The Prime Minister noted that India is home to over 70 percent of the world’s tiger population, underlining the country’s leadership in big cat conservation. India also hosts the largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros and the highest number of Asiatic elephants.
He further pointed out that India remains the only country where the majestic Asiatic lion thrives in the wild. These achievements, he said, reflect sustained conservation policies and community participation.
Government Initiatives for Wildlife Protection
Highlighting government efforts, the Prime Minister spoke about the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance, designed as a platform for sharing best practices and strengthening global cooperation in big cat conservation.
He also mentioned targeted initiatives to protect species such as the Great Indian Bustard, Gharial and Sloth Bear. The translocation of cheetahs, he noted, represents another milestone in restoring ecological balance and reviving species populations.
Cultural Ethos and Ecological Wisdom
Emphasizing India’s cultural heritage, the Prime Minister said that ancient scriptures advocate the welfare of all living beings and inspire sensitivity toward wildlife. To illustrate this philosophy, he shared a Sanskrit Subhashitam that underscores the interdependence of forests and wildlife.
“निर्वनो वध्यते व्याघ्रो निर्व्याघ्रं छिद्यते वनम्।
तस्माद् व्याघ्रो वनं रक्षेद् वनं व्याघ्रं च पालयेत्॥”
The verse conveys that without forests, tigers perish, and without tigers, forests are destroyed. It highlights the delicate ecological balance in which each element sustains the other.
Sustainability and Shared Responsibility
The Prime Minister reiterated that wildlife conservation goes beyond protecting individual species. It requires safeguarding habitats, promoting sustainable practices and fostering public awareness.
He called for collective commitment to ensure that wildlife continues to thrive for future generations. By linking conservation to sustainable development, he stressed that environmental protection and economic progress must move hand in hand.
World Wildlife Day, he said, serves as a reminder that humanity’s well-being is deeply connected to the health of ecosystems.
Looking Ahead
India’s conservation achievements have gained global recognition, particularly in tiger and lion protection. However, the Prime Minister emphasized that continuous vigilance and innovation are essential.
He concluded by urging citizens to draw inspiration from India’s cultural wisdom and actively contribute to conservation efforts. Protecting wildlife, he said, is both a moral duty and a strategic necessity for sustainable growth.