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.