Great Indian Bustard, Asian Elephant and Bengal Florican from India will be among 10 endangered species of migratory animals/birds from across the world which will be included in a special UN list for protection under the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species(CMS)—an international treaty to protect such species throughout their range countries.
Their inclusion besides a range of issues affecting migratory species will be discussed at a triennial UN conference on conservation of migratory species of wild animals (COP13) in Gandhinagar from February 15 to 22 which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Hosting CMS COP-13 is a significant step towards wildlife conservation in India. The Prime Minister will inaugurate the CMS COP13 which will be attended by representatives from 130 countries besides eminent conservationists and international NGOs working in the field of wildlife conservation, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said at a press conference.
The theme of CMS COP13 in India is, "Migratory species connect the planet and we welcome them home. " The CMS COP 13 logo is inspired by 'Kolam', a traditional art form from southern India. In the logo of CMS COP-13, Kolam art form is used to depict key migratory species in India like Amur falcon, humpback whale, and marine turtles.
The mascot for CMS COP13, "Gibi - The Great Indian Bustard" which is a critically endangered species that has been accorded the highest protection status under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
The CMS listing makes member countries responsible to work towards protecting these animals/birds, conserving their habitats and controlling other factors that might endanger them. Currently, 173 species from across the globe are listed in CMS Appendix I, which deals with migratory species threatened with extinction.
Besides three species proposed by India, the other seven to be considered include Jaguar (proposed by Costa Rica, Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay), White-tip Shark (Brazil), Little Bustard (EU nations), Urial (Tajikistan, Iran and Uzbekistan), Antipodean Albatross (New Zealand, Australia and Chile), Smooth Hammerhead Shark (Brazil) and Tope Shark (EU nations).
Migratory species that need or would significantly benefit from international cooperation are listed in Appendix II of the Convention. A total of 518 species are listed in Appendix II, but this listing also includes entire species groups including subspecies. Besides, many of those in Appendix I are also listed in Appendix II.
Representative from 110 countries will also discuss adoption of dedicated actions to protect 12 species, including Gangetic River Dolphin, Gabon and Giraffe. India has prepared a concerted action proposal to protect Gangetic River Dolphin.