Why Are Reptiles Ignored in Wildlife Surveys, Questions MP CM Mohan Yadav
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav challenges the exclusion of reptiles from wildlife counts, emphasizing their ecological significance and urging for comprehensive conservation strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Mohan Yadav questions reptile exclusion from wildlife surveys.
- Highlights rising snakebite incidents in Madhya Pradesh.
- Calls for a review of the Forest and Wildlife Protection Acts.
- Stresses the ecological role of reptiles.
- Advocates for inclusive wildlife policies.
Bhopal, April 18 (NationPress) In a passionate yet insightful speech on Friday, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav captivated the audience, which included Bhupender Yadav (Union Forest Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change), by posing a surprising yet vital inquiry: “Why are reptiles absent from the wildlife census?”
With his characteristic humor, he remarked, “Are reptiles no longer considered wildlife? Or does the Wildlife Act prohibit their counting?”
Dr. Yadav’s comments struck a chord as he pointed out the significant oversight in ecological conservation — snakes and other reptiles are frequently overlooked, despite their critical role in sustaining ecological balance.
Speaking to wildlife specialists and officials during a 'Forest Conservation' event in Bhopal, the Chief Minister questioned whether these creatures ought to be included in counts conducted in forests, urban areas, or both.
He emphasized how this uncertainty leads to a total neglect of their population trends and ecological significance.
Describing the situation vividly, Dr. Yadav highlighted the concerning increase in snakebite fatalities across various districts in Madhya Pradesh. He used the King Cobra as a poignant example, expressing concern over the declining numbers of this once-ubiquitous species in regions with plentiful rainfall.
“Snakes like the King Cobra serve as nature’s own venom control agents,” Dr. Yadav noted, underscoring their importance in regulating the proliferation of other venomous species. Their absence, he explained, has not only heightened snakebite incidents but also burdened families financially, despite the state's willingness to help.
Dr. Yadav was unreserved in addressing harsh realities, drawing attention to deficiencies in the Forest Act and Wildlife Protection Act, which do not necessitate the counting of reptiles.
While tigers and cheetahs enjoy public and policy attention, reptiles remain in the shadows. He called for comprehensive wildlife policies that recognize these vital members of the ecosystem.
Experts have long maintained that the complex habitats of reptiles — ranging from dense forests to urban environments — complicate their monitoring. Nevertheless, conservationists stress that immediate action is critical. Reptiles are essential to ecological stability, and their decline could trigger a catastrophic impact on biodiversity.
The Chief Minister advocated for a change in perspective, promoting their inclusion in wildlife surveys and greater awareness of their ecological roles. “It’s time to highlight these silent guardians of the wild,” he urged officials to reconsider conservation strategies for a more balanced and harmonious relationship with nature.
