In Pics: Indira Gandhi’s Lesser-Known Legacy, Championing Wildlife Conservation

One of Gandhi’s landmark contributions was the enactment of the Wildlife Protection Act in 1972. This legislation outlawed hunting and trade of native species and categorized animals into six schedules based on rarity, prescribing varying degrees of protection. It also paved the way for key conservation institutions such as the National Tiger Conservation Authority, National Board of Wildlife, and Central Zoo Authority.  

When the Act was passed, India had only five designated national parks. Today, the country boasts over 100 national parks, which have become sanctuaries for endangered species like the Gir Lion, Asiatic Elephant, and Indian Rhino. While the Act has undergone seven amendments and continues to evolve, it remains a cornerstone of India's environmental policies.  

Indira Gandhi’s dedication to conservation became particularly evident with the launch of Project Tiger on April 1, 1973, at Jim Corbett National Park. At the time, the Bengal tiger population had plummeted from an estimated 50,000 at the beginning of the 20th century to just around 1,200 by 1972.  

The project aimed to ensure the tiger's survival by protecting its habitats and reviving degraded ecosystems. These efforts yielded unprecedented success, with the tiger population witnessing a remarkable recovery over the decades. The program not only secured the future of the Bengal tiger but also set the foundation for India’s approach to conservation.  

In 1975, Gandhi’s government launched the Indian Crocodile Conservation Project, focusing on habitat improvement, captive breeding, and community involvement. The project has been a resounding success, with saltwater crocodile numbers increasing from under 100 in 1976 to over 1,600 in 2012. Similarly, the marsh crocodile population nearly tripled after 1989. The critically endangered Indian Gharial has also shown signs of recovery, with its population doubling between 2012 and 2019.  

Gandhi’s wildlife conservation efforts also included ending the tradition of recreational hunting by erstwhile Indian monarchs and British colonials. She fiercely opposed the practice, recognizing its devastating impact on India’s biodiversity.  

Indira Gandhi’s commitment to preserving India’s natural heritage helped lay the groundwork for the country’s conservation efforts. Her policies, including the Water Pollution Act (1974), Forest Conservation Act (1980), and Air Protection Act (1981), showcased her understanding of the interconnectedness of ecosystems.