Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav led discussions on various proposals at the 90th meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife. The committee, established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, advises the government on wildlife and forest conservation matters.
During the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Forest Survey of India and Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics to enhance the use of geospatial technologies in forest fire management and wildlife conservation.
The Committee reviewed progress on decisions made in the previous meeting and discussed initiatives related to species recovery, habitat management, and institutional strengthening. Minister Yadav focused on environmental flows in the Chambal River to support riverine species during lean seasons.
Discussions also centered on the conservation of grasslands and rangelands, emphasizing their significance for biodiversity and carbon sequestration. The Committee highlighted the need for specific restoration approaches and better integration with national commitments.
The meeting addressed the reliance of nomadic and pastoral communities on Protected Areas, emphasizing the balance needed between conservation goals and traditional practices. The conservation status of wild water buffalo was deliberated, leading to a recommendation for a comprehensive conservation action plan.
