On March 21, 2024, the Supreme Court of India revised its previous directive concerning the protection of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) and Lesser Florican. The Court relaxed the 2021 injunction that prohibited the installation of overhead transmission lines within their habitats. This decision emphasizes the complex challenge of balancing wildlife conservation with sustainable development, particularly in light of India’s international obligations towards renewable energy.
The Union of India highlighted that the 2021 directive mandating the undergrounding of both high and low voltage power lines was practically unfeasible. Furthermore, it was suggested that such measures would not significantly aid in the conservation of the GIB. Recognizing this reality, the Supreme Court decided to recalibrate its stance to accommodate the dual necessities of species conservation and sustainable development, especially regarding the expansion of renewable energy sources.
The Wildlife Institute of India has identified crucial regions for the conservation of the GIB, encompassing over 88,000 square kilometers across Rajasthan and Gujarat. This includes a designated “priority area” of 13,663 square kilometers, “potential areas” totaling 18,680 square kilometers, and “additional important areas” covering 6,654 square kilometers.
The Supreme Court mandated the formation of an expert committee tasked with examining the feasibility and implications of both overhead and underground electric lines within the designated priority and potential areas. This committee is responsible for identifying long-term conservation strategies for the GIB while evaluating sustainable development options for future power lines that align with both conservation needs and India’s renewable energy objectives.
The expert committee is required to finalize its work and submit a comprehensive report to the Supreme Court through the Union Government by July 31, 2024. This directive illustrates the Supreme Court's nuanced approach to addressing the intricate relationship between environmental conservation and the needs of modern infrastructure development, particularly in the context of India’s commitments to renewable energy.
Q1. What was the Supreme Court's directive on March 21, 2024?
Answer: The Supreme Court revised its 2021 directive by allowing overhead transmission lines in the habitats of the Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican, balancing conservation with renewable energy needs.
Q2. Why did the Supreme Court change its previous order?
Answer: The Union of India argued that the earlier order to underground power lines was unfeasible and ineffective for GIB conservation, prompting the Court to reassess its stance.
Q3. What areas are included for GIB conservation?
Answer: Conservation areas identified exceed 88,000 square kilometers in Rajasthan and Gujarat, with specific priority, potential, and additional important zones designated for protection.
Q4. What is the role of the expert committee formed by the Supreme Court?
Answer: The expert committee will explore the feasibility of electric lines in conservation areas, propose sustainable alternatives, and recommend measures to ensure the GIB's survival.
Q5. When is the expert committee expected to report its findings?
Answer: The committee must submit its comprehensive report to the Supreme Court by July 31, 2024, outlining its findings and recommendations for GIB conservation.
Question 1: What is the main focus of the Supreme Court's directive issued on March 21, 2024?
A) Complete ban on transmission lines
B) Relaxation of previous injunctions
C) Increase in conservation areas
D) Reduction of renewable energy sources
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which species are specifically mentioned in the Supreme Court's directive?
A) Indian Peafowl and Lesser Florican
B) Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican
C) Bengal Tiger and Indian Elephant
D) Snow Leopard and Red Panda
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is one of the committee's responsibilities as per the Supreme Court's directive?
A) Building new power plants
B) Ensuring the survival of the GIB
C) Abolishing wildlife protection laws
D) Increasing transmission line voltage
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: By when is the expert committee expected to submit its report?
A) April 30, 2024
B) July 31, 2024
C) December 31, 2024
D) March 31, 2025
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: Which states are identified for GIB conservation efforts?
A) Punjab and Haryana
B) Rajasthan and Gujarat
C) Maharashtra and Goa
D) Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
Correct Answer: B
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