National Red List Roadmap and Vision 2025–2030: A Milestone in Species Protection
Context:
At the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi, the Union Minister of State for Environment launched India’s National Red List Roadmap and the accompanying Vision 2025–2030 document. This launch marks a significant step in strengthening India’s biodiversity conservation framework and aligning national efforts with global standards.
India’s National Red List Roadmap
Overview:
- The National Red List Roadmap is a national initiative aimed at creating an integrated Red List assessment system for India.
- It focuses on identifying, classifying, and conserving threatened species in accordance with IUCN global standards.
Organisations Involved:
- Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
- Botanical Survey of India (BSI)
- In collaboration with IUCN-India and the Centre for Species Survival (CSS), India
Key Objectives:
- Establish a nationally coordinated, inclusive, and science-based red-listing system.
- Enable accurate species assessment, evidence-based conservation planning, and informed policymaking.
- Fulfil India’s obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).
Key Features:
- Comprehensive multi-taxa coverage: First-of-its-kind national effort assessing flora and fauna, including terrestrial and marine biodiversity.
- Publication of National Red Data Books for flora and fauna by 2030.
- Integration of traditional knowledge for community-driven biodiversity documentation.
- Science-based threat assessment using IUCN’s globally accepted methodologies.
- Collaborative structure involving taxonomists, conservation scientists, and policymakers to maintain unified national data.
Vision 2025–2030
Overview:
- Vision 2025–2030 is a strategic framework outlining India’s roadmap for biodiversity assessment and conservation for the next five years.
- It aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and KMGBF targets.
Objectives:
- Create a centralised biodiversity database to enable data-driven conservation decisions.
- Strengthen species identification and taxonomy through collaboration among experts.
Key Features:
- National coordination network: Links scientific, academic, and local institutions.
- Baseline data generation: Provides information on threatened species to guide future Wildlife Action Plans.
- Digital tools and GIS mapping: Supports efficient species monitoring.
- Equity and inclusivity: Ensures representation of local and indigenous communities in biodiversity management.
- 2030 targets: Publication of comprehensive Red Data Books and regular updates of threat categories.
Conclusion:
- The National Red List Roadmap and Vision 2025–2030 represent a landmark initiative for India’s biodiversity.
- By combining scientific assessment, traditional knowledge, and policy coordination, India is set to strengthen species conservation, enhance global compliance, and protect its rich biodiversity for future generations.
Source : DD News