Lesser-Known Endangered Species Protection

Conservation Funding

Lesser-Known Endangered Species Protection: The Tamil Nadu government has sanctioned ₹1 crore for the protection of four lesser-known endangered species. Out of this, ₹48.5 lakh is dedicated to the lion-tailed macaque, a critically endangered primate endemic to the Western Ghats. The allocation aims to enhance habitat protection and support population recovery.

The Madras hedgehog, native to semi-arid regions of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala, has been allocated ₹20.5 lakh for conservation. Measures include habitat preservation and awareness programs to prevent further decline.

Protection Measures for Hyena and Mahseer

The near-threatened striped hyena, found in areas such as Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, has received ₹14 lakh. Conservation efforts focus on reducing human-wildlife conflicts and monitoring populations.

The critically endangered hump-headed mahseer will receive ₹17 lakh to support recovery in the Moyar River. Programs include in situ culture and restocking to revive natural populations.

Static GK fact: The hump-headed mahseer is one of the largest freshwater fish in India, known to grow up to 1.5 meters.

Habitat Connectivity Initiatives

To aid lion-tailed macaque movement, canopy bridges will be installed to improve forest connectivity. These structures reduce habitat fragmentation and allow safe passage across human-dominated landscapes.

For the mahseer, in situ breeding programs aim to restore population levels naturally in rivers. Stocking efforts are complemented by monitoring water quality and habitat protection.

Static GK Tip: The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to more than 5000 species of flowering plants and over 300 endemic vertebrates.

Community and Awareness Programs

Local communities near protected areas will be engaged in conservation awareness. Training and eco-tourism initiatives are planned to reduce dependence on natural habitats.

Biodiversity conservation is crucial to maintain ecological balance, as endangered species play key roles in food webs and forest regeneration.

Impact and Significance

The funding and conservation initiatives mark a significant step toward protecting lesser-known species, often overshadowed by flagship species like tigers and elephants. Ensuring their survival maintains ecosystem integrity and supports India’s commitments to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Static GK fact: India is among the 17 megadiverse countries, housing 7–8% of the world’s recorded species despite covering only 2.4% of global land area.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Lesser-Known Endangered Species Protection: