PM Modi Hails Blackbuck Comeback In Chhattisgarh As Conservation Milestone

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted the successful return of blackbucks to Chhattisgarh, calling it a major achievement in wildlife restoration during his address in Mann Ki Baat.

Once locally extinct, the blackbuck, also known as the black deer, has reappeared across the state’s open plains after years of focused conservation efforts.

The revival follows a five-year programme centred on the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, where the species had disappeared in 2017.

The state forest department implemented a structured reintroduction plan, translocating animals from the National Zoological Park and Kanan Pendari Zoological Garden.

Officials said the population is now growing steadily, supported by grassland management and veterinary monitoring, making it self-sustaining.

PM Modi noted that such efforts reflect a broader national push towards restoring biodiversity and protecting endangered species.

The Prime Minister also highlighted conservation progress beyond Chhattisgarh, including efforts to protect the Great Indian Bustard. He pointed to successful chick hatchings in Gujarat through an initiative involving the transfer of fertile eggs from Rajasthan.

PM Modi further emphasised community-led approaches to wildlife protection. In Uttar Pradesh, villagers have formed ‘Hathi Mitra Dals’ to monitor elephant movements.

Using drones and messaging platforms, these groups provide early warnings, helping reduce human-elephant conflict and protect both lives and crops.

The model has contributed to improved coexistence and growing public trust, reflecting a shift toward participatory conservation.

With such initiatives gaining momentum, the return of blackbucks and improved wildlife management efforts underscore India’s commitment to preserving its ecological heritage.

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