Blackbuck Killed in Sirsa | 26 Dec 2024
Why in News?
Recently, a blackbuck poaching incident in Jandwala Bishnoiyan village, Sirsa district, has outraged the Bishnoi community.
- The community, known for its commitment to wildlife conservation, is demanding stronger action to safeguard endangered species and prevent further poaching.
Key Points
- About the Incident:
- On 23rd December 2024, the carcass of a five-year-old male blackbuck was found with cut marks, indicating poaching.
- Veterinary surgeon conducted the post-mortem, identifying a punctured wound as evidence of poaching.
- Other animals, such as a nilgai and calves, might have also been poached in the area.
- Conservation Concerns:
- Local conservationists are alarmed by the declining blackbuck population in the region.
- The Akhil Bhartiya Jeev Raksha Bishnoi Sabha, highlighted the impact of de-notification of sanctuaries in 2017 on wildlife in villages like Jandwala Bishnoiyan, Ganga, and Bhaukhera.
- Blackbucks and chinkara deer populations have significantly decreased since de-notification.
- A case has been registered under Sections 9, 39, 49, 51, and 54 of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
Blackbucks
- About:
- The Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), or the Indian Antelope, is a species of antelope native to India and Nepal.
- It is widespread in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and other areas throughout peninsular India.
- It is considered as the epitome of grassland.
- The blackbuck is a diurnal antelope (active mainly during the day).
- The Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), or the Indian Antelope, is a species of antelope native to India and Nepal.
- Recognition:
- It has been declared as the State Animal of Punjab, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh.
- Cultural Importance:
- It is a symbol of purity for Hinduism as its skin and horns are regarded as sacred objects. For Buddhism, it is a symbol of good luck.
- Protection Status:
- Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule I
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- CITES: Appendix III
- Threat:
- Habitat Fragmentation, Deforestation, Natural Calamities, Illegal Hunting.
- Related Protected Areas:
- Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary - Gujarat
- Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary - Tamil Nadu
- In 2017, the Uttar Pradesh State Government approved the plan of setting up the Blackbuck Conservation Reserve in the trans-Yamuna belt near Prayagraj. It would be the first conservation reserve dedicated to the blackbuck.
- Tal Chhapar Sanctuary- Rajasthan