Q. Climate change and anthropogenic pressures are altering the migratory behaviour of birds across the world. Discuss the ecological and socio-economic implications of declining migratory bird populations in India. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
Direction: Intro------ Causes + ecological implications + socio-economic implications + Government initiatives--------Conclusion.
Introduction:
Describe migratory birds & major flyways.
Migratory birds are key indicators of ecosystem health because they connect ecosystems across continents through major flyways such as the Central Asian Flyway (CAF). India hosts nearly 370 migratory bird species.
Main Body
Causes of Declining Migratory Bird Populations
- Climate change
- Pollution
- Habitat loss
- invasive species
- Anthropogenic causes include mass hunting, excessive use of pesticides and fertilisers, coastal erosion, tourism, infrastructure development, and other human pressures.
Ecological implications
- Decline in biodiversity
- Disruption of food chains
- Reduced pest control
- Decline in pollination and seed dispersal
- Wetland ecosystem degradation
- Nutrient cycling
- Increased disease risk
Socio-economic implications
- Impact on ecotourism
- Agricultural losses
- Livelihood impacts
- Public health concerns
- Cultural and heritage loss
- Scientific and educational loss
- Increased conservation costs
- Threat to ecosystem services.
Government initiatives
- Central Asian Flyway Action Plan (2024–2030)
- National Action Plan for Conservation of Migratory Birds and their Habitats
- Ramsar Convention & expansion of Ramsar wetlands
- Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017
- Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH)
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
Conclusion:
Give a neutral and suggest some measures.
