and basking. West Bengal-15) Biosphere Reserves – 1 (West Bengal-1) 49 Threats to Biodiversity Use of Pesticides: Extensive use of pesticides in agriculture not only kills the pests. soil erosion. Dams and Barrages Protected Areas Out of the 3. turtles. Pollution: Release of untreated industrial and domestic waste into the rivers of the region is leading to a high level of water pollution. loss of species. Alien Invasive and Exotic Species: Introduction of non-native species. Ganges River Dolphin and other species have now become inhospitable for these species. Water Hyacinth and Parthenium.8 per cent of the total landmass of India.807. Sand Mining: Sand mining is one of the major threats to biodiversity in the Gangetic Plain.7 sq km National Parks – 7 (Uttar Pradesh-1. turtles. barrages. Human activities are placing severe pressure on biological resources. Bihar-1. and resultant loss of biodiversity.54. Several aquatic species such as Ganges River Dolphin. and increasingly leading to fragmentation and degradation of habitats. but also adversely affects diversity of useful insects and birds. timber.363 sq km Area under Wild Life Sanctuaries – 5. The Gangetic Plain covers 10. Bihar-1. West Bengal-2) Wild Life Sanctuaries – 44 (Uttar Pradesh-17. The agricultural runoff which flows into the rivers adds to river pollution. Deforestation Religious practices and periodic events such as melas on riverbanks also add to the problem. deliberately or accidentally. Many former habitats of gharial. etc. gharials. and human-animal conflict. especially during the dry season. has been a major threat. Protected Areas . Despite enforcement of laws. 48 .848 sq km area of the Gangetic Plain 7. This leads to siltation of rivers. fodder.Increasing Pressure Some losses of biodiversity are irreversible and are a threat to our own well-being. are facing threat of extinction due to river pollution. Poaching and Illegal Trade for animal-based products is one of the major threats to the wild animals. and fishes are now on the verge of extinction due to this.7 sq km comes under Protected Areas (PAs).52 Area under National Parks – 2. and otters. Dams and Barrages: Dams. West Bengal-5) Tiger Reserves – 4 (Uttar Pradesh-1. Many species of turtles. Deforestation: Rapidly growing population generates pressure on forest resources to meet the demand for fuelwood. Ganges and Brahmaputra. rhinos were successfully reintroduced in the park through a programme initiated in 1984. Uttar Pradesh. several species of hard. The River Ganges Dolphin is an endangered freshwater mammal species endemic to the Ganga and Brahmaputra river systems in India. the one-horned rhino now occurs only in a few pockets in terai of Nepal and West Bengal. Semal. East Kolkata Wetlands. Haldu. many of which are threatened with extinction. and Brahmaputra valley in Assam. This Sanctuary is listed as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and is also a proposed Ramsar Site. West Bengal) National Chambal Sanctuary Supports the largest population of Gharial in the world and over 320 species of resident and migratory birds.and soft-shell turtles. Dudhwa is perhaps the last stronghold of the wild fauna of the Gangetic Plain. Brijghat to Narora stretch. It supports a relatively high density of dolphins. Out of the 24 species of freshwater turtles found in India at least 8 rare species. along approximately 425 km length of the Chambal river. This sanctuary. as well as extensive tracts of moist grasslands. These species include the gharial. Khair are the predominant tree species. Sal. Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. located in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of the state. Indian smooth-coated otter. The Sanctuary also supports a rich diversity of other wildlife species. Dudhwa is the only National Park of Uttar Pradesh. Chambal River 50 51 .Ramsar Sites (Wetlands of International Importance) – 2 (Upper Ganga River. Gharial Dudhwa National Park Tiger The Park area of 884 sq km represents the best natural Sal forest left in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh. Marsh Crocodile Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary The only protected area in the world established for the conservation of the Gangetic Dolphin. borders three states: Rajasthan. Since it offered the required swampy habitat under the protection of a national park. Together with the endangered Ganges River Dolphin. are found here. Rohini. including critically endangered red-crowned roofed turtle. Asna. these are the flagship species of the Sanctuary. Several endangered and important species are found here. The Sanctuary is situated in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. Bahera. Some critically endangered species like the Bengal Florican and the Hispid Hare are also found here. and an astounding variety of migratory and resident birds including 135 species of water fowl. It is home to sizeable populations of Tiger and Leopard. Once distributed across the floodplains of Indus. Rhinos are reported to have occurred in Dudhwa in the 19th century. More than 2500 juveniles were released in early 1980s in river Chambal and Girwa and also in other habitats like the Ramganga.Gharial Conservation Programme was initiated for conserving Gharial in National Chambal Sanctuary and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has developed the Ganges River Dolphin Conservation Plan 2010-2020. 53 . This effort has brought the Gharial population back from the brink of extinction. is perhaps one of the most successful conservation programmes in India. Back From the Brink The Rhino Re-introduction Programme. Ganga Action Plan (GAP) was launched in 1986 by the Government of India with the main objective of pollution abatement and improving the water quality. With an initial six reintroduced individuals brought from Assam. Children's Forest Programme as part of UP-PFMPAP project is being implemented in around 650 schools in 6 districts of UP. Furthermore. The population of Sarus Crane has grown during the last decade through strong conservation efforts made by wildlife-related NGOs and Uttar Pradesh Forest Department. which represent one third of the global population. augmenting forest resources and improving livelihoods. Ghaghra and recently in the Ganga at Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary. and with two additional supplements from Nepal. as well as supporting research and development to conserve the biotic diversity of the River Ganga. thereby empowering the local forest dependent communities. 52 Joining Hands Joint Forest Management approach is adopted under the Uttar Pradesh Participatory Forest Management and Poverty Alleviation Project (UP-PFMPAP) by Uttar Pradesh Forest Department. initiated to reestablish the Indian rhino in the Dudhwa National Park. It aims to create understanding among children about the value of trees and to motivate and support them to plant saplings in schools. The Sarus Crane is the State Bird of Uttar Pradesh. intervention made by the Allahabad High Court for conservation of wetlands in Etawah and Mainpuri helped in saving more than 3000 Sarus Cranes. thus ensuring their protection and creating mini-forest in school campus. It aims at restoring degraded forests. the population of the Rhino in Dudhwa has gone up to 30 individuals. Patna University, Vikramshila Biodiversity Conservation Education Centre, Bhagalpur, Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and Wildlife Institute of India (WII) are among the several institutions doing conservation research on biodiversity of the region. Centre for Environment Education (CEE) with the support from MoEF has initiated a Ganges River Dolphin conservation education programme with more than 500 schools. WWF India is implementing initiatives for biodiversity conservation throughout the Gangetic Plain with the focus on conservation research, education and awareness. Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) is working for conservation of freshwater turtles in the region. Ecosystems for Life: a Bangladesh-India Initiative is a civil society-led multi-stakeholder dialogue process to promote better understanding of the management of natural resources in Bangladesh and India. Ecosystems for Life works to develop a shared vision and understanding of food, livelihood and water security issues through collaborative research and studies; creation of a knowledge hub; development research-based policy options; and enhancing the capacity of civil society stakeholders to participate in the management of natural resources. Ecosystems for Life is being implemented in Bangladesh and India by IUCN Country Offices and managed by the IUCN Asia Regional Office, Bangkok, Thailand. Ecosystems for Life The Ganga, Brahmaputra and Meghna, three major rivers, along with their tributaries, drain an area of about 1.75 million sq km and have direct impact on around 620 million people in India and Bangladesh. These great rivers are inseparable from the history and legends of the region, as well as from the people who depend on them for their well-being. Strategies to ensure the future well-being of the region are needed. 54 55 NORTH EAST INDIA Land of the Rising Sun in India North East India comprises eight states nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, North Eastern Hills and Assam Plains. This region marks the confluence of Indo-Malayan, Indian, IndoChinese, Indo-Burmese & Indo-Japanese bio-geographical elements. The altitude ranges from 200 m to 8600 m. The climate varies from near tropical to near alpine. The greater part of the region has, however, subtropical climate characterized by high humidity, and moderate temperature. The annual precipitation ranges from 1637 mm to 6317 mm. The world's wettest place, Mawsynram (11,872 mm annual rainfall) is located in this zone. The region has an uneven topography with undulating mountains. The major peaks include Kanchendzonga (the highest mountain peak in India and third highest in the world (8585 m), Tawang, Zafu etc. Amidst the hills, lie more than two lakh hectare of wetlands, which harbour a wide range of aquatic flora and fauna. Assam alone has more than 3500 wetlands (>50 ha). Did You Know? The North East is called 'the land of the rising sun in India', because the sun rises first in India in Dong, a village in easternmost Arunachal Pradesh. 57 56 The major wetlands of the region include three Ramsar Sites (wetlands of international importance), namely Loktak, Deepor beel and Rudrasagar. The major rivers of North East include the Brahmaputra, Barak, Teesta and their tributaries. Rice: The Staple Food The North East region, with 6 distinct agro-climatic zones, is very rich in indigenous rice varieties including a number of aromatic varieties. Depending on the season, place and system of agriculture, rice varieties grown in the region can be classified into 6 major groups: Ahu (autumn rice) Sali (winter rice) Boro (spring/summer rice) Asra (shallow water rice) Bao (deep water/floating rice) Hill rice. Many Faces, Many Tongues The North East has among the highest ethnic, bio-cultural and linguistic diversity in India. The region is home to more than 220 tribes with more than 1000 languages and dialects. They include Indo-Mongoloid, TibetoBurman and Proto-Australoid races. Did You Know? The largest population of the Wild Water Buffalo, in the world, is found in the region. Magnificent Mammals Royal Bengal Tiger The 5 Tiger Reserves in the region are home for over 150 tigers. 329 species of mammals are distributed over a wide range of habitats from mountain peaks to floodplain wetlands in North East India. One-horned Rhino Kaziranga National Park alone is home to 2290 rhinos out of 2505 found in the region. The rhino population is confined to riverine grasslands of the Himalayas only. Asian Elephant The second largest elephant population (more than 9000) in the country is found in the region. There are 8 Elephant Reserves and 58 elephant corridors. Hot Hotter Hottest A great variety of chilli is grown in North East India. This includes popular varieties like King Chilli (Bhut Jolokia), Dhan Jolokia, Khud Jolokia, Krishna Jolokia etc. King chilli belongs to genus Capsicum which includes more than 25 species. Add “C” to Health More than 17 species of citrus and their 52 cultivars have been reported from this region. As many as 32 strains of lemon alone are available in North East region l North East India is believed to be the Center of Origin of citrus l King Chilli is believed to be one of the hottest chilli in the world One-horned Rhino Did You Know? Nokrek Biosphere Reserve in Meghalaya is the country's first protected area for Citrus Royal Bengal Tiger 59 58 A Paradise of Birds Some of the rarest birds of the world like Greater Adjutant Stork, Bengal Florican, Green Peafowl and Bugun Liocichla are found in North East. 3 species – Manipur Bush Quail, Marsh Babbler and Black Breasted Parrot bill – are endemic to the Assam plains. North East is also home to several species of critically endangered vultures. White Backed Vulture 6 species of pines out of 7 found in the world are found in North East. Approximately 7500 species of flowering plants, 1000 species of nonflowering plants are found here. 28 species are Gymnosperms (plants whose seeds are not enclosed in an ovule, e.g. a pine cone). 97 ferns and 144 orchids are endemic to North East. Many primitive plants like Tree fern, Magnolia, Ginkgo biloba are found in the region. Out of 124 types of forest in India 54 types of forests are represented here. Bamboo North East India accounts for over 63 species of Bamboo classified under 20 genera. This tall grass is an integral part of the culture and day-to-day life of the people of this region, particularly those living in the rural areas. Himalayan ginseng (Panax pseudoginseng) It has high medicinal properties–believed to be a stamina-boosting plant as it contains sapogenins. Taxus wallichiana An important gymnosperm which yields a valuable anti-cancer compound called taxol. Apart from the resident species, during the winter, a wide number of migratory birds like the Bar Headed Goose visit this region from Siberia and Mongolia. This region is a part of the migration route – Central Asian flyway. Creatures Big and Small l 44 Lizard species reported out of 201 species found in India l 102 Snakes species out of the 275 identified from India. Spot Billed Duck l 21 tortoises and freshwater turtles species found out of 29 species known to occur in the country. North East is a 'Hotspot' of tortoises and freshwater turtles within India. l 105 Amphibian species out of 286 reported from India. Did You Know? Out of about 1300 bird species reported from India, North East is home to about 900 species. Assamese Balloon Frog is found only in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. It is endemic to North East India. l 267 Fresh Water Fish species have been reported. l 3624 Insect species have been reported. Did You Know? Wave to our Close Relative! The Hoolock Gibbon It gets its name Hoolock from the howling sound that it makes. Gibbons are apes. 61 The Giant or King Fern (Angiopteris evecta) is one of the largest ferns on earth. This rare and endangered fern species is found in Arunachal Pradesh. It is used by the local people as a substitute for staple food during food shortage. A Plenitude of Plants The region accounts for nearly 50 per cent of the total number of plant species in India. Many of the flora found here are endemic to the region. 60 Look at the Pictures. l What is the most prominent feature of the face? l How are they different? The male is black. The female is brown. l Notice the arms and legs. The arms of the Hoolock Gibbon are normally double the length of its legs. Hoolock Gibbon This is the only fair of North East India where the barter system still exists. Before the mela, an Agni Puja, or fire worship, is performed for the well-being of mankind. The mela has great significance for the conservation of Jon Beel wetland. Sacred Groves Sacred groves are tracts of virgin forest with rich diversity. They have been protected by the local people for centuries because of the cultural taboos and beliefs that the deities reside in these and protect the villagers from calamities. Several plants and animals that are threatened in other forests are still well conserved in some of the sacred groves. The sacred identity of these forest tracts plays a significant role in promoting sustainable utilization and conservation of flora and fauna of the region. Sacred groves demonstrate an inextricable link between present society and the past in terms of biodiversity, cultural, religious and ethnic heritage. The sacred groves, managed by the Lamas, and the Mompa tribe in Arunachal Pradesh are known as Gompa forest area. Gompa means Monastery. Going Going ... Human activities are posing a serious threat to the biodiversity of the region. Developmental projects: Construction of hydro power dams, roads, railways, industries, townships etc., though inevitable, are leading to loss of forests and posing threat to the wildlife in these habitats. Jon Beel Mela goods for exchange Celebrating Biodiversity Bihu: Farming Festivals Three bihus are celebrated in Assam. Rogali the spring festival is celebrated in April for preparation of farming activity. Kongali is for worshipping the gods for a prosperous yield. The lighting of lamps around paddy fields helps to control pests. Bihu Dance Bhogali is a post harvest festival. The traditional dishes for the festival feasts are made from a variety of cereals and seasonal vegetables. Hornbill Festival: Unity in Diversity This most important festival of Nagaland is named after the bird Hornbill (Dhanesh). The aim of the festival is to revive and protect the rich culture of Nagaland and display its traditions. The festival signifies unity in diversity. Jon Beel Mela: Conserving the Wetland Jon Beel Mela is a century-old festival of Assam. The three-day mela held in the second or third week of Magh is known for the Gobha Haat. Did You Know? Why are they poached? Rhino for its horn Elephant for its tusks Tiger for its skin and bones Snake for the skin Did You Know? 15 out of 31 known species of primates found in India are reported from the North East. 62 63 and some portion was used by the members of the JFMCs for making brooms. the Government of Tripura. This is a major cause of habitat loss for wildlife. reptiles and other vertebrates found here are endemic (not found anywhere else in the world) to the region. Orange bellied Capped Langur is an endemic langur of North East India. North East India is also home to some of the flora and fauna which are found only in a few other places on the globe. Community Conservation Initiatives Adding Value to Grasses Broom grass (Thysanolaema maxima) is an important Non Timber Forest Produce of Tripura. Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes khasiana) is a carnivorous plant found only in the Khasi hills of Meghalaya. under the Tripura JICA Project. Traditionally the broom grass was collected and sold as raw grass through MARKFED. launched a pilot project to involve 500 households of 14 Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) in harvesting. Some portion of the grass was sold as raw grass. Tiger. a state level public sector undertaking. Golden Langur is named for its golden coloured fur. The project yielded a harvest of 522 MT worth Rs 3 crore. mammals. 65 Did You Know? Two Biodiversity Hotspots–Indo Burman and Himalayan–are found here. Pygmy Hog is found only in Assam. processing. i. value addition. In 2011. and value addition of this important NTFP. These are among the smallest pigs in the world.e. Encroachment Forests and wetlands are being encroached upon by people for agricultural practices and settlement. Through this initiative the members of the JFMCs got the financial benefit directly without any intervention of middlemen. This region is on the route of the illegal international trade of wild animals to South East Asia.Poaching Rhino. Elephant and Snakes are some of the prime targets of poachers. The largest population of Greater Adjutant Stork is found in Assam 64 . The project was extended in 9 Ranges in the next harvesting season. Special Places for Special Species 25 per cent of the birds. It is restricted to the western part of Assam. Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation The Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation is the 67 66 . Captive bred populations are being acclimatized and released into Nameri. Manas Maozigendri Eco. About 1. The conservation effort was initiated by the local community. Subsequently. and as a result in December 1998. most of the members started this activity.5 lakh artisans are engaged in value addition of bamboo in the state. and through this value addition. Natures' Foster. Initiatives like Rhino Vision 2020 and Project Tiger have immensely helped in the recovery of the Manas National Park. Aaranyak. Centre for Environment Education (CEE) provided support to build capacity of the village council in the context of biodiversity conservation.000 MT of raw bamboo sticks that account for 60 per cent of the total raw sticks requirement for incense stick production in the country. Working Together to Conserve Biodiversity Recovery Activities in Manas–A World Heritage Site Manas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. WTI. Sonai-Rupai and Orang protected areas. Organizations like Kalpavriksh and others also extended support. increased animal population and has become an eco-tourism destination for a number of tourists. Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme The Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme was started in 1995 to revive populations of the Pygmy Hog through conservation breeding. Ministry of Environment and Forests. Tripura JICA Project launched 'Incense Stick Making' as a sustainable income generating activity for the members of the 130 Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMC). have been able to supplement their household income by Rs 2000/. Active NGOs of the area including WWF-India. Activities like translocation of hand raised calves of rhinos and elephants were taken up. CEE. Following the training.to 2. Many international and national organizations including the State Forest Department.A Fragrant Business Tripura supplies approximately 25. of India. Bodoland Territorial Council and Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) developed a recovery plan for the site. This collective effort has succeeded in the removal of the “in danger” tag from Manas National Park. Ecosystems India. The Forest Department. Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and Ecosystems India are involved in the project. demarcation of the area as a sanctuary was envisioned. Khonoma Khonoma is the first village in Nagaland to impose a ban on logging and hunting in community forests. The council has 3-4 representatives from each khel and 3 women members. Govt. The Park was tagged as “in danger” after serious wildlife depletion due to political unrest.500/-per month. have helped the Forest Department in implementing the recovery plan and raising public awareness.tourism Society. The village now has a better forest cover. The village started the ban on logging in 1996. Green Manas. Implementation of conservation and ecotourism initiatives was taken up by Khonoma village council. Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary was established. first rescue and rehabilitation centre near a protected area in India. In order to reduce the risks to the Indian rhino population by overcrowding. Translocations are the driving force in the successful comeback of the Greater One-horned Indian Rhino. CWRC was established in August 2002 near the Kaziranga National Park with the primary aim to stabilize displaced animals and release them back into the wild.2020 aims to ensure that rhinos are evenly distributed throughout their home range. disasters and disease. 68 69 . Indian Rhino Vision 2020 IUCN Species Survival Commission's Asian Rhino Specialist Group is helping to rehabilitate a once dwindling population of the magnificent Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros. This is a joint venture of Wildlife Trust of India–International Fund for Animal Welfare. This is one of the most successful rescue and rehabilitation centres with more than 83 per cent successful rescues. The Indian Rhino Vision . and Assam Forest Department. including the Aravalli hill range. and the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. The Kachchh Desert is a marshy desert. This area is characterized by extreme climate: annual temperature ranging from near freezing in the winters to over 50 degree C in summers and scanty annual rainfall in the range of 100-150 mm. The Semi-Arid Zone This includes the area between the Desert and the Deccan plateau. There can be deserts which are snow covered! sq km aims to protect the unique desert ecosystem. Protecting the Biodiversity l The Kachchh Biosphere Reserve covering a total area of 12. Annual rainfall is between 400 and 1000 mm. The Thar Desert is a sandy desert. It is characterized by seasonal water-logging. Semi-Arid regions are transition zones between arid and sub-humid belts. comprising the Little and Greater Rann of Kachchh in Gujarat.454 The Indian Desert The Semi-arid Zone Did You Know? Aridity.THE INDIAN DESERT THE SEMI-ARID ZONE Around The Aravalli The Indian Desert This includes the arid zone west of Aravalli ranges. or (lack of ) moisture and not the temperature is what defines deserts. 71 70 . l 81 Sanctuaries and 10 National Parks aim to conserve the biodiversity of the semi-arid zone. l It has the largest grasslands area in India. l Porbandar Gecko (Hemidactylus porbandarensis). l 'City of Lakes' – Udaipur is situated in the drylands of Rajasthan! l The rivers Sutlej. . Yamuna. The magnificent Asiatic lion is found in its natural state only in the scrub forests of Gir in Gujarat. Chenab. l The world famous bird sanctuary Keoladeo Ghana National Park at Bharatpur is one of the five World Natural Heritage sites of India. Banas are some of the major rivers of the Indian Desert and the Semi-Arid Zones. Bandi. Jhelum. Asiatic Lion Deserts Are More Than Sand Deserts are sometimes wrongly perceived as the end result of land degradation or desertification! In fact. AND THAT'S NOT ALL Both these zones contribute a large share in India's food security. Luni. the Deserts and Semi-Arid Zone. Pelican Ghaggar. Sabarmati.the Asiatic lion. These attract a large number of birds. Ravi. Beas. Kanjli and Ropar wetland in Punjab. and Bhoj wetland in Madhya Pradesh. Mahi. There are 6 Ramsar Sites (wetlands of international importance) in these regions. Chambal. Arvari. is believed to be unique to this region. These are Harike lake. The vegetation in these regions is mainly dry consisting of stunted. Narmada.l 5 Wildlife Sanctuaries and 1 National Park help to conserve Wetlands in the Drylands l There are more than 25. Aji. both migratory and resident. Deserts provide important life-support services to a number of life forms including human populations in much the same way as other ecosystems do. Bhadar. l The little Rann of Kachchh is the only natural home of the Asiatic Great Indian Bustard 72 Wild Ass. thorny or prickly shrubs and perennial herbs which are mostly 73 Is The Indian Desert a Dead Zone? l It is home to 1200 species of animals and 682 species of flowering plants! l Flamingo City' in the Rann of Kachchh is amongst the few places in the world. Together they support more than 30 per cent of the country's food grain and also milk production! The Semi-Arid Zone: What Is Special? l The only region in the world which is home to 3 big cats -. a new species Asiatic Wild Ass of lizard found from the region recently. tiger and leopard. a true desert is not the end result of desertification. It is in itself a unique natural ecosystem. Keoladeo National Park and Sambhar lake in Rajasthan. where flamingos congregate in such large numbers to breed. the Banni Grasslands.000 human-made and natural wetlands in biodiversity of the Indian Desert. There are open grasslands. probably more than 10. In severe climatic conditions. desert plants would not be able to grow well if the soil moisture and water availability increases. It can also obtain water by burning fat tissue. The extensive root system makes this plant ideal for dune stabilization and preventing soil erosion. Plants of the Desert Plants in the desert serve numerous ecological and economic purposes. The higher the salinity in the water in which they feed. 74 75 .000 years ago! Russell's Viper: The scaly waterproof skin. Kikar (Acacia jaquemontii) This rigid xerophytic (adapted to survive with little water) shrub has a fast growing tap root. Complex geological and climatic changes led to the creation of Thar. Khejari. harsh sunlight and high temperature. Dhaman (Cenchrus ciliaris). Once upon a time… The Thar Desert was a rich forest and Kachchh was sea! The discovery of fossilized remains of dinosaurs and trees and rich reserves of lignite and coal are proof of this. the bigger is the gland size! l Thar Desert harbours about 16 endemic plant species. Blackbuck: As the heat increases. Some of the typical and dominant grass species are Sewan grass (Lasiurus sindicus). and the ability to recycle a large portion of fluid from the urinary system help this snake in reducing water loss.drought resistant. the massive roots allow for rapid re-growth after rain. these plants die back to the crown. The Indian Desert is the cradle of the Harappa and Mohenjodaro civilizations! The excavations of remains of the ancient settlements of Dhola-Vira from Kachchh indicate that this was once an active port city. too. Grasslands of the desert bind the fragile top layer. Blackbuck Russell's Viper Adapt or Perish Astonishing adaptations enable local species in a desert not only to survive in minimal moisture. and high salinity. Rohido are a few of them. It has a population density of 83 persons per sq km as compared to the world average of 7! The cities of Bikaner. This way it sweats less. Thar Desert is the most populated desert in the world. stems or roots. Phog. as sweating starts only after the body temperature crosses 41° C. This enables it to utilize moisture stored in lower soil layers to remain green into the dry seasons. Thar Desert is the eastern extension of the Persio-Arabian desert that connects to the great Sahara desert. Lampro (Aristida adscensionis) Aristida are an opportunistic species that flower in summer or spring. help to check wind erosion and sustain livestock. Jaisalmer and Jodhpur are located within the desert! Succulents such as cactii store water in fleshy leaves. This helps them survive in water-scarce conditions. the body temperature of this antelope also rises. Did You Know? l Did You Know? With adaptations for survival in seasonal drought and heat. Short-lived plants cover the desert with a green carpet for a short period after rains. Some Special Adaptations Flamingo: A pair of salt glands just below its eyes secretes a solution saltier than seawater. Bharut (Cenchrus biflorus) and Lampro (Aristida adscensionis). This helps flamingos to control the salt level in their blood. but even to thrive in these conditions. essentially reverting to a bunch-grass-like form. Black-winged Stilt Motha Chiya Cyperus rotundus Web of Life Plants in desert have their own unique place in the web of life. partridge. eagles. Acacia species. Spirodela polyrrhiza. Herons. Lesser Adjutant. Fafada Thor (Opuntia elatior). N. Did You Know? Cyanophyceae and Rhodophyceae class of algae and bacteria growing in the lake impart a variety of striking colours to the water. A number of water bodies and marshes in the desert harbour characteristic aquatic species such as Lemna paucicostata. There are birds and animals that depend on a particular vegetation for their different needs. this is an important wintering ground for migratory waterfowl. quail etc. The critically endangered Great Indian Bustard prefers to breed in open grasslands with scattered low scrubs. can feed only on Salvadora persica and S. Then the scorching heat dries up the entire landscape into a flat barren land covered with crystals of salt. common teal. Khari jar (Salvadora persica) and Mithi jar (S. and estuaries. Motio-Hiran Chobbo (Farsetia macrantha). the endangered White-headed Duck is found here. This is a human-made and managed wetland which was originally a natural depression. pectinatus. P. white spoonbill. many species of eagle. Aak (Calotropis procera). Indian Roller Aak Calotropis procera Larva of the Blue Spotted Arab. Najas graminea. Potamogeton crispus. and benthic diatoms found only in alkaline lakes. Some Threatened Desert Plants Paneer Bandh (Withania coagulans). in turn. 33 islands are scattered across the lake. Dalmatian pelicans. A number of wetlands. During migratory season. salt pans and saline lagoons. It is the wintering area for over 364 species of birds. Monsoon floods the entire low-lying areas. Kachchh Biosphere Reserve It is an admixture of saline. this Park is home to rich biological diversity. Jungli Ber Zizyphus nummularia To Conserve and Protect Harike Lake A Wildlife Sanctuary and a Ramsar Site. and pallid harrier are seen here. Oscillatoria spp. oleiodes). a butterfly restricted to northwest region in India. White-breasted Waterhen Did You Know? The beautiful pink colour of the flamingo is because of its highly specialised diet consisting almost entirely of blue-green algae such as Spirulina spp. Rato Jal Agio (Ammannia desertorum). sustains the migrating wetland birds. and support the lake ecology that. species of vulture are among the threatened birds found here. marshy and coastal desert where water and soils are extremely saline.Some Important Desert Plants Lana (Haloxylon salicornium). The wetland has rich floating vegetation. The critically endangered Oriental White-backed Vulture and Slenderbilled Vulture are also seen here. species of ducks and sandpiper. Keoladeo Ghana National Park One of the most important waterfowl refuges of the world. sociable lapwing. 76 77 . welwitschii. grasslands and saline mud flats give Kachchh its unique biodiversity. Rohida (Tecomella undulata). Shrubby horsetail (Ephedra foliata). species of ducks. oleoides. green elevated patches known as beyt (island). storks. a Ramsar Site (wetland of international importance) and a World Heritage Site. are found here.. Painted and Black-necked Stork.. Najas. Baheda (Terminalia bellerica). Some Threatened Plants Khadulia (Ceropegia odorata). Denizens of the Desert The Most Evolved Plant Species The grasses are considered to be the most evolved species of plants. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). Extensive grasslands rich in legumes and shrubs. just around 4000 individuals of this subspecies are left at this single location. The Semi-Arid Zone represents “Savannah” vegetation. Pied tit. are some of the common grasses of the zone. common sandpiper and pelicans are some other birds seen here. Godal (Lannea coromandelica). They are efficient in absorbing rain water and play a vital role in water retention and hydrology of an area. Strobilanthes halbergii. Aristida spp. Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis). Did You Know? In the Little Rann of Kachchh. are seen here.Task Force on Grasslands and Deserts Scorpion Amla Emblica officinalis Indian Long-eared Hedgehog Orchid Aerides crispum Desert Fox Grassland ecosystem in Semi-Arid Zone has its own unique place. Grasslands provide the ecological and economic base of this zone.More Than Just Thorns! Palash Butea monosperma Sariska Tiger Reserve Besides the tiger. Plants of the Semi-Arid Zone Some Dominant Plants Desi Babul (Acacia nilotica). Ronjh (A. Along with Phulera and Didwana salt lakes. the forest here is typical dry deciduous. . The terrain includes undulating plateau lands and wide valleys. wolf. They also support a rich and diverse variety of fauna. caracal. leucophloea). which constitutes the most important area for the flamingos outside the Rann of Kachchh. Sambhar Lake is amongst the largest producers of salt in India. Kattha and Bamboo are common in the valleys. Boswellia serrata and Lannea coromandelica grow in rocky patches. and Aeluropus spp. Mammals like blackbuck. herbivores such as the spotted deer. Neem (Azadirachta indica). gerbil. Sand Grouse Did You Know? The area also has many varieties of medicinal plants like Safed Musli (Chlorophytum spp.). desert fox. sambar and blue bull are found here. bats etc.e. Dhok (Anogeissus pendula). Dramatically changing with the changes in season. Harad (Terminalia chebula) and Amla (Emblica officinalis). deciduous forests. Rohida. Pipal (Ficus religiosa). In the entire world. Some valleys support Palash and Ber. chinkara. Wetlands: Some of the species found are Lemna. Sambhar Lake This is one of the largest inland salt lakes and also a Ramsar Site. They are capable of supporting or converting into incredibly huge amounts of biomass. Nymphaea. Gundi (Cordia crenata). Unlike trees. Dhok is the dominant tree species.. Chloris spp. Heteropogon contortus. and Wolffia. the Wild Ass Sanctuary protects the endemic and endangered Asiatic Wild Ass. They are remarkable as they have short life cycle yet a long life i. Marwadi Gokharu (Tribulus rajasthanensis). they sprout back almost instantaneously.. take a short time from germination to reach maturity. Potamogeton.. Desert Dwellers Wildlife in the desert is as colourful and vibrant as in other zones. Vallisneria. red shank. 