In a recent finding, Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the thumping beacon of wildlife conservation in India, particularly in the preservation of vulture population. In the already wildlife abundant state, the state's dedicated efforts in conservation have led to a significant hike in the number of vultures. This new finding has positioned the state as the leading region as far as vulture conservation is concerned nationwide.
The rise in the number of vultures in Madhya Pradesh has been grown from 8,397 in 2019 to 12,981 in 2025, as per the latest vulture census. The hike testifies to the state’s conservation programs and the dedication of its Forest Department to vulture population monitoring and support.
The Madhya Pradesh vulture census initiative, which was started in 2016, has proven essential to monitoring and comprehending vulture demographics.
The 2025 census will be carried out in two stages, with the first that took place from February 17 to February 19, and the second on April 29. This census ensures a comprehensive evaluation of vulture populations throughout the state, which cover 16 circles, 64 divisions, and nine protected areas, including national parks, tiger reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Seven of the nine vulture species found in India inhabit the environs of Madhya Pradesh. The red-headed vulture, Egyptian vulture, white-rumped vulture, and Indian long-billed vulture are among the resident species. During winter, the state also welcomes migratory species such the cinereous vulture, Eurasian griffon, and Himalayan griffon. Because both resident and migratory vultures are present, censuses conducted during this time period yield more accurate population estimates.
Stable populations are supported by cliffs and a variety of food sources in important habitats such as Panna Tiger Reserve, Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kuno National Park, Satpura Tiger Reserve, and Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary. The Chambal and Narmada river basins are frequently visited by migratory vultures, especially in the winter.
In the past, there were about 40 million vultures in India. However, vulture populations saw catastrophic declination as a result of the extensive use of diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine given to cattle. Mass deaths occurred as vultures that consumed the carcasses of diclofenac-treated animals developed kidney failure.
An important step towards vulture conservation was taken in 2006 when the Indian government recognised this situation and outlawed the use of diclofenac in veterinary medicine.
On the brighter side, vulture populations in India have gradually recovered thanks to the diclofenac ban and committed conservation initiatives. This comeback has largely been attributed to Madhya Pradesh's methodical strategy, which includes frequent surveys, habitat preservation, and public awareness initiatives. In order to ensure the survival and expansion of vulture populations, the state's forest department has been instrumental in putting these measures into action.
While it is a matter of elementary science, it bears repeating that as scavengers, vultures play an essential role in ecosystems. They aid in nutrient recycling and stop the spread of illness by eating carcasses. A rise in feral dog numbers and related health hazards, such as rabies, has resulted from their decline. The importance of vulture conservation is shown by the resurgence of vulture populations, which aids in restoring ecological equilibrium.
(with inputs from various sources)
