Why is the Great Indian Bustard endangered?

The Great Indian Bustard is endangered primarily due to collisions with overhead power transmission lines near its habitat.

What lessons can be learned from Project Tiger for GIB conservation?

Project Tiger's success highlights the importance of centralized monitoring, which is currently lacking for Great Indian Bustard conservation.

What measures are being considered to protect the Great Indian Bustard?

Measures include replacing overhead power lines with underground cables and installing bird diverters in priority areas.

Home / Environment / Supreme Court Cites Tiger Success in GIB Protection Plea

Supreme Court Cites Tiger Success in GIB Protection Plea

19 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Centralized monitoring cited as crucial for Project Tiger's success.
Great Indian Bustard faces extinction due to power line collisions.
Supreme Court reserved verdict on GIB protection measures.

Supreme Court Cites Tiger Success in GIB Protection Plea

The Supreme Court has observed that continuous, centralized monitoring was a key factor in the success of Project Tiger. This observation was made while hearing a case concerning the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB), a species facing a severe population decline.

The GIBs, primarily found in Rajasthan and Gujarat, are highly susceptible to collisions with overhead power transmission lines, including those associated with solar plants. Their unique side-facing eyes make it difficult for them to alter flight paths upon encountering live wires, leading to frequent fatalities.

While Project Tiger benefits from a dedicated National Tiger Conservation Authority, no similar centralized body exists for GIB conservation. The court reserved its verdict after hearing arguments on proposed measures, including underground power line laying and captive breeding programs, which have resulted in 68 GIB chicks.