Protecting India's Endangered Species: A Call to Action

Top 10 endangered species in India

As we observe National Endangered Species Day, it is vital to acknowledge the pressing need to safeguard endangered species within India. Below are the top 10 endangered species that require immediate attention and protection.

1. Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus indicus)

The Asian elephant is the largest land mammal in Asia and holds cultural significance. However, their numbers have dwindled due to habitat fragmentation, conflicts with humans, and poaching.

2. Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica)

This critically endangered species inhabits the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems. They face severe threats from water extraction, pollution, siltation, and entanglement in fishing nets.

3. One-horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis)

Found in India and the Himalayan foothills, one-horned rhinos are critically endangered due to poaching for their horns and challenges from flooding and human-wildlife conflicts.

4. snow leopard (Panthera uncia)

With approximately 500 individuals in India, snow leopards face threats from habitat encroachment, conflicts with humans, and illegal trade, making them critically endangered.

5. Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris)

India is home to 70% of the global population of Bengal tigers. Despite their adaptability, they remain endangered due to poaching, trophy hunting, and habitat destruction.

6. red panda (Ailurus fulgens)

This endangered species is primarily found in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, and Meghalaya. Red pandas are experiencing a significant decline in numbers due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

7. Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica)

Confined to Gir National Park in Gujarat, the Asiatic lion faces threats from habitat loss, conflicts with humans, and accidental deaths in open wells. They are classified as endangered.

8. Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius)

With a population of only 2,500 to 3,000 individuals, Nilgiri tahrs are confined to specific areas in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. They face threats from poaching and climate change.

9. Indian bison (Bos gaurus)

This critically endangered species, native to South and Southeast Asia, is threatened by poaching and habitat loss, which has led to significant population declines across various regions.

10. Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus)

With only about 4,000 individuals remaining in the wild, these monkeys from the Western Ghats face threats from hunting, road accidents, and habitat destruction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why are endangered species important for ecosystems?
Answer: Endangered species play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They contribute to biodiversity, support food webs, and help ecosystems function effectively.

Q2. What are the main threats faced by endangered species in India?
Answer: Major threats include habitat loss, poaching, human-wildlife conflict, climate change, and pollution, all of which jeopardize the survival of many species.

Q3. How can individuals help in conservation efforts?
Answer: Individuals can contribute by supporting wildlife organizations, spreading awareness, reducing pollution, and advocating for sustainable practices to protect habitats.

Q4. What measures are being taken to protect endangered species in India?
Answer: Conservation programs, wildlife sanctuaries, legal protections, and community engagement initiatives are being implemented to safeguard endangered species and their habitats.

Q5. Are there any successful conservation stories for endangered species in India?
Answer: Yes, there have been successes such as the increase in the population of the Asiatic lion in Gujarat, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts and habitat restoration.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: Which of the following is a critically endangered species found in India?
A) Bengal Tiger
B) Ganges River Dolphin
C) Red Panda
D) Asiatic Lion
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What is the primary threat to the Asian Elephant in India?
A) Climate Change
B) Habitat Fragmentation
C) Poaching
D) Human Conflict
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which national park is known for the Asiatic Lion?
A) Kanha National Park
B) Gir National Park
C) Jim Corbett National Park
D) Kaziranga National Park
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: How many individuals of the Snow Leopard are estimated to be in India?
A) 500
B) 1000
C) 1500
D) 2000
Correct Answer: A

Question 5: Which species is primarily found in the Western Ghats of India?
A) Indian Bison
B) Lion-tailed Macaque
C) One-horned Rhinoceros
D) Nilgiri Tahr
Correct Answer: B