REINTRODUCTION OF RED-CROWNED ROOFED TURTLES

UPSC Relevance

• GS-3: Environment (biodiversity conservation, species protection)
• GS-2: Governance (wildlife conservation policies)

Key Points

• Twenty red-crowned roofed turtles were reintroduced into the Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh to bolster conservation efforts.

Detailed Insights

• Native to India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, the turtle is found in the Ganga and Brahmaputra basins.
• It is critically endangered (IUCN), protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and listed in CITES Appendix II.
• Threats include fishing, pollution, and habitat degradation.

Significance

• Supports biodiversity conservation and river ecosystem health.
• Enhances awareness of critically endangered species.

Analysis & Way Forward

• Strengthening anti-poaching measures and habitat restoration is crucial.
• Community engagement will sustain conservation efforts.