78 79 . and thorn forests are dominant here. Some of these desert animals are also seen in semi-arid areas. Littoral and swamp forests are seen near wetlands/water bodies. Palash (Butea monosperma). Hydrilla. Eragrostis spp. Mahua (Madhuca longifolia). Wild Date Palm (Phoenix sylvestris). this salt lake forms a vast saline wetland. Salai guggal (Boswellia serrata). or Marwar Teak (Tecomella undulata). when cut. Harriers are widespread winter migrants to India. grey partridge. demoiselle crane are some other birds of arid areas. are found here. . Asia's finest grassland 'Banni'. is choking wetlands of the region. Chital and Sambar. as the cause of mortality of vultures. Vulture Grasslands and wetlands of the region are home to many species of migratory as well as resident birds. Nilgai. owl. Electrocution Large scale industrialization requires energy in the form of electricity. peafowl. saw-scaled viper. Invasive Aliens The uncontrolled spread of an alien species poses an extreme threat to local vegetation and wildlife. They host the Montagu's. all of which are threatened. Investigations have identified the antiinflammatory drug Diclofenac. butterfly species such as White Arab and Plain Tiger are found in the Indian Desert. The grasslands are the 'common' lands of the community and are the responsibility of none. introduced to combat desertification. Fragile Like Glass This region is extremely fragile. the population of 3 of India's common vulture species has declined by 97 per cent. is getting converted into a homogenous woodland due to the spread of this species. Water hyacinth. But. Reptiles like monitor lizards. dalmatian pelicans. red sand boa.Home for a Host of Animals Greater and lesser flamingos. Intensive use of pesticides in modern agriculture is posing threats to biodiversity. used to treat domestic livestock. Harriers are threatened due to the presence of pesticide residues in their prey insects. In last decade. in Kachchh. Green munia. wagtails. Power The birds. an aquatic exotic plant. vulture etc. They are the most productive ecosystems in the subcontinent. This 81 Limestone Mining Star Tortoise Did You Know? Three out of the four bustard species found in India are seen in the semiarid areas. Lesser Florican and Houbara Bustard. as they feed on the carcasses of these animals containing residues of the drug. the power supply lines sometimes lead to the death of birds. houbara bustard and great Indian bustard are some of the globally threatened bird species found here. white-naped tit. Pallid. it is the open forests of the Semi-Arid Zone that are the habitat for several large animals such as the Lion. but are controlled by none. Grasslands of the Velavadar Blackbuck National Park are the Harriers' largest roosting ground in the world. Tiger. It takes ages for a plant to adapt and establish itself. They are the Great Indian Bustard. and invertebrates like scorpion. 80 . which induces desertification. sociable lapwing. Poison. Once disrupted. Species of crane. Western Marsh and Hen Harriers. ducks. they belong to all. Prosopis juliflora. recovery is extremely slow or sometimes the loss is irreversible. now dominates the local plant varieties.Task Force on Grasslands and Deserts Overgrazing Leopard Special Places for Special Species Contrary to the common belief that big animals live only in thick forests. spider. Overexploitation of vegetative cover exposes the land. Leopard. Meena etc. Bhils. Siddi. Banjaras. Their nomadic lifestyles rely on natural resources. Maldharis are pastoralist communities. Pastoral lands are threatened by development pressures and the growing impacts of climate change. and lifestyles of local communities have evolved in tune with the biodiversity and natural resources of the region. Gujjars. culture. IUCN suggests that in this context a strategy is needed to enable sustainable pastoralist development: improving pastoralists' standard of living whilst protecting the environmental services that their way of life provides. These communities continue to live in close affinity with their environment. Adaptation Features How Do They Help? Camel Hump Stores fat for later use Long eye-lashes Protect eyes from sand Voluntary closure of nostrils Protects from blowing sand Long legs Keep body away from hot ground Cactus Fleshy pads Store water Waxy coating on the stem Prevents water loss Green colour of stem Performs photosynthesis Spines Protect from grazing animals 82 83 . Aahirs. Nat. Several tribes and communities like Bharwad. The day you build permanent homes in grassland. remember the doomsday is close! Pastoralists are traditional custodians of dryland biodiversity and protectors of ecosystem services that are vital for global development. Raikas. Bishnois.was the case in Gujarat where electrocution led to the death of hundreds of flamingos. live in semiarid areas. They have their own ethos that reflects their respect for nature and importance of conservation. Communities. A Jat Maldhari saying goes to the effect: never stop living in temporary homes you build in the grassland as that ensures that you are always on the move allowing the grassland to recuperate behind you. Culture and Conservation The livelihood. region or country). while Surti is a good milk producer. or sign.enhance communities' food security. It has been registered for the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Khadins. Realising the land's capacity to hold moisture he decided to build a lake there. known for its drought tolerance and fibre quality. he could feel cool air rising from the moist pit. a common herdsman of Rajasthan. Malvi. A Little Water Leads to a Lake Meghoji. Sahiwal. when he removed the leaves. beans. once happened to pour a little water left in his kuldi in a small pit and then covered the pit with aak leaves. and adaptive capacity to climate change.Drop by Drop Water Harvesting: Traditional water harvesting structures such as Johads. was used as a source in the development of the internationally known Bikanery Nerma cotton. Work continued for 12 years. step-wells or village ponds have enabled life to flourish in these water-scarce regions. high protein wheat variety with low water requirement. 84 85 . Gir cows are high milk yielders. Rathi. Tankas. Rich diversity occurs in millets. The Malwa Plateau is one of the prime locations for the cultivation and evolution of durum wheat. legumes and grasses. Slowly others also joined him. Gir Cows Sorghum Arid and Semi-Arid Zones contribute 30 per cent of India's food grain! Traditional dry-land farming practices -mixed cropping. Rathi is resistant to adverse desert climatic conditions. Kankrej. He started his venture all by himself. Banni buffalo has good adaptability to harsh climatic conditions and drought resistance. traditional seed storage methods. Versatile and Varied Did You Know? The GI tag is a name. Sahiwal is the best Indian dairy breed. Tharparkar. composting and mulching. 'Bhalia' from the Bhal region in Gujarat is a rain-fed. sesame. Meghoji passed away but his wife continued his work. Kankrej Bullock Gir Kesar Mango Sturdy. which corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin (a town. Mehsani and Jaffarabadi buffaloes are amongst the best milch breeds of buffalo in India. Dangi. The famous cow breeds are Gir. used on certain products. The local landraces of pearl millet are being used globally. grams. Crop Diversity Drought tolerant. Nagori. Harianvi. And in six months the lake was ready. After two days. hardy. Hardy Livestock Diversity These regions possess some of the best breeds of livestock of the world. It was named Lake Bhap which later became Bap Lake. Kankrej. heat resistant indigenous crop varieties from the region make up an extremely important genetic pool. Nagori and Mewati breeds are excellent draught breeds for hot climate. Malvi. Mewati. Sanguineum desi cotton (G7). Kathiawari and Marwari horse are well known horse breeds across the world. Sirohi goat is used mainly for meat. The word 'bhap' (Vapour) came to him. luminescent. Bhairon Dev Lok Van Abhayaranya The Bhaonta – Kolyala community of Rajasthan. Zoological Survey of India. Fitting the earth wire with markers in the form of brightly coloured 'aviation' balls. in 1998. l Central Arid Zone Research Institute. l Desert Regional Centre. l National Research Centre on Camel.Research and Conservation: Some Institutions l Arid Forest Research Institute. social and moral ethos of the local communities. l Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE). bright orange aviation balls fitted on the power lines have helped in reducing collision of wood storks into power lines. shiny or hinged flashing or flapping devices have been shown to reduce bird collision frequency considerably. l Central Institute for Arid Horticulture. Bikaner. Jodhpur. Gandhinagar. with the support of Tarun Bharat Sangh. Efforts to Conserve Conservation values and practices are embedded in cultural. The Bishnoi Community is known for its respect towards nature. Jodhpur. revived their traditional water harvesting structures known as Johads. l Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation. as a result of which the blackbuck population and other wildlife is flourishing here. This resulted in the revival of the river Aravari. and legendary love for animals. l Arid Zone Research Association of India. Bikaner. Karnal. Bhuj. declared the patch as a people's sanctuary. Jodhpur. Avikanagar. They also set up self-imposed rules to conserve the degrading forest lands and. 87 . In Georgia. Jodhpur. l Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute. 86 Learning from International Community One of the major causes of bird mortality (especially for migratory species) is collision with and electrocution by power lines. USA. thickened wire coils. though the overall impact varies from species to species. l Central Soil Salinity Research Institute. Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary is an open sanctuary established entirely on community-owned and private lands of 13 villages of the Bishnoi Community in Firozabad district of Punjab. 89 Efforts to Conserve Government departments. Grazing pressure and encroachment have been reduced. Lion Conservation Programme The Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) was nearly extinct at the beginning of the 20th century with merely 50 individuals remaining in the wild in this single habitat of Gir in Gujarat. and is recognized as the first centre of its kind in Asia. Gujarat Forest Department initiatives and support of the local people have made a tremendous positive impact on the lion's habitat.partnership in the efforts to conserve the Asiatic lion of Gir is probably incomparable in the world. In 1965. As a result 40 per cent of the degraded lands have been converted into open forests. The Haryana Forest Department in collaboration with Bombay Natural History Society has established a Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre at Pinjore. This is the largest collection of the three critically endangered species of vulture at one place anywhere in the world. At present the Centre houses 127 vultures. research institutions and NGOs have joined hands to conserve some of the unique and characteristic species of this region. Vulture Conservation Owing to the rapid decline of the vulture population in India. is the basic philosophy in the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) aided project being implemented in the eastern tribal belt of Gujarat since 2007-08. as the lion's distribution range has expanded. conservation and income generation activities in an integrated manner to reduce dependence of rural poor on forests. the area was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary and the core area was declared as a National Park. in 2006. initiated an Action Plan for Vulture Conservation. the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The number of lions increased from 50 in 1965 to 410 in 2011. Various other areas have also been declared as protected. GoI. Raising Awareness. The project implements forestry. Reducing Pressure Involving local people in the protection and management of forest areas by effective decentralization. The strong government-people 88 . There is a strong cultural and emotional bond between lions and the local community. l It is home to a number of tribes who are the original inhabitants of the region. honey). fruits. are the ancient chain of mountain ranges that run from the southern border of Gujarat down to Kanyakumari. 91 90 . More than 30 per cent of India's biodiversity is found here. animal products (lacquer. interrupted only between Maharashtra and Karnataka by Goa Gap and near Palghat in the southern-most region by Palghat Gap. and the highest peak is Anaimudi (elephant head) in Kerala (2695 m.WESTERN GHATS Western Ghats Mountain chain that rises in Gujarat. of which around 332 are globally threatened species. or 3900 ft. l The average elevation of the mountain range is 1200 m. or 8842 ft). The Western Ghats. ends more than a thousand km away at Kanyakumari. herbal medicine). l The Western Ghats Hill Ranges run to a length of about 1600 Kms. at 30 to 50 km inland along the west coast. l The region is rich in natural resources including plant products (timber. The region harbours remarkable species diversity. It has 15 peaks. or Sahyadris. and mineral wealth (iron and manganese). Godavari. The Western Ghats are identified as one of the world's 8 'Hottest Hotspots'. The Periyar and other smaller rivers like the Sharavati and Mandovi that originate here drain west into the Arabian sea. As it drifted over the localised volcanic centres of the earth. mountain goat. Kaveri – originate here and flow east and join the Bay of Bengal. called the Reunion Hotspots. indicate that the species distribution was once continuous. gave rise to the present day hill chain of the Western Ghats. Increasing human pressures have resulted in the degradation of the region. the second highest annual rainfall in India. granites and granite gneiss. During the break up of the super continent Gondwana 150 million years ago. There are more than 50 major dams. Such resemblance also provide evidences of the movement of the Indian land mass. some bird and fish species. which makes it a critical bio-geographical region for conservation. Once a dense forest. a large part split and moved northwards to collide with the Asian Mainland to become peninsular India. It is one of the three major watersheds of India. laterite. They feed perennial rivers. only one third area now remains pristine. l There are more than 400 forts.l The major rocks found here are basalt. The Western Ghat ranges thus are fault mountains or fault-block mountains due to the uplift along the faults of Deccan plateau. The faults (fractures) caused in the earth's crust during this process between 45 and 65 million years ago. An Ancient Link Studies of the species such as Myristica swamps purple frog in the Western Ghats and Madagascar have shown interesting resemblances providing evidence to the Gondwana split theory. It supplies nearly 70 per cent of the power needs of the Kerala State. Elevation The Breakup of Pangaea Laurasia Which is Older? Gondwanaland What became Indian Peninsula Water Wealth The mountain range is the major water source for 6 states for agriculture and supply of domestic water to more than 245 million people. in Karnataka receives an average rainfall of 7640 mm. long cliffs. The three major rivers – Krishna. The average rain here is about 3000 mm to 4000 mm from the southwest monsoon. of which around 300 are in northern region. Striking similarities between some of the species of the Western Ghats and the Himalayas such as Rhododendron tree. with 288 species of fish. 93 Himalaya or Western Ghats? It is believed that the Western Ghat ranges were in place even before peninsular India became part of the Asian mainland. deep valleys and high potential for erosion. Agumbe. The Western Ghats have been identified as one of the important regions of freshwater biodiversity. series of volcanic eruptions laid down the basaltic sheets or traps resulting in the elevation of its western part. Hence the ranges have high summits. 