Vultures
Why it Matters?
India’s vulture population, vital for carcass disposal and zoonotic disease prevention, has declined by over 95% due to diclofenac use. Strengthening conservation under a One Health framework and Central Asian Flyway cooperation can aid biodiversity, pandemic preparedness, and public health security.
What You Should Know?
Vultures are scavengers that prevent the spread of pathogens such as anthrax, botulinum, and rabies.
India had 40 million vultures in the 1980s.
Since the 1990s, populations have declined by over 95%.
The main cause is the veterinary drug diclofenac, which is toxic to vultures.
Other threats include power line electrocution, poisoning, and habitat loss.
India is home to 9 vulture species
Critically Endangered: White-rumped, Long-billed, Slender-billed, Red-headed, Rüppell’s.
Conservation Framework
The National Action Plan for Vulture Conservation (2016–2025) guides India’s strategy.
Vultures in India are part of the Central Asian Flyway (CAF), covering 30+ countries.
Vulture Safe Zones: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh have designated zones with diclofenac-free livestock.
Vulture Breeding Programs: Centres in Pinjore (Haryana), Pune, and Rani (Madhya Pradesh) for captive breeding and reintroduction.