The conservation journey of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard, locally known as Godawan, will be highlighted through a special light and visual projection at New Delhi's Qutub Minar on World Environment Day, June 5. The event, scheduled from 8 pm to 10 pm, aims to showcase the progress in Godawan conservation and revival, with the stated goal of increasing public awareness.
Organizers and Collaborators
The programme is jointly organized by Godawan Estuary Premium Water, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and Gramodaya Samajik Sansthan. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of multi-sector partnerships in wildlife conservation.
National Attention on the Species
The initiative comes amid growing national focus on the Great Indian Bustard. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently mentioned the Godawan in his radio programme "Mann Ki Baat", bringing it to the forefront of public discourse. Additionally, Rajasthan observed its first-ever Godawan Divas on May 21 this year, aimed at promoting awareness and habitat conservation.
Statements from Key Figures
Kedar Shreemal, president of Gramodaya Samajik Sansthan, stated that the projection would depict the bird's conservation journey and the encouraging increase in its population. "This achievement belongs to local communities, conservation experts, the forest department, and private sector partners who have worked together over the years. The event is a celebration of collective effort and a reminder of our shared responsibility towards securing the future of this magnificent species," he said.
Breeding Centers and Population Growth
Breeding centers operated by the forest department have played a significant role in conservation efforts, with positive results being reported. Under the initiative, the number of Great Indian Bustards at the Ramdevra Breeding Centre in Jaisalmer district has reached 61, and 25 at Sam, with numbers expected to rise further. It was also noted that breeding capacity has improved, and if AI technology continues to succeed in the same manner, the population could grow faster in the coming years.
Census Data
According to a recent census by the Wildlife Institute of India, the number of Great Indian Bustards in open wildlife field areas of Jaisalmer, counted scientifically across various zones, is approximately 128. Stakeholders indicated that these figures demonstrate progress in the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard.
