How is Tamil Nadu Restructuring Its Rs 50 Crore Endangered Species Conservation Fund?
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Synopsis
In a bold move to protect biodiversity, the Tamil Nadu government has restructured the management of its Rs 50 crore Endangered Species Conservation Fund, aiming to enhance scientific oversight and effectiveness in conservation efforts across the state. This initiative underscores the urgency needed to safeguard endangered species and their habitats.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu has revamped its conservation fund management.
- The initiative emphasizes scientific oversight.
- Key endangered species are targeted for recovery.
- Funding will also support habitat restoration.
- Collaboration with various stakeholders is crucial.
Chennai, Nov 4 (NationPress) In a significant step towards conservation, the Tamil Nadu government has revamped the management of the Tamil Nadu Endangered Species Conservation Fund (TNESCF), a Rs 50 crore fund dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of endangered species and their habitats throughout the State.
A Government Order issued by Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of the Environment, Climate Change and Forests Department, indicates that the fund's management has been transitioned from the State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) to the Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC) in Vandalur.
This reorganization aims to enhance scientific rigor and institutional focus within the program. Two committees have been established -- a Governing Committee and an Executive Committee -- to supervise the fund's operations.
The Governing Committee, led by the Chief Secretary, will convene every four months to steer the fund's strategic direction. It will consist of senior officials from vital departments such as Finance, Industries, and Environment, along with notable conservationists and philanthropists like Rohini Nilekani, Mallika Srinivasan, J. K. Patterson Edward, S. Balachandran, and K. Jayakumar.
The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden will act as the Member-Convener.
The Executive Committee, chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary (Environment, Climate Change and Forests), will manage daily operations, approve project applications, and oversee their execution.
Members from the AIWC, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, and the Forest Department will also participate. Initially endowed with Rs 5 crore last year, the TNESCF will finance initiatives for species recovery, habitat restoration, and community-driven conservation throughout the State. It will also seek additional funds from both public and private sectors to boost conservation financing in Tamil Nadu.
The initial phase of this program will concentrate on four lesser-known endangered species: the Lion-Tailed Macaque, Madras Hedgehog, Striped Hyena, and Hump-Headed Mahseer.
Each species is confronted with unique ecological challenges, including habitat fragmentation, poaching, invasive species, and pollution.
Recognized globally as a biodiversity hotspot, Tamil Nadu spans the Western and Eastern Ghats, but officials emphasize the need for urgent conservation measures to protect its delicate ecosystems and ensure these unique species do not face extinction.
Point of View
The restructuring of the TNESCF reflects a growing recognition of the importance of systematic and scientific approaches to conservation. By aligning resources, expertise, and institutional focus, Tamil Nadu is taking essential steps toward safeguarding its unique biodiversity, which serves as a model for other states in India. The urgency of the situation calls for a robust and collaborative approach to conservation that can effectively address ecological challenges.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tamil Nadu Endangered Species Conservation Fund?
The Tamil Nadu Endangered Species Conservation Fund (TNESCF) is a Rs 50 crore initiative aimed at protecting and restoring endangered species and their habitats in Tamil Nadu.
Who manages the TNESCF?
The management of the TNESCF has been transitioned from the State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) to the Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC).
What species will be focused on in the initial phase?
The first phase will focus on the Lion-Tailed Macaque, Madras Hedgehog, Striped Hyena, and Hump-Headed Mahseer.
How often will the Governing Committee meet?
The Governing Committee will convene once every four months to guide the fund's strategic direction.
Why is this restructuring important?
This restructuring aims to enhance scientific rigor, institutional focus, and overall effectiveness in conservation efforts to protect Tamil Nadu's unique wildlife.
