Making the efforts to protect the stunning Indian biodiversity

Introduction

We might have used the term biodiversity loosely while making conversation, but how many of us would actually know what the term actually means? If one were to put it in very simple terms, biodiversity would refer to the presence of several species in certain areas, and the abundance is only in that area, and perhaps might not be found anywhere else. When someone mentions a biodiversity hotspot, they are referring to an area that has exceptionally high levels of biodiversity.

Why are the Biodiversity Hotspots of India Important?

If you have had the good fortune of traveling across our gorgeous country, you would know that there is so much that this country has to offer. There are regions that are absolutely stunning and mind-blowing, in terms of the flora and fauna of India and when you get to learn more about the animals and birds that live in the region, you would be surprised and delighted. Here is why, the biodiversity of our country is important:

Biodiversity is actually the foundation of an ecosystem and everything associated with it; so, everything from clean water to disease regulation and even pollination of crops is part of the biodiversity.
The forests are often home to some of the rarest and most potent medicinal plants and herbs. Tribals and local people have been using them for centuries and it's high time that the modern world is reintroduced to the same.
Biodiversity means that that area is home to some very unique species of not only animals, but also birds, insects, and even plants and trees. These species might not be available anywhere else, which is why there is a need for preservation.
Hotspots like these are actually an immense reservoir of genetic material, some of which might be centuries old. This genetic diversity is crucial for a variety of programs including breeding and even agriculture.
Biodiversity also helps in climate regulation - when there is a combination of wetlands, forests, and other types of habitats, there is a contribution to the climate. It is also important to note that these areas are naturally resilient and can withstand disturbances such as diseases and extreme weather changes.
In order to understand the complexity of our natural world, studying the biodiversity regions in India is a good place to start. It is not only an indicator of environmental health but can also help to understand ecology and evolution.

Where are the Biodiversity Regions in India?

We are lucky to live in a country that is home to several biodiversity hotspots, including:

The Western Ghats is home to several plants, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
The islands of Andaman and Nicobar where you can find the Nicobar megapode and the Andaman teal.
Eastern Himalayas where you can find some of the most stunning and unique flora like the rhododendron and animals like the red panda.
Western Himalayas is recognized globally for its alpine valleys and meadows, as well as being home to unique species such as the snow leopard.
Indo-Burma region contains very diverse habitats, which include wetlands and even tropical rainforests.

Why Should the Loss of Biodiversity Places in India be a Cause of Concern?

When we talk about the need to protect the biodiversity of the country, it is because there is a threat to them. When we start losing our biodiversity hotspots, it is a loss on multiple levels:

One of the most significant losses has to be related to the loss of habitat - these regions are home to some of the most exquisite animals and plants. With deforestation and urbanization, there is a loss of immense proportions, and one which might not be easy to replace.
When regions that are the lungs of the planet are disturbed, there is obviously going to be an increase in pollution levels, which is not good for anyone. More importantly, it can also lead to disturbance in climate patterns - from irregular rainfall to behavioral changes in species of all types, there is so much that can go wrong.
When the natural balance is disturbed, there is a rise in invasive species, which can attack not only plants and agriculture but also animals. Such species are a threat to the indigenous life forms of the region and can cause massive devastation.
While there are a number of biodiversity hotspots in India, it is important that we respect them and not overexploit them. Unsustainable harvesting can lead to declining numbers and could lead to an imbalance in the ecological system as a whole.
We also need to think along the lines of the pressure that is being put on these regions due to the growing population and how that might not be sustainable in the long run. With these regions not getting a chance to replenish on their own, poaching leads to an imbalance in the food chain and causes long-term problems.

What Needs to be Done to Protect Indian Biodiversity?

There is an urgent need to address the problems facing the biodiversity of our country and stringent laws and rules need to be put into place. There have to be measures taken to conserve the habitats and there need to be strong laws against poaching, destruction of habitats and even cutting of trees. Creating a sense of awareness and educating the people of the country is just as essential - engaging the community is one huge part of doing the same.

Once local communities are made aware of the need for the conservation and preservation of these biodiversity hotspots of India, they also need to be taught about how to detect and identify invasive species, helping in negating their spread. There also needs to be constant research to understand the importance of biodiversity and the need to maintain the ecological balance. Moreover, there is a requirement for regular monitoring and assessment to track the changes in the health of the environment, track the possible threats, and create strategies to keep the hotspots safe.

The Heroes working towards protecting the flora and fauna of India

Development is necessary and inevitable, but it needs to be sustainable and for that, not just the government and the authorities, but the people have to come forth. It is heartening to see several NGOs taking up the charge and trying to bring the change that is much needed.

Center for Wildlife Studies: This Bengaluru-based NGO is focused on the conservation of the Western Ghats and conducts regular scientific wildlife research while keeping the local communities part of their programs. Their efforts are not only at conserving nature but also at educating people on the importance of protecting the environment. They have conducted focused research on several animal species including big cats, wild dogs, and bears. They also help promote agroforestry, growing rubber, and coffee, amongst other crops.
Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment: Yet another Bengaluru-based NGO that works on the conservation of biodiversity places in India, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment or ATREE covers the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayan regions. Their emphasis lies in community-based conservation and sustainable development, wherein they try to create a society that is committed to environmentally conscious ways of living. On average, they tackle several topics including biodiversity, protection of the ecosystem, and climate change.
Kalpavriksh: One of the prominent NGOs working towards biodiversity conservation, Pune-based Kalpavriksh works on policy advocacy, community-based conservation, and environmental education in biodiversity hotspots and other ecologically sensitive areas. What is interesting about this group is that they function not only at local levels but also at national and global levels. They conduct environmental awareness campaigns that are aimed at educating local communities and how to live in harmony with their environment and bring about real positive change.
Bombay Natural History Society: This is probably one of the oldest wildlife research organizations in India, and is engaged in various conservation projects across the country. They conduct research, conservation, and education programs, including those that are solely focused on biodiversity hotspots. Their research includes Indian wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and plants. BNHS is involved in conservation projects across the country, working to protect endangered species and their habitats.
Foundation for Ecological Security: This is yet another NGO that is working towards the protection and conservation of hotspots of biodiversity in India. They understand the need to collaborate with local communities and help them understand and practice sustainable resource management. They have helped with the creation of shared acres of land, which are used as community forests, pastures, and even water bodies, the water of which is shared amongst the communities and with the natural flora and fauna.