Two Male Great Indian Bustards Into The Wild At Desert National Park, Jaisalmer

Key Highlights:

• Union Environment Minister released two male Great Indian Bustards (GIBs) into the wild.
• The release occurred at Desert National Park, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
• This marks a significant transition in India’s GIB conservation programme towards rewilding and augmenting the species.
• The Bustard Recovery Programme is a collaborative initiative involving the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Rajasthan Forest Department, and Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
• GIB facilities currently house 97 birds, with 11 earmarked for release into the wild, including the two recently released.

Detailed Insights:

• The milestone is the outcome of nearly a decade of unwavering dedication from scientists, researchers, and ground staff.
• The Bustard Recovery Programme focuses on conservation breeding, habitat management, threat mitigation, habitat restoration, and community engagement.
• Captive reproduction has shown success, resulting in 24 live chicks in 2025 and 29 in 2026.
• Scientific interventions include a novel 'jumpstart' approach, where captive-laid eggs are placed in wild nests and accepted by incubating females.
• Habitat restoration efforts by the Rajasthan Forest Department include establishing around 200 sq. km. of fenced grassland enclosures within Desert National Park.
• The species’ conservation actions are guided by a judgment of the Supreme Court of India and recommendations from an Expert Committee.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Great Indian Bustard (GIB): A critically endangered large bird species native to the Indian subcontinent, primarily found in arid grasslands.
• Desert National Park: A protected area in Rajasthan, India, known for its desert ecosystem and as a crucial habitat for the GIB.
• Bustard Recovery Programme: A multi-agency initiative aimed at conserving and increasing the population of GIBs through various interventions.
• Wildlife Institute of India (WII): An autonomous institution under the MoEFCC, conducting wildlife research, training, and management.
• National CAMPA: A fund established for compensatory afforestation and other forest and wildlife conservation activities in India.