180 million years ago The Breakup of Pangaea Future India Future Australia 65 million years ago 92 . The Idukki dam built on Periyar river in the Kerala region is the 14th biggest arch dam in Asia. steep slopes. The Western Ghats harvest the monsoon rains. making a visit to the Jog falls a lifetime experience. Endemic Species of the Western Ghats The Tree Fern (Cyathea nilgiriensis) grows wild in the high altitude areas of the southern region of the Ghats. they are called endemic species.The Jog falls in Karnataka is the second highest waterfall in South Asia. Amphibians Reptiles Birds Mammals (2009) 94 95 . Karnataka So many plants and animals species exist nowhere else but here. This high-altitude wild ginger (Amomum nilgiricum) is found only in the evergreen forests of the Nilgiri Hills . Podocarpus (Nageia) wallichianus. High level of endemism is a special feature of the Western Ghats. The Sharavati river takes an 829 feet (253 m) plunge here.500 37 189 135 97 19 18 % endemism 38 11 65 86 62 4 12 This native of the Western Ghats is a recent discovery. before the Indian peninsula parted from it over 150 million years ago. The tropical and humid climate and varied topography of the Western Ghats have given rise to different ecoregions and forest types which support rich biodiversity here. the only gymnosperm tree that is endemic to the southern region of the Ghats.000 334 290 157 157 508 140 Endemic species 1. Did You Know? One of the most primitive flowering plants. the Myristicas had its origin in the swamps of Gondwanaland. The biodiversity here has evolved and adapted with high specialization. Hence. Many plant and animal species found here exist nowhere else in the world. Group Angiosperms Butterflies Fishes Total species 4. Teeming with Life The Jog Falls. Have we lost these species? Liontailed Macaque 129 (40%) Vulnerable 145 (44%) Endangered 51 (16%) Critically Endangered Isolated populations of the nocturnal Malabar large-spotted civet (Viverra civettina) once lived in the Malabar region. or Malabar Tree Squirrel (Ratufa indica). Malabar large-spotted civet Magnificent Mammals Asian Elephant 96 About 140 mammals have been identified in the Western Ghats. Indian Giant Squirrel A Heritage Site is an area of outstanding universal value. identified by the biological and cultural significance to be protected and conserved by the global community. this is endemic to the Nilgiri Hills and the southern Western Ghats and lives in sholas (patches of forests separated by grasslands). It is now endangered due to the degradation of the sholas. and bats. and the colour of its body blends with the background. primarily the forest cover. it is more closely related to the sheep (Ovis genus). The Western Ghats are an important Asian Elephant habitat. Globally threatened species in the Western Ghats (at least 325) The dominant groups are insectivores (those that eat insects) like moles and shrews. However. significant for conservation. which means. Nilgiri Tahr 97 . Endemic and Endangered Liontailed Macaque (Macaca silenus) endemic (not found anywhere else in the world) to the southern Western Ghats is endangered due to the destruction of lush green forests which is their habitat. Now they are critically endangered. The area is biologically rich and has high percentage of plants and animals which are endemic to the region. and rodents like squirrels. It is nearly threatened due to the destruction of trees. lives in the upper canopy of trees. out of which 18 have made the Ghats their only home. The region is threatened by human activities and has lost at least 70 percent of its original habitat. As the name suggests. The Indian Giant Squirrel.A Biodiversity Hotspot The Western Ghats are counted among the world's top eight 'Hottest Hotspots'. This brown squirrel flattens itself on a tree branch when in danger. particularly in the Karnataka region. There are no confirmed records of its recent sightings! The Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) resembles wild goats (Capra genus) of the Himalayas. The Ghats also harbour the second largest population of the critically endangered tiger. All these have made Western Ghats one of the 34 global biodiversity hotspots. they are found nowhere else in the world. which is the only undisturbed home left for these monkeys. Large populations are sighted in Silent Valley in Kerala. The Western Ghats have been nominated and are a strong candidate for becoming a World Heritage Site. Government of India launched Project Elephant in 1992 to protect and conserve elephant populations. 99 . Out of these at least 16 are endemic. which is more than 50 per cent of the total elephant population of India. Major elephant ranges are in the Nilgiris. the spongy growth on the beak. Why? The Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis). l 12 new species and 3 lost species of frogs have been discovered in recent years. Most birds are important pollinating and seed dispersal agents. lizards and snakes are getting added to this list.India Southern Elephant Distribution Stray Herds Malnad-Bhadra North Kanara BandipurMudumalaiNilgiris Nagarhole Nilambur-Palghat Anaimalai-Palani Jungles for Jumbos The Western Ghats support nearly 15. They migrate from one forest to another through strips of vegetation called corridors that connect forests. Ceylon Frogmouth Malabar Grey Hornbill Eastern Ghat Periyar Agasthyamalai Distribution of Asian elephants in Western Ghats Remarkable Reptiles Bird Watchers' Paradise 508 bird species (including 144 aquatic) have been identified in the Western Ghats. Why? The Malabar Whistling Thrush (Myophonus horsfieldii) is called Whistling Schoolboy. Vernal Hanging Parrot (Loriculus vernalis). the Project has identified 30 state corridors and 6 major interstate corridors in the Western Ghats. There are around 157 species of reptiles and 157 species of amphibians identified in the Ghats. a resident breeder in the Western Ghats What is a frog doing here? Look again! It is a bird. flat. Elephants have been an important part of Indian culture and religion from time immemorial. An adult elephant in the wild consumes 100 to 200 kg of vegetation per day from more than 50 plant species. which is prominent in other species of hornbills. Found in the south Western Ghats and Sri Lanka as well. The Ministry of Environment and Forests. hooked bill and a frog-like gape (interior of the open mouth) to catch insects gives it the apt name Frogmouth. This is very important for the regeneration and survival of the habitats. New species of frogs. Did You Know? l 135 out of 157 species of amphibians are endemic to the Western Ghats – not found anywhere else on earth. Elephant population is decreasing due to poaching for their valuable ivory and also due to significant reduction in the forest cover and disappearing corridors. dives vertically and rapidly into water to catch its prey which has little time to escape. Hence elephants require large forest ranges that make up their home (home range). Malabar Grey Hornbill One cannot miss the distinct loud 'cackling'. laughing or screeching calls of the Malabar Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros griseus). Endemic to the 98 The growing list The Western Ghats are truly the centre of herpetofaunal (reptiles and amphibians) diversity in India. Its large. This hornbill particularly is a crucial seed dispersal agent in the Western Ghats. Since migration corridors are vital for elephant conservation.000 Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus). Sri Lanka Frogmouth or Ceylon Frogmouth (Batrachostomus moniliger) is difficult to spot in the tree. Ghats the hornbill lacks casque. Snakes are the major reptile group. a genus of nonvenomous shield tail snakes and primitive burrowing snakes are almost entirely restricted to the South Western Ghat. The splash pattern of the frog (Nyctibatrachus aliciae) conceals the body shape and merges with its background protecting it from predators. parachutes in the air at an angle greater than 45 degrees. The sound is amplified by the vocal sacs that inflate during the call. particularly land snails.About 62 per cent of the reptiles are endemic to the Western Ghats. Pit Viper The Travancore Tortoise (Indotestudo travancorica) is a forest tortoise. Some other butterflies also mimic its warning patterns to avoid predators. the largest butterfly in South India has a wing span of about 6 inches or 15 cm! More common in the Western Ghats. Out of 334 butterfly species reported from the Western Ghats. it is critically endangered. arboreal frog (Philautus luteolus) in the Western Ghats makes loud calls during monsoon. indeed! Crimson Rose butterfly Nyctibatrachus aliciae 100 The small endemic. found in the South Western Ghats. Occurring in a single small location in the Indira Gandhi National Park in Tamil Nadu. The Purple frog (Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis) was found in 2003 in 5 localities around the Palghat Gap area. More than one foot in length.found nowhere else on earth. Its closest relative is in the Seychelles. Arboreal Frog The beautiful scales of the venomous Malabar (Trimeresurus malabaricus) are a designer's delight. It is now endangered due to habitat loss. This frog is called a living fossil – it is the sole surviving member of an ancient lineage. endemic to the South Western Ghats. Some of the species of snakes of Uropeltis. behaviour help them to survive in the Western Ghats. The red colour in its wings gives out warning signals to its predators about its toxicity. it is the highlight in butterfly walks. Southern Birdwing butterfly 101 Survival Secrets Travancore Tortoise Varieties of amazing adaptations in amphibians such as body shape. The tree frog (Rhacophorus pseudomalabaricus). There is also a high diversity of the molluscan fauna. Malabar Pit Viper tink-tink-tink-tink. This is an important evidence of the separation of Madagascar and the Seychelles from the Indian land mass. colour. As the name suggests the Southern Birdwing (Troides minos). Its striking colour warns the predators about its unpalatability due to the toxins it collects from plants. it resides in hill forests at 450–850 m elevation. Splendid colours of survival. due to high rainfall. Its distinct body shape and colour conceals the body outline. Incredible Invertebrate Diversity About 6000 species of insects are recorded from Kerala alone! Among the invertebrate (without backbones) fauna. Observe the inflated vocal sacs. which sounds like . insects form the largest group in the Western Ghats. Spot the frog. 37 butterfly species are endemic. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve alone has 315 species of butterflies! The Crimson Rose butterfly (Atrophaneura hector) is endemic to India and also found in the Western Ghats. 200 species of bryophytes. Sholas play a critical role in regulating water in the Ghats and are ecologically important. Exacum bicolor Forests Endemic Land Snail There are four major forest types in the Western Ghats. Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Forest Is More Than Just Trees Besides 4000 and more higher plants. These are called relic forests. 102 103 . North Western Ghats Montane Rainforests: Cinnamon type of trees dominate. North Western Ghats Moist Deciduous Forests: Teak is the dominant tree species here. 300 species of algae and 800 species of lichens have been identified. they are somewhat isolated from other areas. It is found along water bodies and other moist habitats of the evergreen forests. 320 species of pteridophytes. the tropical forests of the Western Ghats have patches of ancient forests. Found in the valleys at altitudes above 1700 m. 130 are found nowhere else. they are the special features of the Western Ghats. South Western Ghats Moist Deciduous Forests: Predominantly trees of Cullenia genus of the Bombacaceae family like wild durian (Cullenia exarillata) are found here. Of the 267 species of fascinating orchids. Gaur Relic Forests Some of the Last Non-equatorial Rainforests Located in the north of the Equator. Nilgiri Langur. Also known as Shola Forest. Slender Loris and Giant Squirrels. Shola grassland supports rich herbivorous animals including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The forest patches provide them with shelter. yellow. One-third of all the flowering plant species in India are found in the forests of the Western Ghats. Shola: Biologically Unique Landscape Sholas refer to patches of stunted tropical montane rain forests separated by vast. The undergrowth of shrubs and herbs supports varieties of invertebrate fauna and facilitates a steady flow of water making the Ghats water-rich. red to black. Plant diversity increases from north to south of the Ghats. with about 80 per cent of the flowering plant species of the Ghats range. rolling grasslands. Their occurrence is more frequent in parts of Karnataka. The luxuriant rainforest with its thick canopy and three-layer vegetation is nearly impenetrable.The endemic land snail (Indrella ampulla) shows great colour diversity from white. South Western Ghats Montane Rainforests: Most species-rich. They shelter rare and endemic plants and animals. Sholas are treasure house of rare and endemic species as compared with other parts of the Ghats because like islands. They have rich knowledge of the local natural resources. bird calls etc.Original Inhabitants The Western Ghats first came under human influences during the stone age some 12. The Kings of Wayanad Jungles: Kattunayakans Kattunayakan is one of the five primitive tribal groups in Kerala. each tribe has developed unique culture and practices closely linked with nature. religious rituals and daily social life. In Harmony with Nature: The Warli Tribe Living in the northern-most region of the Western Ghats. Declining forests. Expert honey gatherers. Siddis: From East Africa to Uttara Kannada Siddis. Incidences of crimes and begging are on the rise. and harvest of the available resources. The umbilical cord between the tribes and the Ghats are being severed. They believe that Barack Obama. Warli. supposed to have African ancestors have been living in the forests of Uttara Kannada district in Karnataka for the last 400 years. The population of the Todas is less than 1000 today. living in small pockets. Forced out of their traditional way of life and livelihood. have made life difficult for these tribes. This supports the sustainable use. supposed to be of some foreign origin.000 years ago! Tribes of the Western Ghats are the original inhabitants (Adivasis) of the region. the US President shares their genepool! They even wanted to gift him a bottle of honey during his visit to India in 2010! They practise agriculture. Interestingly. they can even tell if there is honey in a hive hanging at a height of 20 m! Nature and social life figure in Warli paintings Sustainable Living The Way of Tribal Life Todas: The Nobles of Nilgiris The well-built Todas. Traditional folk paintings of the Warli tribe revolve around nature. is said to predict the onset of the monsoon using eco-indicators such as the time of the sunset. believe that they are the God-sent lords of the Nilgiris. thereby not competing with the other. collect forest produce like honey. Allowing tribes to lead their traditional lifestyle and/or equipping them to lead a decent life before bringing them to the mainstream are the needs of the day. They are also called Cholanaickan in Nilambur area and Pathinaickans in the plains of Malappuram district. traditional 104 Changing Times Troubled Tribes The tribes today form less than 5 per cent of the population in the Western Ghats. Kattunayakans gather forest produce. They respect life forms and do not hunt unless it is a necessity. tribes are finding it difficult to adapt to the changing lifestyles. each of these tribes uses different resources for their sustenance and livelihood. developmental activities like dam construction. patch work quilts (kawandi or kaudi) stitched by Siddi women are popular the world over. Coexisting with nature. an agricultural tribe. Dairy is the livelihood of this pastoral community. The 'hotspot' status of the Western Ghats defines only the protection of plants and animals. and occasionally hunt small animals. Colourful. There are several tribal communities in the region. forest policies etc. but not of the tribes who live there! 105 Munds (Toda huts) built from mud and bamboo . l No more than 8000 sq km of pristine forest remains. Rose wood (Dalbergia latifolia). commercial forestry and cattle grazing. the only habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr. Baba Budan who introduced Arabic variety of coffee here in the 17th century from just 7 seeds brought from Yemen. Will these animals survive this change? Protecting the Hotspot Biodiversity hotspots are regions that harbour especially high numbers of endemic species and. threatened by human intrusion.The Crumbling Paradise Why are the Western Ghats under threat? Human interference has led to steady and extensive transformation of the Western Ghat habitats eroding much of its rich biodiversity. l Large dams are causing submergence of tracts of prime forests and displacement of indigenous people l Due to the fire used to clear forests for agriculture the vegetation pattern has changed to more fire tolerant species such as catechu (Acacia catechu). l The unique Myristica swamps have been replaced by paddy cultivation. l Significantly altered habitats have disturbed the life support system of the elephants leading to human-elephant conflicts and elephant deaths. Ten areas have been notified across the Ghats as Tiger Reserves. Teak (Tectona grandis) l Extensive plantations of tea (750 sq km). These areas need special protection. degradation being greater and rapid in the southern stretch. 102 species fall under different categories of threat. must first be made inviolate. coffee (1500 sq km) and cardamom (825 sq km) above 1500 m elevation in the Ghats. With the changing lifestyles. Reduction in the forest cover is the major change due to deforestation and forest fragmentation. Coffee from plantations which originated from those 7 seeds is famous. Can any afforestation programme replace the rich pristine forests of the Western Ghats? With the vital ecological services like soil. l Mining is disrupting the large home ranges of elephants. Sacred groves are losing their significance and are fast disappearing. mammals and amphibians being the prominent groups." – Mrs Indira Gandhi 107 . at the same time. the traditional conservation ethics and knowledge are being eroded. 106 Bababudan Giri (hill) in Chikmagalore in the Karnataka Ghat region is named after a Muslim pilgrim. l Climate change is likely to change the character of the forests. there may be a deterioration in shola ecosystem. Its habitat. economic benefits are being lost. tigers and liontailed macaques. In the Nilgiris. have been significantly impacted by human activities. "The tiger cannot be preserved in isolation. One third of the tiger population of India finds protection here. It is at the apex of a large and complex biotope. There are 16 National Parks and more than 47 Sanctuaries. water. The annual deforestation rate is more than 1 per cent. Of the total known fauna. constituted of National Parks and Sanctuaries. temperature regulation. These are spread over 10 per cent of the Western Ghats. which may become isolated by activities such as forest clearing. Giri = Mountain] Why this name? l The blue haze enveloping the hill ranges? OR l The carpet of purplish blue flowers of the shrub. or Wildlife Corridor. Government of India. There are more than 24 peaks in this range. The Reserve also supports the largest single population of elephants and tigers in India. 