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India Discovers 2 New Moth Species, Celebrates Bustard Breeding Success

Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav hailed the discovery of two new species of Lichen moths by Indian lepidopterists, calling it a vital contribution to documenting the country's moth biodiversity. Separately, he announced that Project Great Indian Bustard has entered its fourth year of captive breeding, with the recent hatching of two chicks bringing the total in captivity to 70. Yadav stated that some of this year's captive-bred chicks will be soft released into the wild, marking a new phase for the conservation project. He also emphasized India's proactive global role in promoting environmental responsibility and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Key Points: New Moth Species Found, GIB Project Hits Milestone

  • New Lichen moth species discovered
  • Vital for biodiversity documentation
  • GIB captive breeding reaches 70 birds
  • Chicks to be soft released in wild
  • India advocates sustainable resource use
2 min read

Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav hails discovery of 2 new moth species

Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announces discovery of two new Lichen moth species and progress in captive breeding of Great Indian Bustards.

Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav hails discovery of 2 new moth species
"A milestone in Indian taxonomy! - Bhupender Yadav"

New Delhi, March 14

Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav on Saturday hailed the discovery of two new species of Lichen moths by country's lepidopterists.

In a social media post, headlined 'A milestone in Indian taxonomy!', Yadav said, "In a remarkable development, Zoological Survey of India has announced the discovery of two new species of Lichen moths."

"The discovery of Caulocera Hollowayi and Asura Buxa are vital contribution to the documentation of India's moth biodiversity. Research into evolutionarily significant and lesser-known groups like Lepidoptera is essential for understanding ecosystem functioning and air pollution indicator species of Indian Himalaya," said Yadav.

He said this success underscores the necessity of sustained taxonomic efforts in biodiversity hotspots like the Himalayas.

On Friday, Yadav said that Project Great Indian Bustard (GIB) has entered the fourth year of its captive breeding programme with the hatching of two new chicks at the Conservation Breeding Centre of Rajasthan this week, taking the tally of birds in captivity to 70.

The Minister said that under the environmentally-sensitive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country is well on track to make the project a great success.

Yadav shared this development in a post on social media platform X, describing it as another milestone achieved under Project GIB.

The Minister said the two chicks hatched at the Conservation Breeding Centre in Rajasthan this week, one from natural mating and the other from artificial insemination.

Calling it an important milestone for the species' conservation efforts, Yadav said some of this year's captive-bred chicks will be soft released in the wild, marking a new challenging beginning for the project.

He also congratulated the forest officials of the Rajasthan Forest Department for the achievement.

Earlier, Yadav stressed the importance of the balanced and sustainable use of natural resources.

He noted that ancient Indian traditions have long guided society towards harmony with nature.

He cautioned that uncontrolled exploitation of natural resources could lead to a serious imbalance in the ecological system.

Yadav further stated that India has consistently raised this issue at the global level and continues to play a proactive role in advancing environmental responsibility.

The Minister observed that over the past few years, the Indian Institute of Forest Management has demonstrated outstanding performance, and its students have been securing excellent placement opportunities.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the moth discovery is good, I wish the article focused more on the actual science and less on the minister's social media posts. The real heroes are the lepidopterists working in the field. Still, every bit of positive environmental news is welcome.
R
Rohit P
The Great Indian Bustard news is even more significant! From 70 birds in captivity to planning a soft release – this is how conservation should work. Jai Hind! Our traditions have always taught us to live in harmony with nature. Good to see that reflected in policy.
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves trekking in the Himalayas, this is heartening. These moths are indicators of air quality? That's fascinating. It shows how everything in nature is connected. We must protect these fragile mountain ecosystems at all costs.
V
Vikram M
The minister is right about uncontrolled exploitation. Look at our cities and rivers. We need more such discoveries and conservation projects to remind people of the natural wealth we are losing. Hope the GIB project is a roaring success.
K
Kavya N
Caulocera Hollowayi and Asura Buxa – what beautiful names for our new native species! 🥰 This makes me proud. It's a small but important step. Also great to hear about the Indian Institute of Forest Management placements. More young people should consider this field.

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