About

• The first National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP) was adopted in 1983, following a decision made at the XV meeting of the Indian Board for Wildlife in 1982. This plan outlined strategies and actions for wildlife conservation, many of which are still applicable today. 
• However, over time, emerging challenges and new issues have prompted a reevaluation of priorities. The increasing commercial use of natural resources, the rising human and livestock populations, and evolving consumption patterns have all contributed to greater demographic pressures. 
• As a result, the NWAP has undergone revisions, with the third iteration for 2017-2031 standing out for its recognition of climate change’s effects on wildlife. This updated plan emphasizes the integration of both mitigation and adaptation strategies into wildlife management.

Components of the National Wildlife Action Plan for 2017-2031

1. Enhancing and advancing integrated management of wildlife and their habitats.
2. Addressing climate change and advocating for sustainable management of aquatic biodiversity in India.
3. Promoting ecotourism, nature education, and participatory management.
4. Reinforcing wildlife research and human resource development in wildlife conservation.
5. Providing necessary policies and resources for wildlife conservation in India, facilitating integration into development planning processes.

Strategy for Action

• The strategy is based on the critical role of ecosystem-governed or tightly controlled natural processes in food production, health, and human survival.
• It underscores the intrinsic value of nature and its components, emphasizing the preservation of ecosystems, known as the ‘Life Support System.‘
• The plan highlights the preservation of genetic variation and sustainable use of species and ecosystems, both influencing scientific progress and supporting rural populations.
• A landscape approach to conservation is adopted for all species, prioritizing the recovery of vulnerable wildlife species and protecting their diverse habitats.
• Despite being one of the world’s 17 mega biodiversity countries, the plan notes a lack of serious consideration of adverse ecological consequences from population, commercialization, and development pressures on wilderness areas.
• The plan emphasizes the deteriorating state of natural heritage, including rivers, forests, grasslands, mountains, wetlands, coastal and marine ecosystems, dry areas, and deserts.
• Public support for wildlife conservation is deemed crucial, with recommendations to strengthen the ‘core-buffer-multi-use surround‘ structure and increase investments in eco-development, education, innovation, training, conservation awareness, and outreach programs.
• The strategy prioritizes wildlife health and catastrophe management, reorients tourism management in wildlife regions, and calls for fair treatment of communities under the Forest Rights Act, acknowledging their reliance on natural biomass supplies.