Bhuj, July 9 (IANS) Gujarat has recorded a significant milestone in its efforts to conserve the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB), with a chick born under the state’s ‘Jump Start’ conservation project at Naliya in Kutch district completing the first 40 days of its life.

The chick, which hatched on May 21 under the second phase of the ‘Jump Start’ project, has survived what wildlife experts consider the most vulnerable period of its early life.

The achievement marks an important step in the conservation of one of the world’s most threatened bird species.

State Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said the development represents a notable achievement in Gujarat’s wildlife conservation efforts.

“This is a matter of immense joy and pride for Gujarat. The success of this special campaign undertaken for the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard is the result of the relentless hard work and dedication of our scientists, wildlife enthusiasts and Forest Department officials. The first 40 days of a chick’s life are extremely delicate, and crossing this important milestone brings new hope for the bird’s bright future,” Modhwadia said.

The minister said the success had been achieved under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and highlighted the importance of protecting endangered species to maintain ecological balance.

“Protecting such endangered species is essential to maintaining the balance between humanity and nature. This achievement will mark a new milestone in India’s journey towards biodiversity conservation. This success further strengthens the Gujarat government’s commitment to wildlife conservation and to preserving our natural heritage for future generations,” he added.

According to the state government, the ‘Jump Start’ project involves protecting Great Indian Bustard eggs in their natural habitat before scientifically rearing the chicks through a foster-mothering programme at a dedicated conservation facility.

Officials described the process as technically complex and requiring continuous scientific intervention during the chick’s early stages of life.

The Forest Department said the chick at Naliya is being monitored around the clock by a team of officials and wildlife experts, who are overseeing its care under scientific guidance.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav also shared the development on social media platform X, posting photographs and a video of the chick to mark the conservation milestone.

The Great Indian Bustard is among the world’s most threatened bird species, with its population declining over the decades because of habitat loss and other threats.

Conservation initiatives such as the ‘Jump Start’ project are aimed at improving the species’ survival and supporting its long-term recovery in its natural range.

–IANS

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