NGT Investigates Elephant Deaths in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stepped in to investigate the mysterious deaths of 10 elephants in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. These deaths are suspected to be linked to poisoning from contaminated Kodo millet, raising concerns about wildlife and environmental safety.
NGT’s Response
On November 12, 2024, the NGT decided to take suo-motu cognizance of the case, emphasizing the potential threat to elephants, livestock, and humans from the contaminated grain. The tribunal highlighted the need for stronger enforcement of environmental norms, citing possible violations of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
Authorities Notified
The NGT has issued notices to several authorities, including the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Madhya Pradesh), the Chief Wildlife Warden (Madhya Pradesh), the District Magistrate (Umaria), and national institutions like the Indian Veterinary Research Institute and the Wildlife Institute of India. The Ministry of Agriculture has also been alerted to the risks posed by the contaminated millet.
Next Steps
The case has been transferred to the NGT’s Central Zone Bench, with the next hearing scheduled for December 23, 2024. The outcome could have significant implications for wildlife conservation and agricultural practices in the region.
Doubts Revealed
NGT -: NGT stands for National Green Tribunal. It is a special court in India that deals with cases related to the environment and nature. They make sure that the environment is protected and laws are followed.
Elephant Deaths -: Elephant deaths refer to the unfortunate event where elephants have died. In this case, it is being investigated why these elephants died in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve -: Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is a protected area in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is famous for its large population of tigers and other wildlife, including elephants.
Kodo Millet -: Kodo millet is a type of grain that is grown in India. It is used as food for both humans and animals. In this case, it is suspected that the Kodo millet was poisoned, leading to the death of elephants.
Suo-motu cognizance -: Suo-motu cognizance means that the court has taken notice of a matter on its own, without anyone filing a complaint. It shows that the court thinks the issue is very important.
Ministry of Agriculture -: The Ministry of Agriculture is a part of the Indian government. It is responsible for farming, food production, and related activities in India. They have been asked to help solve the problem of poisoned Kodo millet.
Central Zone Bench -: The Central Zone Bench is a specific division of the National Green Tribunal. It handles environmental cases from the central part of India, including Madhya Pradesh.