15 per cent of butterflies and 20 per cent of flowering plants found in India. The KBAs in the Western Ghats help to protect unique species such as the liontailed macaque and purple frog. covering about 5500 sq km. The Ministry of Environment and Forests. Karnataka and Kerala. The Biosphere Reserve is spread across 3 states. is so powerful that it would even bring the dead back to life! Key Biodiversity Areas Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve Recognized globally as one of the most critical habitats for a host of species. 126 Key Biodiversity Areas are identified and delineated in the Western Ghats. It is recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is also being considered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO because of very high plant diversity and endemism at the species level. The Nilgiri hill range was chosen by the Man And Biosphere (MAB) programme as the representative of the Western Ghats by UNESCO in 1986 for long-term conservation. Government of India coordinates the MAB programme. Liontailed macaque (Macaca silenus) Malabar Gliding/flying frog (Rhacophorus malabaricus) Crimson rose butterfly (Atrophaneura hector) Openbill Stork (Anastomus oscitans) Did You Know? l The Neela Kurinji shrub blooms once in 12 years. or Ashamb Hills.15 per cent of India's land area. Corridor Conservation Green Corridor. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve harbours 23 per cent of vertebrates. 109 108 . are situated in the extreme south of the Western Ghats in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The hill is named after the Vedic Sage Agasthya because of the valuable medicinal plants found here. In just about 0. KBAs are areas containing irreplaceable and threatened biodiversity and hence are globally important sites for conservation. in the State of Tamil Nadu.The Blue Mountains Nilgiris [Nil = Blue. requiring large home ranges. It is believed that Boopathi Kuligai. where the Karnataka and Kerala state borders meet. such as the elephant and tiger for re-establishment and breeding. is a patch of habitat that connects populations of wild life. The Abode of Agasthya Agasthyamalai. Tamil Nadu. Neela Kurinji (Strobilanthes kunthianus) that cover these hills? OR l Both? The Nilgiris is the name of the hill range which is over 2000 m high. l The Paliyan tribe used this blooming cycle to calculate their age. fire and so on. one of his herbal preparations. Conserving such areas ensures the conservation of biodiversity in the larger protected area. Such corridors are vital for the movement of animals. among others. traditions and culture. particularly the complexity surrounding the developmental projects and climate change. in Karnataka. How effective are the actions? How precise and prompt are the deliveries? The future of the Western Ghats depends on how positive the answers to these questions are. new challenges are emerging. adopting best practice norms for infrastructure projects. Over 1000 Sacred Groves (Deva kadu) are documented in the district of Kodagu alone. ritualistic dances like Theyyam in Kerala are performed for the deity in connection with the grove protection. Government of India. In many such sites. Sacred Groves are pockets of vegetation preserved on religious grounds and dedicated to various deities by the traditional societies. the Project Elephant. These groves are rich repositories of biodiversity and indicate the type of vegetation that existed. Policy for the Protection of Fragile Mountain Scape National Environment Policy (2006) views mountains (Western Ghats and Himalayas) as entities with “Incomparable Values”. Traditional societies living in the Western Ghats area perceive conservation as a part of their religion. promoting organic farming. the forest god. encouraging sustainable tourism and so on.01 acre to more than 50 acres. The policy has recommended some measures for conservation such as appropriate land use planning and watershed practices. with strict laws and taboos against poaching and felling of trees. with their area ranging from 0. Act Now to save the Western Ghats with their exceptional lifescape before this paradise is lost! Sacred Groves Traditional Way to Conservation Thousands of sacred groves are found in the Western Ghats. The National and State Governments are planning the DNA barcoding project to identify and distinguish species in the Western Ghats. in the distant past in the region. Dedicated to Ayyappa. has identified 30 State corridors and 6 major interstate corridors in the Western Ghats for conservation. launched in 1992 by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. DNA Barcoding DNA barcodes are used in rapid assessment of species from samples. Promising Ventures How secure is the future of the Western Ghats? As the initiatives to conserve the Western Ghats Biodiversity increase. the groves are protected and maintained by the martial community of Kodavas. 110 111 .For instance. with the Kerala State initiating the project in threatened habitats. The Sacred Groves are one of the greatest repositories of ethno-biological knowledge. It is a cheaper taxonomic method that uses a short genetic marker in an organism's DNA to identify the species. Bengaluru An IUCN and Zoo Outreach Organisation joint assessment on global conservation status and distribution of freshwater species confirms the Western Ghats as a significant centre of diversity and endemism for freshwater species. There is considerable interest among the local people and NGOs to revive the tradition of sacred groves along the Western Ghats. India. Government of India is a major benefactor in Western Ghats conservation. World Bank provides funds to save this iconic biome. 113 .P. Kerala. l Centre for Environment Education. Kotagiri. Peechi.Some Organizations Working for Western Ghats Conservation Several development agencies including government organizations. Tamil Nadu Nature Conservation Foundation. The Global Environment Facility. Project Elephant and Medicinal Plant Conservation Areas. and nongovernmental organizations are working towards Western Ghats conservation through policies. Bengaluru Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment (ATREE). 2000) being the major fund. Bengaluru Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). Chennai Foundation for Revitalization of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT). Bengaluru l Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON). research and academic institutions. management. The Hotspot status of the Western Ghats has attracted international funding for conservation. livelihood improvement and so on. With the help of 5 State Governments. Key Stone Foundation. 112 l l l l l l l l l l Coimbatore Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute. with the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF. Chennai l Centre for Ecological Sciences. the Ministry implements major conservation projects such as Project Tiger. surveys. Bengaluru Centre for Animals and Environment. Trivandrum Centre of Excellence in Environmental Economics. as well as NGOs have joined hands in this endeavour.R Environmental Education Centre. Indian Institute of Science. Steps to Save the Western Ghats The Ministry of Environment and Forests. Several research and academic institutions. education. Mumbai Kerala Forest Research Institute. It also takes the help of legislations such as the Forest Conservation Act (1980) to enforce conservation. Mysore Wildlife Conservation Society. research. Ahmedabad l C. 96 of the endemic species are under IUCN Red List category as they are threatened with extinction risk. effective effluent treatment and better solid waste disposal and regulation of tourism in critical habitats. The Western Ghats provides important ecosystem services including food and resources to sustain livelihoods to about 400 million people. attracted global attention in 1970s. Why the name Silent Valley? Absence of cicadas (a species of insect) or the presence of macaques (Macaca silenus)? Find out! Actions required to prevent extinction of the Western Ghats freshwater endemic species include protection of key habitats.Did You Know? Save Silent Valley campaign. prevention of agrochemical use in upper catchments. a people's movement that resulted in the cancellation of hydroelectric project across the river Kuntipuzha. and management of wetlands and rivers are crucial to eliminate public perception of wetlands as wastelands. 115 114 . Management plans need to be developed with community participation to benefit both the many dependant people and the rich biodiversity that these areas support. sustainable use. prevention of flow modifications where possible. conservation of specialized ecosystems such as Myristica swamps. Awareness programmes promoting better understanding of the values. Chhota Nagpur. Deccan Plateau and Deccan South.THE DECCAN PENINSULA The Deccan Peninsula The Deccan Peninsula is a large area of raised land covering about 43 per cent of India's total land surface. then what will happen to the animals? 117 116 . mahua. khair. semal. Think. The common trees of these forests are teak. 1 2 3 4 5 Central Highland Eastern Highland Chhota Nagpur Central (Deccan) Plateau Deccan South 1 3 2 5 Did You Know? Moist deciduous forests may get converted to dry deciduous forests and dry deciduous may become scrub forests as rainfall patterns in India change due to climate change. sandalwood. palash. The monsoon here is brief and occurs in the month of October and December. 4 The Eastern and Central Highlands Moist and Dry Deciduous Forests The trees in these forests usually have broad leaves and they shed the leaves during the dry winter and summer season. These forests retain their leaves through the year. sal. and arjun. It consists of 5 provinces: Central Highland. The largest area under bamboo forests (over 50000 sq km) is in this region. Eastern Highland. wattle. Dry Evergreen Forests extend as a narrow strip along southern coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. shisham. Yellow wattled lapwing 14. Grasshopper 22. Ashy crowned sparrow lark 5. that is after dinosaurs became extinct. Forest owlet 16. Most of the grasses evolved 40 to 50 million years ago after volcanic eruption and Deccan Trap formation. Field mouse 19. Monitor lizard 10. Termite 11. Plain tiger butterfly 20. Indian cobra consists of open. low vegetation characterized by thorny trees with short trunks such as Acacia spp. Black shouldered kite 3. Bay backed shrike 9. Plain tiger butterfly 18. Grey francolin 11. Harvester ant 25. Green keelback 12. mats. Dung beetle 23. Funnel web spider 16. Jungle bush quail 10. Teak tree 14. Cicadas 9. still it is home to a variety of life forms. Thatch grass is used to cover huts. Painted grasshopper The Deccan Plateau Grasslands and Scrub Forests are the predominant vegetation types of Deccan Plateau. nor high in endemism. medicines. perfumes and more. Indian wolf 7. The region is neither exceptionally speciesrich. fodder.Mahua tree 17. Grasses are used for food. Yellow footed green pigeon 13. The annual rainfall here is less than 750 mm. Painted spurfowl 7. Did You Know? The Deccan Plateau was formed from lava flows and volcanic eruptions about 65 million years ago. Palash tree 5. Scrub Forests The Deccan scrub forests are located in the arid parts of the Deccan Plateau. Fan throated lizard 2. Flying squirrel 15. Sloth bear 12. paper. Milkweed plant 17. ropes. Bamboo is also a grass! Bamboo craft includes a variety of items such as baskets. Ratel 19. bows and arrows. Baya weaver 4. and the soil depth is shallow. Tiger 18. This means loss of habitat for the grassland flora and fauna. Blackbuck 6. Indian silverbill 15. poles. Crocodile bark tree 8. Who Lives Here? 1. Giant wood spider 24. This forest type 118 Grasses Sustain Lives and Livelihoods Grasses are integral part of human lives. furniture. Hanuman langur 4. Grasslands Grasslands cover areas where rainfall is usually low. Bulbul 6. 119 . Ber tree 8. but enough to support the growth of grass during the monsoon. The low rainfall does not support the dense growth of large trees and shrubs. Ropes and brooms are also made from grass.Who Lives Here? 1. Rock python 21. Disappearing Grasslands Natural grasslands are being converted into farmland. Great Indian bustard 13. Red jungle fowl 2. Toad 20. into spaces for human habitation and for industrial areas. livelihood and culture. Long billed vulture 3. building materials. in harsh sunlight and rocky soils. Sugarcane is the sweet grass! Grasses Provide Us Our Food! l Grasses are among the most recently evolved plants. maize. l They can grow even in low rainfall areas. The plant plays an important role in improving the fertility and water holding capacity of the soil. l Grass also has flowers and fruits. oats. Rui. fodder production and utilization. seeds or nectar of milkweed Did You Know? Bamboo is the tallest grass. wheat. Animals that Eat Milkweed (Primary Consumers) Locate two animals that eat parts of the plant Locate three animals that feed on nectar Animals that Eat Other Animals that Eat Milkweed (Secondary Consumers) Locate two animals that eat creatures that feed on leaves. Giant milkweed has immense medicinal value. sorghum which are part of our daily food are all seeds of plants in the grass family. l Ribbon-like leaves which are called blades. Aakdo. Take the example of the Milkweed. locally known as Aak. bajra. Golden Bamboo The Food Web l They enrich and stabilize the soil and. Uttar Pradesh is the country's premier research institute in the area of grassland. Rice. therefore. What makes a grass? l Stems called culms which are generally cylindrical and hollow. barley. When the caterpillars hatch they eat the leaves which contain a toxic chemical. This chemical does not affect the caterpillar but makes it unpalatable for birds. Madar. ? Garden lizard Predatory mammal Flowers Ladybird beetle Predatory bird Blade Culm (stalk) Node Sheath ? Giant Milkweed More Than Meets The Eye! There are many common plants which we come across daily but tend to ignore. soil erosion and degradation. Every plant constitutes a small world in itself. l Fibrous roots which form an intricate web under the ground. The Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI) in Jhansi. The plant grows everywhere. because it is toxic. It can grow up to a height of 50 m. Shoot Milkweed Calotropis procera Plain tiger butterfly Stolon Fibrous roots 120 121 . This provides safety from predators. but it is not browsed by cattle.The native grasses are gradually being replaced by less nutritious grasses due to over-grazing. help other plants to grow. rye. Snail Aphids Fruit fly Mantid Carpenter bee Spider Purple sunbird Did You Know? The Plain tiger butterfly lays its eggs on milkweed. forest fires and hunting due to superstitions. blackbuck sometimes enter crop fields. Bauxite mining in reserved forests of Araku valley will destroy the pristine habitats of several endangered flora and fauna. In Danger! The existence of wild animals and plants is in danger. urbanization and sprawling industries have greatly reduced the undisturbed wilderness available for wild creatures to live in. It is endemic to southern India. It is believed that the last one was hunted down in 1947. The bird faces threats like habitat destruction. the Asiatic Cheetah has not been seen in the wild in India since the middle of the 20th century.Jerdon's Courser Named after the British surgeon-naturalist Thomas C. not at night. while others are endangered or threatened. This fairly long-legged ground dwelling bird prefers to run rather than fly. In 1986. it was thought that this bird was extinct. in 1997. Dr. Forest Owlet Unlike other owls. If their habitat is not conserved. Forest Owlets are also found in Melghat in Maharashtra and some parts of Madhya Pradesh. extraction of fire wood. For a long time. This owl is endemic to the dry deciduous. Forest Owlet Thought to be extinct. Besides Nandurbar. Its habitat is being destroyed by quarrying. But. Bharat Bhushan. 122 Cheetah 123 . Gone Where is the Asiatic Cheetah? Some species are now believed to be extinct. teak-dominated forests of Central India. the Forest Owlet is up and about during the day. With reduction in grassland habitat and conversion to farmlands. we might lose them forever. Once the top predator of the Deccan grasslands. and its range is mainly the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh. It was last seen in 1884. Jerdon who described it in 1848. rediscovered after 113 years! The Forest Owlet was first described in scientific literature in 1878. With the loss of habitat there is also loss of the flora and fauna of this habitat. Jerdon's Courser Locally known as Kalivi Kodi. The Jerdon's Courser is classified as Critically Endangered as it is thought that no more than 200 individuals remain. this bird is active at dawn and dusk. It lives in sparse scrub forest. a team of scientists surveying the forests found it again in the Nandurbar district of Maharashtra. the Forest Owlet is still classified as Critically Endangered. sightings of this bird were reported till the early 1900s. The natural habitats of the Deccan Plateau and Highlands are rapidly deteriorating due to a number of reasons. cattle grazing and conversion of the forest areas to farms. a researcher from the Bombay Natural History Society and a local person were able to locate the bird again. Construction of dams. There are 9 species of Coursers worldwide. It is currently known to exist only in Sri Lanka Malleswara Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh. As only about 100 individuals have been found so far. The remaining wild buffaloes in India total less than 4. It is also used to make pickle and chutney which taste like ginger. The plant is listed as endangered due to habitat destruction. Karnataka. The wood is illegally traded for its medicinal value. south of the dividing line whereas Rhesus Macaques are found above the Tapi. extensive fragmentation and loss of their forest habitat Rhesus Macaques have extended their geographical range into the southern peninsula which is Bonnet Macaque's range. It is bigger in size and heavier. The plant roots are used in ayurvedic medicine to treat wound. It is commercially valuable for extraction of dye and cosmetics. Rakt Chandan Competing for Space Rhesus and Bonnet Macaque The Godavari river in east-central India and the Tapi river in the western part of the country form the dividing line for the distribution of Bonnet Macaque and the Rhesus Macaque. it is found in the forests of Maharashtra. This is leading to competition for food and space between the two species. haemorrhage. Due to rapid urbanization. with numbers less than 40 individuals. Yenadi tribes of Andhra Pradesh prepare traditional drink from it called Nannari. The Udanti and Indravati wildlife sanctuaries in the State of Chhattisgarh are the only places in Central India where genetically 'pure' wild buffalo population is concentrated. Rhesus Macaque have a large habitat range and they adapt easily. Wild Buffalo Plants in Peril Rakt Chandan (Pterocarpus santalinus) This tree species which is endemic to the Deccan area is widely used for timber and in medicines to treat injuries. illegal trade and over-exploitation for its medicinal value. is smuggled and fetches a high price as the Zitan furniture (famously called King's Furniture) in China is made from this wood. Swallow Root 124 125 . arrest bleeding and treat skin disorders. Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Swallow Root (Decalepis hamiltonii) An endemic and endangered medicinal plant of Peninsular India. Rakt chandan. The tree is listed as endangered. i. with majestic horns.e. or red sandalwood. bronchial asthma.000. Bonnet Macaques are restricted to peninsular India. reduce burning sensation. fever.Going? The Last Wild Buffaloes The wild buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is the ancestor of the domestic water buffalo. This drink cools the system and purifies blood. 126 . In Akola and Washim districts of Maharashtra. mittichitra. They are also playing a critical role in grassland improvement. numerous plants and animals. Dharohar Samiti.People with a Long History Tribal communities have been present in the Deccan peninsular region for thousands of years. The ban on snake hunting for skins deprived the Irulas of their main source of livelihood. kodo and kutki. 127 Kurubas: traditional sheep keepers Baiga: semi-nomadic. which is used in making medicine for snakebite and some blood disorders. These have been developed and cultivated over generations by Gond. Conserving Traditional Rice Varieties The knowledge. The Kolam's custom of leaving some trees in the forest untouched as 'sacred abodes of god' shows their understanding and commitment towards conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. fishing and shifting cultivation for their subsistence. In 1978. Bastar in Chhattisgarh has over 5000 traditional varieties of rice and millets such as ragi. Madia and Kamar practise huntinggathering. Madia. Some other tribes are: l l l l People and Practices Snake venom for livelihood! The traditional knowledge and skills of tribal communities are being used in mainstream economic and conservation activities. dances. Irulas: Snake-Catchers The Irulas are hunter-gatherers by tradition. Over millennia these communities have developed knowledge of. and close relationship with. The Society is engaged in extracting snake venom which is then crystallized and supplied to various laboratories in India for experiments and making antivenin. Katkari. Kolam: Expert Honey Collectors Kolam tribe harvests honey from trees as high as fifty feet in darkness with little support. Srujan. to match productivity of hybrid varieties. Walls are decorated with clay relief work. Bhatra and other tribal groups. they have improved productivity of these crops in an organic way. a local tribal farmers' group in Kondagaon area. practices and cultural values of tribal communities are a valuable resource for modern conservation work. Tribes like Kolam. an organization working with this community has initiated a 'Non-violent' honey extraction method without destroying bee hives. They possess invaluable knowledge of wildlife and their habitats. Through the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) technique. do not plough the earth out of respect for it Bhoi and Koli: fishing communities in Maharashtra Bhil: rich cultural tradition visible in their songs. is conserving over 260 traditional varieties of rice and millets. Phase Paradhi: Hunters Who Protect Phase Paradhis are traditional hunters skilful in trapping methods. and paintings. This also helps to conserve crop diversity and maintain the ecological integrity of this agro-climatic region. they helped in recording 11 sightings and protection of three nests of Lesser Florican. stories and art. Irulas Snake-Catchers Industrial Cooperative Society was formed. Halba. Their expertise in catching snakes is legendary. not recorded in last 30 years in Maharashtra. Aseels are bred for cockfight games due to their aggressive tendencies. They are able to withstand the local weather changes. Mecheri. it is a productive option for the poor in this dry region. and Sangli in Maharashtra. Kuruba and Golla in Maharashtra. Osmanabadi. 128 129 . shepherds and craftsmen. Coimbatore. It is suitable for draught. which gets its name from Osmanabad in Maharashtra. an erstwhile princely state in Karnataka. Kolhapur and Satara districts of Maharashtra. Thus. The Osmanabadi Goat. It is a strong dog capable of great speed and stamina. who named them “the Hounds of Mudhol”. this indigenous breed is valued for its meat. This breed is found not only in Mudhol but widely throughout the Deccan. sword-shaped horns. Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh respectively. Goat rearing requires little investment and is not labour intensive. Sangamneri. Deoni cattle This breed is found mainly in Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Madras Red. It is woven from the black wool of Deccani Sheep reared by shepherd communities known as Dhangar. Bidar in Karnataka and adjoining parts of Andhra Pradesh. agility and ability to escape predators. It is easily identified by its long. Dangi and local cattle. Red Jungle Fowl Baa Baa Black Sheep! The Deccan Peninsula has a little more than half the sheep population of the country. Hooves and Horns Selective breeding over 200 years and a new breed is born! The domestic breeds are well adapted to specific local conditions and needs.Cock a Doodle Doo! From Forest to Game Arena Aseel Bred from the Red Jungle Fowl in East Godavari region. is known for its tasty meat. The region has more than ten breeds: Deccani (Bellary). this breed is popular for its adaptability and tasty meat. Mudhol Hound Goat The region has about a third of the goat population of the country. Kannaiadu are the important breeds. Kilaikarsal. Hound Named after a Princely State Mudhol Hound The Raja of Mudhol. Pandharpuri buffalo This breed is native to the dry regions of Solapur. Tiruchy Black. It has been developed within the last 200 years by selective breeding among Gir. Kadaknath Native to Central India. and the Solapur. and diseases. Sangar community in Maharashtra has specialized in weaving ghongadi. Khillari cattle This breed is found in the Bijapur district of Karnataka. Mandya. Ramnad White. This highly adaptable sheep provides livelihood to farmers. Kolhapur. Did You Know? Ghongadi is the traditional woollen blanket of Maharashtra and Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh. Kengiur and Vembur. Nilgiri. Nellore. They can feed on locally available plants. is said to have presented a pair of hound puppies to King George V of England. Foxtail Millet It is one the world’s oldest cultivated crops. has recorded about 19000 rice varieties from Chhattisgarh. Pearl Millet. the seeds used as cereal or grains. Millets are specially suited to this region because of their adaptability to grow in water-scarce areas. or Ragi Rich in calcium Native of Ethiopian Highlands.19000 varieties in Chhattisgarh alone! Millets are a group of small-seeded species of grasses. resistance to diseases. nutritional value. or Jowar Source of energy One of the most important staple foods of millions of poor people in the semi-arid tropics of Asia and Africa. Proso Millet Requires very little water An excellent crop of dryland as it requires little water and grows in 6090 days. H. or pigeon pea. this was introduced in India about 4000 years ago. and grafting to enhance taste. Eight millet species are commonly grown in Deccan Peninsula. l In Puri. Richharia. or Bajra Source of iron and protein It can grow where other cereals like wheat and maize cannot. and heat and drought resistance capacity.brought to India 4000 years ago! Rice . TYPES OF CEREALS FOUND IN THE REGION Sorghum. over centuries. Did You Know? l A leading expert on rice in India. Its closest wild relatives (Cajanus cajanifolia) occur in forests of Odisha. They can be cultivated round the year. The eastern part of peninsular India is the centre of origin of Toor. Farmers and scientists developed improved crop varieties through selection. yield. selected some of the species to cultivate. Kodo Millet High fibre content Domesticated in India almost 3000 years ago. Little Millet Domesticated in India It grows even in dry weather. 130 131 . cross-breeding. From the great variety of wild species of plants human beings have. a different variety of rice is offered to Lord Jagannath every day! How many varieties of rice do you eat? Find out what different varieties are used for different dishes. drought tolerance etc. Stalks are good fodder for cattle. Barnyard Millet Fastest growing It produces a crop in six weeks.Celebrating Cereals Ragi . Wild Ancestors The plants and animals we have domesticated have originally come from wild varieties. Dr. R. Finger Millet. including a male calf and one female of the wild water buffalo. The species is classified 'endangered' and listed in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act. Birdlife and Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). Bustard species are regarded as indicators of grassland ecosystems. These include special sanctuaries to protect the highly endangered Great Indian Bustard and Jerdon's Courser. Madhya Pradesh. Gujarat and Karnataka. traditional pastoral activities during the non-breeding season. Uttar Pradesh. 1972 and in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.Government Efforts Government of India has established several wildlife Protected Areas to conserve flora and fauna in the wild. This is the Forest Offence Management System which helps in registering forest offences electronically on GPS-facilitated PDAs at the location of offence itself. Wild Buffalo 133 . The highlight of the project is to link local livelihoods with bustard conservation. There are 116 wildlife sanctuaries and 21 national parks in Deccan Peninsula. Communication and Technology (ICT) initiative for effective monitoring of wildlife and conservation of forests. The plan aims at ensuring zero unnatural deaths of the remaining individuals. This is part of the Udanti Wild Buffalo Recovery Project which aims to stabilize the wild buffalo population.e.The Ministry of Environment and Forests has initiated the GIB Recovery Project in the five states of their occurrence i. permitting only low intensity. By conserving the bustard and their habitats a very large number of species dependent on healthy grassland will be protected. This initiative has inspired States like Jammu & Kashmir. Madhya Pradesh has launched a unique Information. The lone female buffalo and her male calf are being kept in a spacious enclosure within the sanctuary for their safety. Bihar. set up a profitable and equitable mechanism to share revenues generated from eco-tourism with local communities. PDA phones have round-theclock satellite link. Conserving Great Indian Bustard The Great Indian Bustard (GIB) has been categorized as 'critically endangered' by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). State-specific. Additional females from closelyrelated populations are to be brought in for breeding in Udanti. Jharkhand. ICT for Conservation The Forest Department. The recovery plan includes three-tier strategies: at national level. identify core breeding areas and keep them inviolate from human disturbances. Maharashtra. Great Indian Bustard 132 Wild Buffalo Recovery Project It was found that Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh had only seven individuals. Karnataka. and Site-specific conservation. and habitat improvement. Rajasthan. Haryana and Rajasthan to adopt the same system.The Forest Department has given Personal Digital Assistants (PDA) to all Beat Guards in Kanha National Park and Satpura Tiger Reserve to enable them to immediately report offences. Community Efforts Biodiversity on Wheels The Mobile Biodiversity Festival is a unique conservation and cultural campaign initiated in 2001 by the Deccan Development Society in Andhra Pradesh. discussions are held with farmers about local seed varieties. the participation of farmers in the festival has increased greatly. and also about other agriculture-related issues. and the jatra of the caravan ends a month later at the Central Community Seeds Shrine run by women farmers. as per the provisions of Biological Diversity Act. International Crops Research Institute for the SemiArid-Tropics (ICRISAT) developed a new variety called ICTP 8203 similar to MBH 110.Benefit Sharing Enabled India has taken significant legislative measures for ensuring Access and Benefit Sharing.000/. from a Bajra variety found in the northern Togo in Africa. Over the decade.has been given to Amarchinta Biodiversity Management Committee in Mahboobnagar district of Andhra Pradesh. The annual festival begins on Sankranti Day. Displayed in the carts are hundreds of traditional varieties of seeds of the Deccan dryland region. At every village along the route. the royalty amount of Rs. Food festivals of traditional dishes and screening of films are the other highlights.20. 134 135 . The festival features a caravan of bullock carts that move from village to village. Conserving the Gene Pool An early-maturing and large-seeded hybrid of Bajra variety MBH 110 was wiped out due to downy mildew epidemic disease in 1989. for the export of neem leaves to Japan. This has been enabled through the National Biodiversity Authority. In one such case of benefit sharing in the country. Conserving Local Biodiversity The Deccani sheep is being conserved in Solapur district. energy. The agency provides technical and policy advisory services.The festival symbolizes the celebrations of the agrobiodiversity of the region and a sense of pride in the local crops. an organization started by women veterinary scientists. A New Way of Thinking IUCN's Livelihoods and Landscape Strategy (LLS) initiative represents a new way of thinking from focussing on threats to promoting negotiated plans for productive landscapes. and Solapur districts. and the Kaptipada and Baisingha Forest Ranges. 136 137 . Bangalore. To achieve this. water. health and the private sector. Mayurbhanj district in Odisha. Africa and South America. Maharashtra and in Medak district. the Shiwalik foothills in Haryana. animals and their relationships with local culture. Pune. Ahmednagar. Interested farmers and local school groups are also conserving traditional millets. The project has support of United Nations Development Programme. The programme also promotes the exchange of expertise and best practices with traditional medical practitioners across Asia. and State governments and organizations across India. Foundation for Revitalisation of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT). fodder seeds and medicinal plants. Conserving Medicinal Plants Indian government has incorporated traditional medical practices and the conservation of medicinal plants into existing national health and forestry policies. cattle and goat in Medak. Karnataka coordinates the activities of the state and local partner agencies in nine states of India. pulses and oil crops. Satara. The LLS initiative has worked in two sites in India. LLS goes beyond forest management and links positively with other sectors such as agriculture. Ministry of Environment and Forests as the main implementing partner guides efforts to ensure the sustainable development of medicinal plants and to promote and protect the livelihoods of the rural population. Andhra Pradesh by Anthra. LLS provides for immediate needs while supporting long term changes that will improve human well being and resilience. local breeds of poultry. l Coasts include more than just the sea shore or beach. deltas. sandy coasts. Bhuj District in Gujarat) there is a 0. the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) 2011 Notification. This is an evidence that once this area may have been on the shoreline. for regulation purposes. mud flats. l 9 states and 4 Union Territories of India have a coastline. In India. backwaters. Did You Know? l Every fourth Indian lives within 50 km of the seashore. sea grass beds. and coral reefs. estuaries.THE COASTS THE ISLANDS Coasts Where Sea Meets Land l The coastal zone can be described as that part of the sea which is affected by land and that part of the land which is affected by sea.7 ha land-locked patch of mangroves. which is located 100 km from the seashore. near the Shravan Kavadia temple (in Lodai village. They comprise habitats such as cliffs. 139 138 . l Salinity. states that coastal zone is 500 m on the landward side from high tide line and up to 12 nautical miles seaward from the low tide line. rocky coasts. waves and tidal actions are the major factors that affect the biodiversity of the coasts. lagoons. l 3 of the 4 metropolitan cities in India are located along the coast. mangrove forests. l The extent of the coastal zone varies with location and time! For example. salt marshes. e. Java. sand bars or shingle spits. An Enchanting World In the marine world you can see 'deserts' of sand dunes. Estuaries are highly productive ecosystems and abodes of rich biodiversity. among others l more than 180 species of benthic algae l 14 species of sea weeds l 12 species of sea grasses l 108 species of sponges l 4 species of lobsters Did You Know? Mumbai is actually an archipelago (group or cluster) of 7 islands. after the Patos Lagoon in Southern Brazil. The animal and plant life is incredible in its diversity. Nicobar. 