changeadminThe Indian state of Uttar Pradesh recently opened a conservation and breeding center for Indian vultures. The center aims to improve the population of the vulture species, which are struggling for survival due to various causes.
The new facility is named Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre and is located on the Eastern side of Uttar Pradesh in the Gorakhpur district. The center was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of State, Yogi Adityanath, on 6 September, on the occasion of the Indian festival Hariyali Teej and one day before Vulture Awareness Day.
Jatayu has a historical significance in the Indian culture. In the scripture, Ramayan, vulture Jatayu is sacredly mentioned for his sacrificial role in saving Goddess Sita (wife of Lord Ram) from Ravana, the demon king of Lanka.
There are more than 20 different species of Vultures found around the world of which 9 have their home in India, including the Oriental White-backed Vulture, Long-billed Vulture, Slender-billed Vulture, Himalayan Vulture, Eurasian Griffon Vulture, Red-headed Vulture, Egyptian Vulture, Bearded Vulture, and Cinereous Vulture.
Many of these species have become endangered due to a loss of their habitats and the excessive use of diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, in domestic animals, which becomes poisonous for vultures.
The facility is built for Rs. 2.8 cr and spread over 5 acres of land featuring a breeding aviary section, veterinary section, administrative building, recovery aviary, etc.
Vultures are nature’s clean-up crew and recyclers as they prevent the spread of disease and maintain balance in the ecosystem.
If you want to know what makes Vultures special to our biodiversity, watch the video on our Change Started YouTube Channel.
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