What is the name of the community volunteer programme launched by the Indian government to protect snow leopards?

The correct answer is Himal Sanrakshak.

Key Points

• The Indian government launched the Himal Sanrakshak programme to protect snow leopards and their habitat.
• This initiative involves local communities as key stakeholders in conservation efforts.
• The programme aims to raise awareness and foster a sense of responsibility among locals towards biodiversity conservation.
• It promotes the sustainable use of natural resources while ensuring the protection of snow leopards.
• The involvement of community volunteers is crucial for monitoring and reporting on the status of snow leopards and their environment.

Additional Information

• Snow Leopards:
  • Snow leopards are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and poaching.
  • They are found in the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia.
  • Conservation of snow leopards is critical for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem they inhabit.
• Community-Based Conservation:
  • This approach involves local communities in conservation efforts, making them active participants rather than mere beneficiaries.
  • It ensures that conservation activities are sustainable and culturally appropriate.
  • Community-based conservation can lead to enhanced protection of natural resources and biodiversity.
• Biodiversity Hotspots:
  • The Himalayas are one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, with numerous endemic species.
  • Conservation efforts in these areas are crucial for the protection of global biodiversity.
  • Biodiversity hotspots are regions with significant levels of biodiversity that are under threat from human activities.
• Sustainable Resource Use:
  • Sustainable use of natural resources ensures that they are available for future generations.
  • It involves practices that do not harm the environment and promote long-term ecological balance.
  • Sustainable resource use is a key component of conservation programmes like Himal Sanrakshak.