SC-NBWL recommends adding pygmy hog to list of critically endangered species
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Context
The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) has recommended adding the Pygmy Hog to the list of critically endangered species under the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) scheme. This move, based on presentations by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), aims to expand conservation efforts for the world's smallest wild pig beyond its current stronghold in Assam to historical habitats like Jaldapara in West Bengal and parts of Uttar Pradesh.
UPSC Perspectives
Environmental
The Pygmy Hog (Porcula salvania) is the world's smallest and rarest wild pig, currently endemic to Assam. It serves as an indicator species (an organism whose presence, absence, or abundance reflects a specific environmental condition) for the health of tall, wet grasslands, particularly the Terai grasslands. These ecosystems are highly threatened by agricultural expansion, overgrazing, and uncontrolled fires. The recommendation to expand its habitat recognizes the risk of having a single, localized population, making it vulnerable to stochastic events (random, unpredictable events like disease outbreaks or extreme weather). Reintroduction programs, such as those suggested for and Uttar Pradesh, are crucial for long-term species survival. UPSC aspirants should note its conservation status: it is listed as Endangered on the (though the article notes the NBWL's recommendation to list it as critically endangered under the specific Indian scheme) and is protected under Schedule I of the . Questions may target its habitat preferences, historical range, and its role as an indicator species.
Governance
The decision highlights the institutional framework for wildlife conservation in India. The (NBWL), a statutory organization constituted under the , is apex advisory body for wildlife conservation. It is chaired by the Prime Minister. However, day-to-day decisions are often handled by its Standing Committee, chaired by the Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The inclusion of the Pygmy Hog under the (IDWH) scheme is significant. The IDWH is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme providing financial and technical assistance to State/UT Governments. The specific component relevant here is the 'Recovery programme for critically endangered species and habitats', which channels dedicated funds for targeted conservation efforts. The involvement of the (WII), an autonomous institution under the MoEFCC, underscores the importance of scientific research in formulating conservation strategies, such as assessing feasibility for reintroduction.
Geographical
The geographical focus of this conservation effort centers on the Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands ecoregion, a narrow lowland ecoregion at the base of the Himalayas. Historically, the Pygmy Hog ranged across a narrow strip of tall wet grassland plains extending from Uttar Pradesh through Nepal, Bihar, northern West Bengal, to Assam. The article notes current successful initiatives in Assam, specifically in areas like (a key site for its conservation). The proposed expansion sites, in West Bengal (known for its Indian Rhinoceros population) and parts of Uttar Pradesh (potentially , given its suitable habitat), are critical to restoring the species' historical range. Understanding the specific geographic requirements—tall, dense riverine grasslands—is essential for Prelims map-based questions or Mains questions on habitat fragmentation and the importance of ecological connectivity.