Source: TH
Context:
The Supreme Court of India has strengthened conservation safeguards for the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB) while revising power transmission alignments under the Green Energy Corridor (GEC) in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
The move seeks to balance renewable energy expansion with species protection, especially in priority bustard habitats.
About the Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is one of the heaviest flying birds in the world and the state bird of Rajasthan.
It is a flagship grassland species and a crucial indicator of ecosystem health in India’s arid and semi-arid landscapes.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
- Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I
- CITES: Appendix I
- CMS (Bonn Convention): Listed species
Population
- Estimated global population: ~200 individuals
