Wildlife Conservation Plan (WCP) Overview

A Wildlife Conservation Plan (WCP) or Wildlife Management Plan is essential for biodiversity management and wildlife protection in and around project areas. Its primary objective is to create a stress-free habitat for wildlife while facilitating development activities without compromising natural resources. WCPs employ sustainable and scientific management practices to safeguard wildlife, reduce human encroachment, and promote ecological balance.

Key Wildlife Conservation Projects in India:

a)       Project Tiger

b)       Project Elephant

c)       Sea Turtle Project

d)       Project Vulture

e)       Crocodile Conservation Project

f)        Project Dolphin

g)       SAWEN (South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network)

h)       Captive Breeding Program

Need for Wildlife Conservation Planning

Increasing human-wildlife conflict is a direct result of habitat fragmentation due to unchecked development. These activities disturb the ecological balance and threaten biodiversity. Conservation planning is necessary when projects are situated near:

a)       Sanctuaries

b)       National Parks

c)       Biosphere Reserves

d)       Wildlife Corridors

e)       Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing and proposed)

A WCP is mandatory as part of environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) for projects in or near these sensitive zones.

Process of Wildlife Conservation Plan

The WCP assesses the status of flora, fauna, and the habitat of significant wildlife species within the project and its 10 km buffer area. Key components include:

1. Introduction

a)       Project background, objective, and scope

b)       Description of the ecological context (topography, drainage, wildlife movement)

c)       Relevant Acts and Regulations

2. Project Impact and Conservation Plan

a)       Assessment of project impacts on soil, vegetation, water bodies, and wildlife

b)       Identification of potential threats and study methodologies

3. Mitigation Strategies

a)       Compensatory afforestation

b)       Measures for reducing faunal mortality

c)       Green shelterbelt creation

d)       Muck-dump management and ecological restoration

4. Biodiversity Assessment and Socioeconomic Upliftment

a)       Biodiversity evaluation in the project and buffer areas

b)       Programs to reduce local dependency on forest resources

5. Maps and Appendices

a)       Project location in relation to protected areas

b)       Visual representations of ecological impact

Application Process for WCP Approval

1. Submit documents to the Deputy Conservator of Forest (DCF) including:

a)      Project details (name, location, cost, area, activities)

b)      List of ecologically sensitive areas

c)      Flora and fauna inventory authenticated by DCF

d)      Implementing agency details

2. After DCF authentication and Chief Conservator of Forest (CCF) recommendation, the proposal is forwarded to the Chief Wildlife Warden (CWLW) for final approval.
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Importance of Wildlife Conservation Plan for Environmental Clearance

Environmental Clearance (EC) under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, requires a WCP for projects near protected areas. MoEF&CC mandates project proponents to prepare and implement a site-specific WCP in collaboration with State Forest and Wildlife Departments. This ensures:

a)       Compliance with environmental regulations

b)       Protection of critical wildlife habitats

c)       Sustainable development practices