Great Indian Bustard Rewilding to Begin in Jaisalmer, Bhupender Yadav Visits Breeding Facility

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav visited the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) breeding facility at Ramdevra in Rajasthan on Saturday, a day before the rewilding of the critically endangered species is scheduled to begin at Sam in the Desert National Park, Jaisalmer.

During his visit, Yadav praised the dedication and perseverance of the young researchers and scientists involved in the conservation programme, noting that they had pursued the project with commitment and passion for years.

In a post on X, the minister said he was impressed by the efforts of the team working to conserve the iconic bird and described their contribution as an example of exceptional dedication to wildlife conservation.

The Great Indian Bustard, one of India’s most iconic and critically endangered bird species, has been the focus of a dedicated conservation programme involving government agencies, scientists, forest officials and local communities. The initiative includes captive breeding and efforts to improve the species’ prospects before returning captive-bred birds to their natural habitat.

Yadav also highlighted the involvement of schoolchildren in Jaisalmer, who took part in creative competitions organised under the aegis of the National Museum of Natural History to mark the rewilding initiative. The children expressed their wishes for the programme’s success through artwork, including a rangoli depicting the Great Indian Bustard.

The minister said the children’s participation reflected their hope that the species would thrive once again in its natural landscape, underlining the importance of public awareness and community engagement in conservation.

Earlier on Saturday, Yadav credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the progress made under the GIB Conservation Programme, describing it as a global example over the past decade.

He also commended officials of the Union Environment Ministry, forest department personnel, scientists from the Wildlife Institute of India and local communities for their role in advancing the programme to the rewilding stage.