National Endangered Species Day

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Context:

• Every year, National Endangered Species Day is observed to create awareness about the consequences of human activities and what we can do to save endangered species.

National Endangered Species Day

• National Endangered Species Day is celebrated on May 17
• This global day of action and celebration was created and founded by David Robinson and the Endangered Species Coalition in 2006, and has continued ever since.
• This year's theme, “Celebrate Saving Species,” calls for action to reduce the harmful human activities that threaten species and instead encourages us to be more mindful and contribute to the well-being of nature and endangered species.

Risk of species extinction in India:

• Rapid human population growth and urbanisation over the past five decades have led to massive deforestation and habitat loss, pushing wildlife to the brink of extinction.
• A 2020 analysis by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List highlighted the alarming acceleration of the sixth mass extinction, with over 500 species of land animals facing imminent extinction within the next two decades.
• India is known for its rich biodiversity, owing to its dense population and various factors like rapid land development. habitat loss, poaching, and climate change.

The top 10 species in India that are at risk of extinction, as per the IUCN Red List and WWF:

Common Name	Scientific Name	Status
Asian Elephant	Elephas maximus indicus	Endangered
Ganges River Dolphin	Platanista gangetica gangetica	Critically Endangered
One-horned Rhinoceros	Rhinoceros unicornis	Critically Endangered
Snow Leopard	Panthera uncia	Critically Endangered
Bengal Tiger	Panthera tigris	Endangered
Red Panda	Ailurus fulgens	Endangered
Asiatic Lion	Panthera leo persica	Endangered
Nilgiri Tahr	Nilgiritragus hylocrius	Endangered
Indian Bison	Bos gaurus	Critically Endangered
Lion-tailed Macaque	Macaca silenus	Endangered

Conclusion:

• There is an urgent need to protect endangered species and their habitats. To combat the imminent threat of extinction facing numerous species, it is imperative to raise awareness, support conservation initiatives, and advocate for policies that prioritise the protection of vulnerable wildlife.

Source:

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/national-endangered-species-day-2024-date-history-significance-and-all-that-you-need-to-know-101715855720810.html

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Discuss the impact of rapid human population growth and urbanisation on biodiversity in India, highlighting the role of deforestation and habitat loss in accelerating species extinction. How can India address these challenges to conserve its rich biodiversity?( 250 words)