PM Modi Emphasizes the Importance of Wildlife Conservation and Celebrates India's Biodiversity
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of wildlife conservation in India, underlining the country's rich biodiversity and the cultural importance of its wildlife. He praised tribal communities for their role in preservation and encouraged support for wildlife advocates as World Wildlife Day approaches.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi calls for wildlife conservation.
- India's unique species are vital to its ecosystem.
- Tribal communities play a key role in conservation.
- Rising populations of various species showcase success.
- Support for wildlife conservation initiatives is essential.
New Delhi, Feb 23 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called upon the nation to protect and cherish India's rich wildlife, emphasizing the country's exceptional and lively ecosystem.
During the 119th episode of his monthly radio show, 'Mann Ki Baat,' he highlighted the profound relationship between India's wildlife and its cultural legacy.
"Are you aware of the commonality among the Asiatic Lion, Hangul, Pygmy Hog, and Lion-tailed Macaque? The answer is that these species are exclusive to India and nowhere else on the globe. We possess a flourishing ecosystem of plants and animals, and these creatures are intricately woven into our history and culture," said PM Modi.
He emphasized that animals occupy a sacred status in Indian customs, often honored as the mounts of Gods and Goddesses.
"Many tribes in central India revere Bagheshwar. In Maharashtra, there exists a tradition of venerating Waghoba. Lord Ayyappa shares a deep connection with the tiger, and Bonbibi, whose 'vaahan' is the tiger, receives worship in Sundarbans. Numerous folk dances such as Huli Vesha in Karnataka, Pooli in Tamil Nadu, and Pulikali in Kerala also celebrate our relationship with wildlife," he remarked.
PM Modi commended India's tribal communities for their pivotal role in wildlife preservation, citing the Soliga tribe in Karnataka's BRT Tiger Reserve as a noteworthy example.
"The tiger population has been steadily increasing in this reserve, and much of the credit belongs to the Soliga tribe, who hold the tiger in reverence. Because of them, man-animal conflict is nearly non-existent in this region. Likewise, the residents of Gujarat have contributed significantly to the conservation of Asiatic Lions in Gir, exemplifying a harmonious existence with nature," he stated.
Recognizing India's achievements in conservation, he noted the growth in populations of tigers, leopards, Asiatic lions, rhinos, and barasingha in recent years.
"India's wildlife diversity is genuinely extraordinary. While Asiatic lions roam in the western regions, tigers inhabit the East, Central, and South, and rhinos flourish in the Northeast. Every part of India not only cares for nature but is also dedicated to wildlife protection," he remarked.
PM Modi also shared the inspiring tale of Anuradha Rao, known as the 'Deer Woman' in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
"For thirty years, she has devoted her life to safeguarding deer and peacocks. Her dedication serves as an example for all of us," he added.
As World Wildlife Day approaches next month, the Prime Minister encouraged citizens to recognize and support those engaged in wildlife conservation.
"It is encouraging to witness numerous start-ups emerging in this domain. Let us all support and appreciate individuals committed to protecting nature," he concluded.
