Gharial Conservation Drive Launched at Katarniaghat by Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav

Category: Wildlife & Conservation
Tags: Gharial, Katarniaghat, Wildlife Sanctuary, Endangered Species
Published: June 23, 2025

At a Glance

On 20 June 2025, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav launched the Gharial Species Conservation Programme at Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh. He released seven young gharials into the Gerua River, a critical move to conserve this critically endangered species.

Significance of Katarniaghat

• Part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Katarniaghat spans about 400 sq km and is rich in riverine and forest biodiversity.
• The sanctuary is a known habitat of Gharials, Gangetic Dolphins, Tigers, Leopards, Swamp Deer, and over 500 species of birds.

Why Gharial Conservation Matters

• Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is critically endangered, per IUCN.
• Their population declined from 5,000+ in the 1940s to below 200 in 1976.
• Major threats:
  • River pollution
  • Sand mining
  • Fishing nets entanglement
  • Dam construction and habitat destruction

Conservation Measures at Katarniaghat

1. Releases & Breeding

• Seven juvenile gharials released in June 2025 by Union Minister.
• Sanctuary has hatcheries that use artificial sandbanks and protected nesting zones.
• Hatchling success rate reached 93% in 2022.

2. Monitoring & Research

• Overseen by DFO Akashdeep Badhawan under the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department.
• Use of nest surveys, tagging, and nest-to-release tracking.

3. Community Engagement

• Environment Minister stressed the importance of local community involvement.
• Urged corporate partnerships (CSR) and mass afforestation drives.
• Stakeholder feedback will shape future conservation planning.

Prelims Booster Facts

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3 (Environment): Conservation efforts, species protection, biodiversity.
• Essay / Ethics: Integration of science, governance, and community for ecological justice.
• Case Study Use: Success model for conservation via local and state collaboration.

Conclusion

The Gharial Conservation Drive in Katarniaghat is not just about protecting a species—it is about preserving an entire freshwater ecosystem. With political will, scientific planning, and community participation, gharial numbers could return to sustainable levels in the wild.

Sources & References:

1. The Hindu – Gharial conservation initiative launched in Katarniaghat
2. IUCN Red List – Gavialis gangeticus status
3. PIB India – Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change Press Releases