The Union ministry of environment and forest announced last week that 17 species of animals and birds that are listed as endangered are being considered for recovery from the ‘Endangered species list’ of the Red Book of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The list includes Asiatic Lions whose population is visibly increasing and other species like the Indian bustards and snow leopards that are known to be struggling to survive.
Gujarat plans to Create First Gene Bank for Wildlife in India
A Gene Bank for wild animals akin to humans is being proposed by the Government of Gujarat backed by the environment ministry, with a view to protecting Lions from inbreeding and eventual extinction. This project, a first for India is estimated to cost Rs. 67 crores.