Growing leopard attacks in urban pockets of U’khand

About Leopards in India

• Leopards, with their majestic spotted coats and stealthy demeanor, play a crucial role in India's diverse ecosystem.
• These enigmatic big cats are not only a symbol of strength and agility but also serve as keystone species, contributing significantly to maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Habitat

• Leopards in India are highly adaptable and can thrive in various habitats, ranging from dense forests and grasslands to arid regions and mountainous terrains.
• They are known to inhabit both tropical and subtropical landscapes, showcasing their remarkable ability to coexist with diverse environmental conditions.

Keystone Species

• As keystone species, leopards exert a disproportionately large influence on their ecosystems.
• Their presence helps regulate prey populations, preventing overgrazing and promoting biodiversity.
• By controlling herbivore numbers, leopards indirectly support the health and vitality of plant communities, showcasing their vital role in maintaining the ecological balance.

Prey Base

• Leopards display remarkable adaptability in their diet, preying on a wide range of animals.
• Their diet includes but is not limited to deer, wild boars, monkeys, and smaller mammals.
• This versatility in prey selection allows leopards to thrive in diverse habitats and ensures their survival even when specific prey species become scarce.

Geographic Distribution

• Leopards are found across various regions in India, showcasing their ability to adapt to different climates and landscapes.
• Some of the prominent areas where leopards are spotted include the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, the Himalayan foothills, and the central Indian forests.
• Their presence is not limited to protected reserves, as leopards often navigate through human-dominated landscapes, adding to the complexity of wildlife conservation efforts.

Conservation Challenges

• Despite their adaptability, leopards face numerous challenges in India, primarily due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflicts, and poaching.
• As human populations expand, conflicts between leopards and communities escalate, highlighting the need for comprehensive conservation strategies that consider both the needs of people and the conservation of these magnificent predators.

Conservation Initiatives

• India has undertaken various conservation initiatives to protect leopards and their habitats.
• The establishment of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, coupled with community-based conservation programs, aims to mitigate human-leopard conflicts and preserve crucial habitats.

What are the suggestions made by the committee?

Standing committee of the State Board of Wildlife (SBWL)

• The new bill provides provision to create a Standing committee of the State Board of Wildlife (SBWL) to make the functioning of SBWL more purposive and target-oriented.
• Composition:
• 1/3rd of non-official members of the SBWL
• 3 institutional Members
• Director of Wild Life Institute of India
• Standing Committee can take the powers of the State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) and take decisions independently.

Human-Animal Conflict (HAC) Advisory Council

• Committee has recommended setting up HAC Advisory Body to tackle the growing instances of Human-Animal Conflict.
• HAC Advisory Committee will be chaired by Chief Wildlife Warden.
• The Advisory Committee has the power to make site-specific plans and mitigation measures, which may include changing cropping patterns and critical decisions at short notice.