Amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions and increased drone activity following Operation Sindoor, nine Great Indian Bustard chicks were relocated from the sensitive border region of Jaisalmer to Ajmer. The chicks, aged between 5 and 28 days, were transported in specially designed soft-suspension vehicles to protect them from noise and vibrations.
Why the Relocation Was Necessary
The Great Indian Bustard, one of India’s most endangered birds, is highly sensitive to sound and movement. Post-Operation Sindoor, the region around Desert National Park (DNP) witnessed increased activity from Pakistani drones and military surveillance, posing a threat to the birds’ safety and breeding continuity.
According to Brijmohan Gupta, DFO of DNP, the situation necessitated swift action to prevent distress or fatal injury to the young birds. “The chicks were moved from Sudasari and Ramdevra breeding centres to Arwar village in Ajmer district,” he confirmed.
Ensuring a Safe Journey
The relocation was meticulously planned. Two customized soft-suspension vehicles, each equipped with cushioned sand-lined compartments, were deployed to ensure the chicks traveled in comfort. This specialized setup aimed to minimize physical stress and vibration during the journey across Rajasthan.
The Role of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
The chicks are now under the care of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Arwar, Ajmer. The institute, in collaboration with the Rajasthan Forest Department, has been spearheading the Bustard Recovery Program at Sam and Ramdevra breeding centres near the Indo-Pak border. This year, 18 chicks were successfully born under the program.
What’s at Stake: A Critically Endangered Species
Listed as “Critically Endangered” by the IUCN since 2011, the Great Indian Bustard is teetering on the edge of extinction. With only 59 individuals (including chicks) in the breeding centres before the move, every chick’s survival is vital to the species’ continuity. After the recent transfer, 50 bustards now remain at the original sites.
Geopolitical Impact on Conservation
This incident highlights how geopolitical events can directly impact conservation efforts. The close proximity of Sam and Ramdevra centres to the International Border makes them vulnerable during military escalations. Operation Sindoor’s aftermath has brought renewed focus on securing conservation projects in conflict-prone areas.
Learn more about wildlife conservation in conflict zones.
Next Steps for the Bustard Chicks
Whether the chicks will return to Jaisalmer or remain in Ajmer will depend on the evolving security situation. A review will be conducted over the coming weeks to assess the risks and determine long-term arrangements.
For more on India’s endangered species protection programs, visit our article on endangered species recovery efforts.
Conclusion
The relocation of the nine Great Indian Bustard chicks is a vital conservation decision driven by immediate security concerns. It underscores the fragile balance between geopolitics and wildlife protection and highlights the commendable efforts of Indian wildlife authorities to ensure the survival of one of the rarest birds in the world.
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