"Reviving Asia's Silent Skies: Dr. Vibhu Prakash's Crusade for Vulture Conservation"

From near-extinction to rewilding success: Explore Dr. Vibhu Prakash's dedicated efforts to save vultures and the ecological balance.

In the 1990s, Asia witnessed a drastic decline in vulture populations, a consequence of the deadly impact of diclofenac—a drug used in cattle. Dr. Vibhu Prakash, stationed in Rajasthan's Keoladeo National Park, took a stand against this avian crisis. Supported by his wife, Dr. Nikita, and a dedicated team, he founded the Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre, embarking on a three-pronged approach: research, breeding, and advocacy.

Their research revealed alarming levels of diclofenac in vulture carcasses, leading to a successful 2006 ban and the adoption of the vulture-safe Meloxicam. The breeding process, marked by artificial incubation methods, resulted in the establishment of three additional Vulture Conservation Breeding Centers, housing 780 vultures today.

Having spent the initial 15 years rearing these magnificent birds, the focus now shifts to rewilding. Dr. Vibhu and Nikita pioneered techniques to safely breed vultures, essential as their population had plummeted by 97%. This decline, largely ignored by humans, had severe ecological consequences, from environmental threats posed by uneaten carcasses to an increase in disease-carrying rats and feral dogs.

The ban on diclofenac showcased positive outcomes, but challenges persisted. Exploiting a loophole, multi-dose vials for humans continued to impact vultures. Dr. Vibhu's relentless efforts led to a government order reducing vial sizes, aiming to further minimize diclofenac prevalence in carcasses.

However, the road to conservation is costly. With expenditures ranging from Rs 2.5 crores on food to Rs 4 crores on the breeding process, financial support is crucial. The ultimate goal is to secure sufficient backing to ensure a diclofenac-free radius around breeding centers, fostering a safe environment for releasing vultures back into the wild.

Hope Takes Flight: Dr. Vibhu Prakash's Vision Transforms Vulture Conservation

As the journey continues, Dr. Vibhu Prakash's unwavering commitment offers hope for the revival of Asia's once-silent skies.

Reference:

www.sanctuarynaturefoundation.org

www.thebetterindia.com