Bihar Environment Minister Reviews Migratory Bird Conservation, Instructions Issued for Crackdown on Poaching

Patna: A high-level review meeting on migratory bird conservation was held in Patna, chaired by Bihar’s Environment Minister, Dr. Prem Kumar. Senior officials from the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, including the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and other senior forest officers, gathered to discuss strategies for ensuring the safe arrival and conservation of migratory bird species.

The meeting underscored Bihar’s significance as a wintering ground for migratory birds, with wetlands across the state hosting avian visitors from as many as 30 countries. Every year, the state witnesses an influx of over 274 bird species, particularly in the northern region, which is interwoven with major rivers such as the Ganges, Gandak, Burhi Gandak, Kosi, Kamla Balan, Mahananda, and Bagmati. These water bodies provide a critical habitat for birds arriving from the upper Himalayas and beyond.

Migratory Bird Monitoring and Conservation

Since 2022, Bihar has undertaken systematic bird counts to monitor migratory patterns. Among the species making their seasonal home in the state are the Greater Adjutant Stork, Greater Flamingo, Common Sandpiper, Ibis, and Little Ringed Plover. Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary, Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake, remains a key destination for these birds. The late ornithologist Salim Ali, known as the “Birdman of India,” documented around 60 species of migratory birds arriving at Kanwar Lake from Central Asia alone.

Bihar is also home to resident bird species such as the Asian Koel, Black Kite, Rufous Treepie, Shikra, and Spotted Owl, which thrive in urban and rural areas with lower pollution levels. However, with migratory birds beginning their return journey by the end of March, conservation efforts must be sustained to protect these species from environmental threats and human interference.

Government Initiatives for Avian Conservation

The Bihar government has launched several initiatives to bolster bird conservation. The Garuda Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre and a Bird Ringing and Monitoring Station in Bhagalpur have been established to support research and rescue efforts. Plans are also underway to develop bird sanctuaries and promote ecotourism, creating employment opportunities in the process.

During the review meeting, Minister Prem Kumar directed officials to organize a Bird Festival in the Jamui Forest Division in February or March. He also called for greater public awareness measures, including the installation of large hoardings emphasizing the importance of bird conservation.

“Birds are vital to our ecosystem. They play a crucial role in pollination and soil fertility, ensuring the growth of plants and trees,” the minister said. “Without birds, fruiting cannot occur naturally, and harmful pests would proliferate unchecked. Protecting birds means protecting both nature and humanity.”

Crackdown on Poaching and Illegal Hunting

Recognizing the persistent threat posed by poaching, the Bihar government is stepping up enforcement measures to safeguard migratory birds. The minister instructed officials to devise location-specific conservation plans and form special task forces to crack down on illegal hunting.