Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spotlighted India’s ongoing wildlife conservation efforts, pointing to the return of blackbucks in Chhattisgarh and renewed initiatives to protect the endangered Great Indian Bustard.
Speaking during the 133rd edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister said blackbucks, once in decline in parts of the country, are now reappearing due to sustained conservation work.
“Blackbucks have reappeared in Chhattisgarh. Their numbers had once dwindled, but persistent efforts led to increased conservation. Today, they are once again seen roaming the open plains. This marks the return of our lost heritage,” he said.
Turning to the Great Indian Bustard, a species native to India’s desert ecosystems, PM Modi described its earlier decline as severe, with the bird nearing extinction at one point. He said targeted conservation measures are now underway, including scientific interventions and breeding programmes.
“A major campaign is underway for its conservation. Scientific methods are being adopted. Breeding centres have been established, and now new life is beginning to emerge,” he noted.
Emphasising ecological balance, the Prime Minister underlined the interconnectedness between humans and nature. “Nature and humans are not separate. We are each other’s partners. When we understand nature, respect it, and live in harmony with it, change is clearly visible,” he said, adding that such efforts are bringing “new hope” across the country.
In the same address, PM Modi also highlighted India’s performance at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil, where Indian cheesemakers secured a Super Gold, two Gold medals, and a Silver. The competition, held in São Paulo, featured participants from over 30 countries and was judged by a panel of 350 experts.
Calling cheese an integral part of India’s culinary heritage, the Prime Minister pointed to growing global recognition of Indian dairy products. “A big transformation is taking place in Bharat’s dairy sector. Value addition in this sector has given a new identity to our traditional flavours. Today, Indian cheese is making its place across the world,” he said.
The Prime Minister added that the achievement reflects the rising global footprint of Indian artisanal dairy, with “the taste of Bharat reaching plates around the world.”
