Hazaribagh Vulture Safe Habitat in Jharkhand
Why in the news
Hazaribagh has become a thriving refuge where endangered vultures breed naturally, and is Jharkhand’s only surviving wild stronghold for them.
Key facts
- Location: north-central Jharkhand, Chota Nagpur Plateau.
- Area: about 100 km around Hazaribagh, taking in the Wildlife Sanctuary, Barkatha block and Mahavar Hill.
- Population: an estimated 400-450 vultures.
- National decline: over 95 per cent in three decades.
Painkillers
| Drug | Status |
|---|---|
| Diclofenac | Vet use prohibited since 2006 |
| Aceclofenac and ketoprofen | Prohibited from 2023 |
| Meloxicam | Recommended safe option |
Background
- Critically Endangered: White-rumped, long-billed, Slender-billed and Red-headed vultures.
- The Action Plan for Vulture Conservation 2020-25 guides efforts.
- Vulture Safe Zone: about 100 km radius, free of toxic NSAIDs.
Exam angle
- Safe alternative to toxic painkillers: meloxicam.
- Region: Chota Nagpur Plateau.
- Breeding centres: Pinjore, Rajabhatkhawa, Rani.