141 Painted Storks in Chilika Lagoon Coastal Space: ranges from 100 km landward to 50 m seaward National Park. It is a Ramsar Site. l The coastline of India is 7516 km long. Sumatra.g. They may be volcanic in origin. The Gulf of Khambhat in Gujarat has the second largest tidal range in the world. These support the important salt industry. and the Lakshadweep islands.g. The Indian coasts host. Chilika Lagoon. Some may be formed due to corals. e. Lakshadweep coast line 132 km and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands coastline is 1962 km. Greenland. spread over 1165 sq km. l A Gulf is a large area of a sea or ocean partially enclosed by land. l The major island groups of India are the Andaman and Nicobar 25 m 37. Largest in India l Chilika Lake in Odisha. l The Marina Beach in Chennai. Island Types Continental: These lie on the continental shelf and are mostly volcanic in origin. the mainland coastline is 5422 km. Tamil Nadu. Andaman. coral reef. l Estuaries are water bodies where there is mixing of freshwater from river and salt water of the sea. l Salt pans are a common feature of coastal states of India. Sri Lanka. a wetland of international importance. Of this. is the largest lagoon in Asia and second largest in the world. e.g. 140 . and has amazing adaptations to the marine world. Landward side 12. The Bay of Bengal is an example. is the world's second longest beach.5 m 50 m islands. Oceanic: These do not lie on the continental shelf. l The Gulf of Mannar in Tamil Nadu has 21 islands and Marine Our Coastline India has the world's seventh longest coastline.5 m 10 l 600 species of crabs l 103 species of echinoderms l 2546 species of fishes 50 Seaward side m Surrounded by Sea l An island is a landmass surrounded by water.Islands 0k m. l A Lagoon is a shallow lake of salt water separated from sea by offshore islands. 'forests' of sea grasses and mangroves. Lakshadweep. It appears as a continuous land mass because of the land reclamation and rapid urbanization. and spectacular coral reefs. Jamnagar in Gujarat has 42 islands. l A Bay is a large body of sea water surrounded by land on three sides. The Clownfish avoids its enemies by staying nestled among the Anemone's stinging tentacles. improvement of the ecosystem and overall eco-development programmes with the community. brackish and freshwater ecosystems with estuarine characters. and have tiny stinging cells in their tentacles. They have gill slits but no nerve cord. Over the last two decades. opening of mouth to the sea. Did You Know? l Is 'Jellyfish' a fish? l The jellyfish is not really a fish. l Chilika supports rich and varied wildlife – the highest density of the Irrawaddy Dolphins. both in 2002.l Chilika is a unique assemblage of marine.53 sq km of Nalaban area) and the rest is "Closed Area" under the provisions of Wildlife (Protection) Act. Hints to the Past l Balanoglossus is an “evolutionary link” between invertebrates and vertebrates. l The lagoon includes the Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary (15. In return. Their fossilized shells are found in the Kali Gandaki valley of the Himalayas. To address these issues. The Humboldt squids are intelligent and hunt in groups exhibiting cooperation and communication. etc. indicating the presence of sea once upon a time in that area. 1972. Chilika: A Success Story Chilika lagoon was designated as 'Ramsar Site' in 1981. This adversely affected the livelihood of the local community. As a result the ecosystem has been restored to a great extent and there has been improved livelihood of the community. 143 . the Chilika Development Authority (CDA) was formed in 1991 under the aegis of Forests and Environment Department. 167 species of migratory and resident birds. the CDA has implemented a variety of measures e. This is an example of mutually beneficial relationship called symbiosis. About 97 per cent of all species found in the sea are invertebrates (animals without backbone). Planktons are microscopic organisms that provide the basic source of food for aquatic life-forms. It has nine eyes and copper-based blue colour blood. desiltation of lead channels. The Anemone also gets nutrition from the faeces of the Clownfish. l Ammonites (coiled marine molluscs) are an extinct group of marine invertebrates. l Squids are the largest invertebrates on earth. Around the same time. They belong to the phylum Coelenterata. A giant squid's eyeball can be as big as a basketball! It can change its colour to suit its surroundings. l Horseshoe Crab is known as a 'living fossil' because it is almost Horseshoe Crab identical to the species present during the Triassic period (230 million years ago). it protects the Sea Anemone from its predators like butterfly fish. Odisha. catchment area treatment. useful partnership. are found as free swimmers (moving with waves and currents). l Amazing Partners: The Clownfish and the Sea Anemone have a Amazing Life In The Sea Sponge-Crab Association 142 Life can be found even in the deepest and darkest corners of the sea. ecological factors and human activities were putting severe pressure on the lagoon. fishery resource development. They range from primitive sponges (Spongilla) to the complex echinoderms (starfish).g. CDA got the international Ramsar Wetland Award and also the Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar. Full Of Fish 2546 species of fish have so far been recorded along the Indian coasts. Seaweeds are macroscopic algae found largely in shallow coastal waters. The 'Hilsa' swims up from sea to rivers and 'eel' migrates from freshwater rivers to sea for spawning. Green Turtle. Europe. Palk Bay. which helps stabilise sediment. The Dugong (seacow). Gahirmatha in the state of Odisha is the world's largest rookery (mass nesting site) for Olive Ridleys. This keeps the coastal waters clear. the State Animal of A&N Islands. India has 12 varieties belonging to 6 genera. l Whales are mammals of the deep sea. sandy beaches. Asia.Habitats And Inhabitants As the homes so the occupants. Seagrass beds are the feeding grounds for marine animals like dugongs. They have specialized pigments for absorbing whatever minimal sunlight falls on the coastal waters. the largest crocodile in the world. 144 145 . Mudskippers Sundarban Tiger Puffer Fish Plants In The Sea The base of the marine food web is invisible. crabs. If its population dwindles the food web can be drastically disturbed. Green Sea Turtle The dominant group of vertebrates (animals with backbones) in the sea is made up of fishes although the marine vertebrates range from tiny fishes to giant whales. Diverse species have characteristic features that help them to live in their specific habitats like mud flats. Did You Know? l Out of 58 varieties of seagrasses in the world. estuaries. l Sundarban Tigers are well adapted to mangrove forests with a lean and athletic build. turtles. Sea to Sand l Sea Turtles: Five species of sea turtles – Olive Ridley. is also found in mangrove forests in estuaries. sometimes come close to the coast. So special! The special aquatic adaptations like gills to extract oxygen and salt from water. streamlined shape of the body and fins help the fish swim swiftly in water. water lizards and other aquatic animals. In the Mangroves l Mudskippers: These walking fish can breathe through their skin. Seagrass absorbs nutrients from coastal run-off. They prey on fishes. Guests from Abroad: The Indian Coasts are host to lakhs of migratory birds arriving from Siberia. l Saltwater crocodile. Leatherback and Loggerhead – come to the Indian coasts for nesting every year. Hawksbill. is a keystone species in the seagrass ecosystem. Microscopic marine plants – phytoplankton – form the basis of the marine food web. Its special ability to excrete salt is one of the adaptive features for living in the estuarine habitats. lagoons. they are mammals living in water. Andaman & Nicobar islands and Lakshadweep islands are well known for seagrasses. Arabia and Mongolia. crawl and jump on mud flats. Seagrass is the only flowering plant that can live underwater in the sea. Keystone species A keystone species is a species that exerts major influence on the structure of the ecosystem. prawns and fishes. l Gulf of Mannar. Hence they are found in Did You Know? l Dugongs and Dolphins are not fishes. mangroves. Some fishes migrate from river to sea and vice-versa for spawning (egg laying and sperm discharge). Coconut and Palm tree. fish resources. Horse-tail Sea Oak. topsoil formation and fertility Cultural & spiritual. and plays a significant role in livelihood. e. Mangrove Ecosystem Services Stilt (Aerial) Roots 146 Food. It is used for food and shelter. Giant Milk Weed. Hilsa fish is an example of anadromous fish. Green Algae. Seaweeds also have other adaptations like holdfasts instead of roots. Each coral is called a polyp of a sea anemone and lives inside a cup of calcium carbonate (limestone). Educational & scientific information.. The predominant species are Beach Sedges.different colouration and are accordingly classified into: Blue-Green Algae. and shelter to many animals Coral: Stone. cyclones 147 . stems and leaves. pesticides. Global factors such as climate change. Cocos on coast The coconut tree (Cocos nucifera) is predominant along the Indian coast with incredible adaptations to the saline environment and sandy soil. flowering plants growing in intertidal region along creeks. eel) and anadromous fish (migrating from sea to river for breeding). Sea Grass Did You Know? l About 60% of the coral reefs of the world are found in the Indian Ocean l Most of the coral reefs of the Indian ocean are Atolls l Greatest coral diversity is found in the Andaman and Nicobar islands. Support in nutrient cycling. They have stilt (aerial) roots for support and breathing during water logging. Plant Or Animal? Corals are tiny animals living in colonies in the sea. Stilt (aerial) root for support during water logging Provides breeding. Beach Morning Glory.g. It is said that every part of the coconut tree has important uses. feeding. estuaries and river deltas. Coral Reefs Coral reefs are colonies of tiny corals found in marine waters. It has a mouth at the top surrounded by tentacles that help to capture food. sewage and dredging are threatening the health of the reefs. They are very fragile ecosystems and indicate the health of the overall marine ecosystem. The coconut fruits can float for thousands of miles in the sea until they are cast onto a sandy shore and eventually sprout to life. Brown Algae and Red Algae. medicines. glistening algae to the gallery of sea grasses and seaweeds. culture and lifestyle of the coastal communities. Recreation Thick succulent leaves to minimize evaporation salt glands to extract salt Tsunami Soldiers and more.. shoreline erosion. pollution caused by oil spills. and leaf blades for photosynthesis. to hold firmly on any place. Multipurpose Mangroves Vivipary germination Floral Paradise From colorful. livelihoods Protection from floods. Plants along the shore There are 338 species of coastal sand dune flora found in Indian coasts. The vegetation of the Indian coasts is unique in forms and functions. stipes to keep them upright. Your roots are showing! Mangroves are a group of specialized woody. The diagram shows some more adaptations. Mangrove habitats are also a migratory path for catadromous fish (fish migrating from river to sea. l Overexploitation of fishery resources. Port operations 149 148 . explosives and fire retardants. l There are 13 major and 185 minor ports along the coastline of India. bromine. l Dredging and mining of shore sand leading to shore erosion and Sea erosion Salt of the Sea Can anyone think of a delicious dish without salt? flooding. oil spills. calcium. l The farmers of Goa. sea level rise. jams. coastal ground water overexploitation. hot water Did You Know? l Carrageenan extracted from red seaweed is used as a thickening agent in cakes. Coasts Under Threat Livelihood Gifts From Sea There are 3322 fishing villages in India employing over 14 million people. About 50 per cent of the total marine fish production in India is from nearshore waters. dyes. discharge from thermal power plants. l Materials extracted from sea sponges have antibiotic and antifungal properties. pigments. l Pearls from Pearl Oyster are used in jewellery. shaving cream. Artificial pearl expanse of water) l Atoll (roughly circular ring of reefs) Salt Farming culture is carried out in Thoothukudi. chewing gums. l Agar from brown algae is used in bakery products. l Every day. caught by traditional fishermen. textiles. jellies. sewage and effluent disposal. and also in cosmetic products like toothpastes. urbanization and industrial establishments that convert coastal habitats. silicon and tin and other solid waste is being released into the sea in India! are extracted from the sea water.S. cardboard. Deposits of radioactive elements like thorium are found on the seashore of Kerala and Odisha. Coasts and islands are facing threats from a variety of factors – human activity-related as well as natural. shampoos. about 18240 million (1824 crore) litres of untreated sewage is being discharged into the sea in India! l Every day. about 34 million (3 crore and 40 lakh) tons of garbage Horseshoe Crab caught in a net Agriculture Essential Elements from the Sea l Minerals like iodine. Kerala. magnesium. coral bleaching.Types of Coral Reefs l Fringing reefs (grow close to the shore) l Barrier reef (grow away from the shore and are separated by wide l Algins from brown algae are used in paints.O. changes in ocean currents. l Climate change impacts like increase in sea surface water temperature. Tamil Nadu. Fishing S. l Salt production through salt pans is a common feature of all coastal states of India. l Pollution. paper. Tamil Nadu and West Bengal cultivate more than 10 varieties of salt-tolerant paddy in saline low land areas. ice creams and microbial culture media. The cumulative impact of port-related activities harms coastal biodiversity. l The islands have no forests and no endemic plants. mussels. It allows large animals like turtles to escape in case they are accidentally caught in the net. cyclones. 150 151 . l Coconut groves are the predominant vegetation. this island group includes 36 islands of which 11 are inhabited. These are known as bio-indicators. TED is extensively promoted by Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Environment and Forests. Hawksbill and Green Turtles. All these harbour a variety of plants and animals. Ted To Trounce Turtle Trap Turtles are often caught in fishing nets. thus. a Turtle Excluder Device (TED) has been invented. reef and the deep sea provide the islanders with their flooding. a concentration of these metals in its tissues can indicate the level of pollutant load. coral reefs. The islands have some of India's best nesting beaches for three species of marine turtles: Leatherback. storm surges. Fishing trawl net with TED Noddy (Anous stolidus) The Coral Islands l The word 'Lakshadweep' in Sanskrit means one lakh (laksha) islands (dweep). They give an early warning of the deteriorating health of the ecosystem. This has resulted in the conservation of endangered sea turtles significantly. coastal l The lagoon. l Common sea birds are Taratachi (Sterna fusca) and Common environment. 301 species of plants that are endemic to A&N islands. lagoons and the sea. l Some of these islands are made up of coral formations. pearl oyster. Did You Know? 406 medicinal plants have been recorded in A&N islands. This has led to the evolution of flora and fauna that are not found anywhere else. e. Did You Know? Each island is fringed by large lagoons on the western side and by rocky formations on the other three sides. no snakes on these islands! l The coral reefs and lagoons have rich species diversity.food. construction materials. TED is a frame installed in the trawl net used for fishing. sponges. Lakshadweep There are no dogs. 8 species of bats. and others Rani crab l Haliclona tenuiramosa is a marine sponge which absorbs heavy metals present in sea water and. of rocky formations and large lagoons. for use by marine trawl boat owners and fishermen. In fact. Plants and animals found in a particular area but not anywhere else in the world are called endemic species. Most of the Coral with open polyps plants have been introduced from the Indian mainland and other countries. and livelihood resources such as fishing and coconut cultivation. To prevent this. Early Warning System l Some species capture signals of the biological conditions in the basic needs .l Natural hazards such as tsunami. Government of India.g. l Sea urchins are used as bio-sensors for the effects of ultraviolet radiation. l There is a continuous interaction of coral reef. Andaman and Nicobar Islands About half of all the plants and animals found here are not found anywhere else in the world! The Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) islands have been isolated from the mainland for millions of years. There are 95 species of birds. and NGOs are working towards marine biodiversity conservation and coastal management. tear away the outer cover and feed on the flesh inside. International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution From Ships (Marine Pollution Convention) is one of the international attempts towards the management of coasts and islands. MARINE PROTECTED AREA NETWORK 31 Marine and Coastal Protected Areas (MCPAs) covering 6271. 88 are designated as sanctuaries and 6 areas as National Parks. goats. spotted deer. 33 are inhabited. When freshly cut the wood is bright red. Two of these are Marine National Parks. These fall in 9 coastal states and 4 Union Territories. research institutions. the unchecked population of these species has become a threat to the native (local) species. which fades over time to a rich brown. l Andaman Day Gecko: This emerald green reptile is found only in the Andamans. Ministry of Urban Development (Town and Country planning). etc.A&N are a group of 306 islands situated in the Bay of Bengal. or East Indian Mahogony. The bird does not sit on its eggs. it can pluck a coconut from the tree. Andaman & Nicobar Islands Environmental Team. it lays its eggs on ground and covers them with a mound of leaves and soil. CONSERVATION AND RESEARCH Various Government Departments. There are various Acts & Rules of Government of India for safeguarding the coasts and islands in India. l Nicobar Crab-eating Macaque: It is endemic to the Nicobar islands and prefers to live in mangroves and coastal forests. Visitors that stayed on: Animals brought to the islands by humans or transported through natural factors or other animals are called introduced species. National Institute of Ocean Technology. Ministry of Agriculture (Fisheries management and Aquaculture). l Andaman Water Monitor: Lives in fresh and salt water where it feeds on crabs. Of these islands. l Giant Robber Crab: With powerful jaws and legs. prawns and shelled creatures. To provide warmth. 