National Wildlife Health Policy

National Wildlife Health Policy

A Strategic Step Towards Wildlife Conservation The Indian government has recently proposed a National Wildlife Health Policy to address the growing health challenges faced by wildlife, ensuring a holistic approach to wildlife conservation.

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Key Highlights of the Policy Overview

• Developed through a consultative workshop organized by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
• Inputs for the policy are supported by institutions like the GISE Hub at IIT Bombay and the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.

Aim and Scope

• The policy aligns with the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-31) and the One Health policy, emphasizing the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health.
• Focus areas include:
  • Wildlife pathogen risk management.
  • Disease surveillance protocols in protected areas such as tiger reserves and forests.
  • Preparedness and response for wildlife disease outbreaks.
  • Promoting biosecurity measures.
  • Establishing protocols for mercy killing and euthanasia of wild animals.

Research and Development (R&D)

• Encourages R&D initiatives to study wildlife diseases and formulate effective health management strategies.
• Focuses on skill enhancement for stakeholders involved in wildlife conservation and health management.

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Current Challenges to Wildlife Health in India

1. Infectious Diseases:
   • Outbreaks of diseases like Canine Distemper Virus pose significant threats.
2. Habitat Loss:
   • Urbanization and deforestation disrupt ecosystems, making wildlife vulnerable.
3. Climate Change:
   • Altered ecosystems increase susceptibility to diseases and reduce resilience.
4. Illegal Activities:
   • Poaching and wildlife trafficking exacerbate health risks.
5. Diverse Wildlife and Ecosystems:
   • India, with over 91,000 species of wildlife and 1,000+ protected areas, faces complex challenges in managing biodiversity health.

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Role of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA)

• Established: 1992, under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Objective: To enhance national biodiversity conservation efforts.
• Structure:
  • Chaired by the Environment Minister.
  • Comprises 10 members and a member-secretary.
• Functions:
  • Strengthens conservation efforts in zoological parks and wildlife habitats.
  • Promotes standards for animal care and health management in zoos.

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Significance of the Policy

• Complements existing conservation initiatives, including the National Wildlife Action Plan and One Health approaches.
• Aims to protect India’s biodiversity by mitigating health threats to wildlife and fostering sustainable management practices.
• Enhances India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and its role in the global biodiversity framework.

This policy is a vital step in safeguarding India’s rich biodiversity while addressing emerging health threats to wildlife, ensuring ecological balance and sustainable coexistence.

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