152 153 . house sparrows. etc. Research Institutions and NGOs: National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management. These include Government of India: Ministry of Environment & Forests (Nodal Agency). Some of these species are domestic dogs. Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (all Government associated) National Fish Workers Forum. cats. is valued for its toughness and use as timber.2 sq km have been designated. rats. The specific ones include Fisheries Act. l Megapode: This bird is closely related to fowl (hens and cocks). l Andaman Padauk. Now. Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification and the Island Protection Zone (IPZ). National Institute of Oceanography. Ministry of Defense (Oil pollution and Poaching). (all NGOs). This effort has produced a 500 per cent increase in the nesting population—making the Tortuguero green turtle colony by far the largest in the Western Hemisphere. the initiative embraces all coastal ecosystems. Cowrie as sacred items in their puja – worship. Costa Rica. l West Bengal has nearly half of the mangrove cover of the country. MFF in India has focused on improving the scientific knowledge base for Integrated Coastal Management and on managing coastal and marine biodiversity. as being one of the world's greatest marine conservation success stories.639 sq km. sectors and agencies taking up the challenges of coastal ecosystem conservation and livelihood sustainability and is helping them to work towards a common goal. Red Coral stone is considered as an astrological gem. NGOs and government officials) participated in the Whale Shark Vhali Utsav 2007 in Veraval. lagoons. Did You Know? l In India.CONSERVING FOR TOMORROW Mangroves for the Future Mangroves for the Future (MFF) is an IUCN and UNDP led partnership-based initiative promoting investments in coastal ecosystems that support sustainable development. Heritiera fomes). including coral reefs. total extent of mangrove cover is 4. To Save Sharks Wildlife Trust of India marched a step forward targeting specific groups to change perceptions. Its management strategy is based on specific national and regional needs for long-term sustainable management of coastal ecosystems.000 people (fishermen. About 5. beaches and seagrass beds. 'Sundarban' in Bengali language means ('Shundor' – beautiful and 'bon' – forest) – a beautiful forest of the Sundari trees (mangrove species. It strengthens the spinal cord and helps digestion. Bandevi' as a guardian deity of the Sundarban mangrove forests. school children. estuaries. Our ancient Rishis observed features of biodiversity to create healthy lifestyles. STC has worked with the Tortuguero community since 1959 to protect green turtles. wetlands. Coconut. in order to conserve the whale shark in India. l An increase of 58 sq km of mangrove cover has been reported at the national level as per India State of Forest Report 2009. MFF provides a collaborative platform for many countries. l The local community of the Sundarbans pray to 'Bano bibi' and 'Bandurga. impart awareness and education. Gujarat. Although MFF has chosen mangroves as its flagship ecosystem. The Sundarbans mangrove forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Landmark in Sea Turtle conservation Smithsonian Natural History Museum recognized Sea Turtle Conserverancy's (STC) long-term Green Turtle recovery program at Tortuguero. l The Shiva deity in Nataraja temple in Chidambaram district (close to the Pichavaram mangrove forests) in Tamil Nadu is called Thillai Natarajar – named after the Thillai mangrove (Excoecaria agallocha) worshipped since the 3rd century. 154 155 . l The Matsyasana (yogic posture) is from the Sanskrit word Matsya (fish). Cultural Practices l Conch Shell. B.B.biodiversityhotspots. Wildlife Institute of India Wildlife in the Himalayan Foothills: Conservation and Management. 2006 Wildlife Protected Area Network in India .conservationmagazine. Joardar (Eds).conservation. Uttarakhand Sanjeeva Pandey. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment & Development (GBPIHED) Photographs l Botanical Survey of India l Abhijeet Das l Aditya Roy l Aminul Islam l Ashish Sakla l Bhaswati Kakati l Bijaylakshmi l Barpuzari l Bijoy Sankar Goswami l C.org http://moef.in http://bsienvis.Acknowledgements Acknowledgements Biodiversity Lead Knowledge Partner Wildlife Institute of India (WII) Resource Institutions and Individuals l Applied Environmental Research Foundation l Andaman & Nicobar Environment Trust l Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment l Botanical Survey of India l Central Arid Zone Research Institute l Central Himalayan Rural Action Group l CPR Foundation Environmental Education Centre l Centre for Science and Environment l Deccan Development Society l GEER Foundation l Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology l International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development l International Union for Conservation of Nature l Kalpavriksh l Madras Crocodile Bank Trust l MS Swaminathan Research Foundation l National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources l North Eastern Hill University l Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History l Society for Andaman & Nicobar Environment l World Wide Fund for Nature l Zoological Survey of India l P R Sinha.org http://www. 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Singh (AFRI) l Kalyan Varma l Mukesh Acharya l Rajpal Singh l Rohit Patel (GUIDE) l Satish Sharma l Shantun Malhotra l V.iucnredlist.ernet. Sevamandir. FRI University.gov.nic. GUIDE.ernet.cepf.net/Documents/final. BirdLife References and Information Sources l http://moef.org Editing.cepf. Director. and Vice Chancellor. Gujarat State l Lokhit Pashu Palak Sansthan. GoI. Photographs l CEE Photo Bank l Maldhari Rural Action Group l Tarun Bharat Sangh l Guru Arjan Dev Institute of Development 001.wii.in/biodiversity/sahyadri l http://www. Addl.in/biodiversity/sahyadri/m CEE. Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation. l The Radiant Raindrops of Rajasthan. Rajasthan State Forest International.birdlife. Convention on Biological Diversity. India. Annamalai University Conservation of Chilika lake. Mohapatra Rudra Mahapatra Satyabrata Mishra Satyanarayan Mishra Shriji Kurup Sushant Kumar Nayak Vinod Gajjar l l l l l l l 162 Rationale for conservation and management.in/report/1011/AR-Eng%20Vol2. National Biodiversity Authority Oceans Omnibus.myindianculture.com.org http://www.icsf. Satyanarayan Mukesh Acharya Prasad Kumar Dash Pratyush P. Design and Development Centre for Environment Education (CEE) References and Information Sources l http://indiacurrentaffairs. CEE Publication Treasured animals.indiaenvironmentportal.in www.pk/ui/11/69/27/1295939617 _ 160816227_3-Granted-aseel-murgs-hens-for-saleLahore. Bhubaneswar l l Photographs l ANET l CEE Photo Bank l United Artists' Association l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l (UAA) Abhijeet Das Dhiresh Shah Kamal Lochan Purohit M. Centre of Advance Study in Marine Biology. 58 (4). MoEF Report on visit to Lakshadweep : a coral reef wetland included under National Wetland Conservation and Management Programme of MoEF.jpg http://www.jpg http://en.html http://images01.pdf http://en.moef.pdf http://www. Mangroves for the Future (MFF).jp· http://upload.org/wiki/File:Cajanus_cajan. Coastal Resource Center. Anna University. Design and Development Centre for Environment Education (CEE) Photographs l CEE Photo Bank l The Walt Disney Company India l S.org/wiki/File:Terminalia_muelleri_le aves_ in_Talakona. N. CEE Publication Mangrove: a livelihood option for coastal community.org/it-initiatives-to-conserve- Resource Institutions l Institute of Ocean References and Information Sources l An evaluation of flora from coastal sand dunes of India: Editing.org._AP_W_IMG_8296. ANET Publication Turtle excluder device in trawl nets: applicability in Indian trawl fishery.JPG http://en.wikipedia.net www.com/2011/12/indian-folkart-tribal-art-paintings. Rai l Kalpesh Dave l Kedar Champhekar l Nitesh Parulekar l NTFP-EP Network (India) l Ravi Panchal l Sarita Thakore l Satheesh Periyapatna l Satish Awate l Sushma Durve l l l l l forests-wildlife/ http://moef. Vol.cmfri.org http://www. 2011 www. Rao l Hemal Solanki l K.Acknowledgements Acknowledgements The Deccan Peninsula Lead Knowledge Partner Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) Resource Institutions and Individuals l ANTHRA l Dharohar l ICRISAT l IUCN Country Office l Lok Panchayat l Wildlife Institute of India l Nilesh Heda l Sahaj Samruddha l Satheesh Periyapatna l l l l l l The Coasts and Islands Lead Knowledge Partner National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) Editing. Bangladesh Research Publication Journal. Coral reefs. Chennai l Chilika Development Authority. 2011 Conservation and management of mangrove habitats.wikimedia.in/2011/09/blog-post.olx. Mangroves & Wetlands in Environment & Forests.madrascrocodilebank. Marine biological resources of India: an over view.kalpavriksh.org. 1991 Report of the Task Force on islands. 3. 54 (2).in/files/file/ GIB%20Species%20Recovery%20Plan.html Management. GoI Seaweed Farming : An alternative livelihood for small scale fishers. MoEF. Indian Journal of Fisheries.jpg http://malkhaindia. Ocean & Coastal Management.in 163 . April 2010.org/wiki/File:Black_naped_hare. Planning Commission. vol.JPG/768pxPoecilotheria_metallica. University of Rhode Island Towards safe coasts. The 12th World Lake Conference Living Sea.wikipedia. Issue 4.org http://www. National Strategy and Action Plan India. CEE Publication Report of the public consultation with fisherfolks and community to strengthen CRZ Notification.nic.anthra.org/wikipedia/commons/thum b/4/4d/ Poecilotheria_metallica.wikipedia.blogspot. Orissa.gov. K. Santosh Gupta. Satya Ranjan Mahakul 165 19 . Mansukh Modasia. Baldev Thakor Exhibit Design Kalpesh Dave. Coach 2: Trans-Himalaya and Himalaya Abdhesh Gangwar. Ramesh Savalia. Mahendra Dadhania Poster/Post Card Design: Pankaj Gorana Printing & Production: Mukesh Panchal Administration & Purchase: Sureshbabu. Praful Padhiyar. Madhavsingh Chauhan. Juliana Pelaez Booklet Design: Mukesh Panchal. Kalpesh Dave Secretariat Atul Pandya. Santosh Sutar Coach 6: Desert and Semi-arid Atul Pandya. Kiran Desai. Samat Solanki Coach 7: Deccan Peninsula Sanskriti Menon. Kanaujia. Manubhai Thakore Take-away Material Concept: Kartikeya Sarabhai Pattern Design: Santiago Acosta. Neeraj Pal. Sharad Gaur. Chandubhai Gajjar. M. Kedar Champhekar. Bijoy Goswami Coach 5: Western Ghats Shailaja Ravindranath. Pratik Gajjar. Ravi Panchal. Dineshbhai Prajapati. Rajendra Waghela. Jayantibhai Patel. Pratik Gajjar. Vipul Parmar. Abdul Kalam Coach 8: Coasts and Islands D. Dipendra Harsora. Amrita Badheka. Ramesh Savalia Coach 1: Introduction to India's Biodiversity Kartikeya Sarabhai. Janki Shah. Hemal Shah. Chandran. Meena Nareshwar Graphic Design D. Chirag Thumbar Printing & Production Shailesh Bhalani. Hardik Raval. Atul Pandya. Satyanarayan Mishra. Purvi Vyas CEE Team Coordination Kartikeya Sarabhai. Ayub Sherasiya. Kit Bag: Santiago Acosta. Rath. Amit Shah.CEE Credits We would like to thank all those from the Ministry of Environment and Forests who provided us vital encouragement and support as well as made valuable and creative suggestions to the exhibition. Ishwar Poojar. Amrut Thakore. Ramesh Savalia. Amit Shah (RPG Team). Manilal Sudra. Ramesh Savalia. Ramesh Sachania. Mukesh Panchal. Rethi Menon. Jogendra Rajora. Rashmi Gangwar. Shriji Kurup Design Coordination Kiran Desai. Mahendra Dadhania. Rajesh Rathod National Microbe Nominations/ Activity: Shyamala Mani. Hardik Raval. Fatesingh Thakore. Kalpesh Dave. Amrut Anna. Sarita Thakore. Sivakumar 164 19 Coach 4: North-East Abdhesh Gangwar. Hitesh Vaza Brochure Design: Mukesh Panchal. S. Ramesh Savalia. Senjooti Sen Coach 3: Gangetic Plain Preeti R. Hitesh Vaza. Kiran Desai. Simanta Kalita. Satish Awate. Mamata Pandya. Juliana Pelaez Co-ordination: Aditya Ray. Pankaj Gorana. Thumbar. Hemal Solanki. Reema Parikh. Meena Nareshwar Editing: Mamata Pandya. Purvi Vyas Souvenir Mug. Shailesh Bhalani. Janki Shah.P. Ashok Waghela. Praful Bilgi Models Kaushik Christian Fabrication and Installation Co-ordination: Kalpesh Dave. please send an email to sciencexpress@gmail. In addition to this. Centre for Ecological Sciences. Of the 16 coaches. 2012 in Hyderabad. in its First Phase. across India to 52 locations from 5 June to 22 December 2012. Ahmedabad along with lead knowledge partners . climate change. The SEBS. will be flagged off from Delhi on the 9th April 2013 from the Safdarjung railway station. The Legacy of Science Express showcasing the most popular exhibits from the previous phases has been exhibited in one coach. These include the Outreach Programme to be conducted at local schools and institutions associated with the National Environment Awareness Programme (NEAC). If you want to plan a visit to the exhibition or have any queries regarding it. National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management. Interesting platform activities for visitors of SEBS have also been planned at respective train stations. Water and Energy 166 19 167 19 . A collaborative initiative of the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) and Department of Science & Technology (DST). Indian Institute of Science. The exhibition timings will be between 10. Complementary activities will be organized to reinforce the message of SEBS. SEBS. A training facility is also provided in a coach primarily for capacity building of teachers in Environment and Science. traveled. G. Nestle and PCRA.000 km. In the First Phase the train traveled 18.00 am and 5. an innovative and unique mobile exhibition mounted on a specially designed 16 coach AC train.Bombay Natural History Society. forest. was also stationed at Secunderabad to coincide with the XI Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP-11) held from October 1 to 19. teachers and the general public. in which students can perform various experiments and activities to understand concepts in biodiversity.Note on Science Express – Biodiversity Special (SEBS) conservation supported by HSBC. Phase II. The exhibition was visited by more than 24 lakh visitors.00 pm at respective railway platforms (schedule attached). coastal. environment and science. Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre (VASCSC) and Centre for Environment Education (CEE). The VASCSC Joy of Science (JOS) Lab supported by Indus Towers is housed in another coach. Government of India. halting for 3-4 days at each of the 52 locations. Wildlife Institute of India and Wildlife Trust of India. microbial. Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education. National Green Corps (NGC) and the Paryavaran Mitra Programme. agro biodiversity and their linkage with livelihoods besides challenges of conservation. The state-of-the-art exhibition aboard the SEBS aims to create awareness about the biodiversity of India. and several others have contributed to give final touches to this unique exhibition on wheels. informative take-away material will also be made available for wider distribution among visitors.com or contact +91 9428405407.Biodiversity Special’ (SEBS). the Swiss Embassy. Three coaches have exhibitions on Climate Change. ‘Science Express . Dignitaries and delegates from about 190 countries and various organizations visited the SEBS during this time. In its Second Phase it will travel across India to 62 stations from 9th April to 28 October 2013. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development. climate change and similar issues among students. National Museum of Natural History. in the First Phase. B. eight coaches supported by MoEF highlight biodiversity found in different bio-geographical zones of India as well as various facets of marine. 27 June 28 June .11 July 12 .30 May 31 May .3 Aug 4 .6 June 7 .18 Sep 19 .12 Oct 14 .18 July 19 .4 May 5 .26 July 27 .7 May 8 .1 May 3 .5 Sep 6 .20 May 21 .7 Aug 8 .14 Sep 15 .1 July 2 . Ajmer) Marwar Abu Road Linch (Nr.15 June 16 .21 June 22 .1 Oct 3 .Biodiversity Special Schedule (9 April 2013 – 28 October 2013) Sr.23 Aug 24 . No. 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 Station Vishakhapatanam Kakinada Tirupati Chennai Central Cuddalore Port Jn. No.28 Sep 29 Sep .11 Aug 12 .25 Oct 26 .25 Sep 26 .9 Oct 10 .16 Oct 17 Oct 18 .30 July 31 July . Tiruchirapally Kudalnagar Trivandrum Alappuzha Coimbatore Kozikhode Kannur Madgaon Miraj Maltekdi Aurangabad Valsad Navsari Vadodara Ujjain Kota Daurai (Nr.9 Sep 11 .27 Oct 28 Oct 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 (Schedule subject to change) .6 Oct 7 .19 Aug 20 .14 Aug 16 . Haridwar Bareilly Azamgarh Mughal Sarai Bhagalpur Katihar Purnea Bagdogra Alipurduar Jn.13 April 14 .Science Express .24 May 25 May 26 May 27 May 28 .22 Oct 23 .2 June 3 .14 July 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 Sr.10 May 11 -13 May 15 .24 June 25 .8 July 9 .16 April 17 .16 May 17 .21 July 23 .24 April 25 .19 Oct 20 .4 July 5 .27 April 28 April .18 June 19 . Lumding New Tinsukia Dimapur New Bongaigaon New Coochbehar New Farakka Raniganj Joichandi Pahar Sini Kharagpur Balasore Cuttack Balangir Raigada Exhibition Dates 9 April 10 . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 168 19 Station Delhi Safdarjung (Flag off) Pragati Maidan Patiala Jalandhar City Verka Pathankot Bajalta Amb Anduara Ambala Cantt.8 June 9 . Gandhinagar) Gandhinagar Capital Exhibition Dates 15 .27 Aug 28 .20 April 21 .21 Sep 22 .12 June 13 .31 Aug 2 . Mehsana) Bhaktinagar (Rajkot) Junagadh Bhavnagar Adraj Moti (Nr.