Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised a landmark environmental initiative in Assam during the 124th edition of his monthly radio show, ‘Mann ki Baat’. He commended the first-ever Grassland Bird Census conducted in Kaziranga National Park, which successfully identified 43 bird species, including several endangered ones.
A Remarkable Feat in Conservation
Describing the census as a shining example of how “human effort and technology can do wonders in furthering nature conservation,” PM Modi expressed his admiration for the unique effort. “It is very interesting to know what species of birds live around us,” he remarked.
He encouraged listeners to consider how many birds they typically observe daily, saying, “Perhaps that I see five to six birds every day – some are familiar, some are unfamiliar.”
Kaziranga, globally renowned for its one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, and elephants, is now being recognized for its rich avian life as well. “For the first time, a Grassland Bird Census has been conducted here. You will be happy to know that on account of this Census, more than 40 species of birds have been identified. These include many rare birds,” the Prime Minister shared.
AI and Sound Tech at Work
He explained how technology played a crucial role in the census. Teams used sound recording devices, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) helped analyze bird calls. PM Modi noted, “The birds were identified just by their sounds – that too without disturbing them. Imagine! When technology and sensitivity come together, understanding nature becomes so easy and deep.”
He further encouraged such efforts to foster a deeper connection between future generations and biodiversity. “We promote such efforts so that we can recognise our biodiversity and connect the next generation to it,” he added.
Assam CM Highlights Tech-Driven Success
After the Prime Minister’s address, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also lauded the initiative. He shared on social media platform X, “Searching for small birds amidst the vast swathes of grasslands is akin to finding a needle in a haystack, but human determination coupled with tech has made this possible.”
Sarma also thanked PM Modi, stating, “Gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister for appreciating the survey and letting the nation know about Assam’s efforts in wildlife conservation and its natural beauty.”
Rich Biodiversity Documented
The census was conducted by wildlife researchers between March 18 and May 25 this year across 185 grassland sites in Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the 43 species identified:
-
One critically endangered species: Bengal Florican
-
Two endangered species: Finn’s Weaver (locally called tukura chorai) and Swamp Grass Babbler
-
Six vulnerable species: Including Black-breasted Parrotbill, Marsh Babbler, Swamp Francolin, Jerdon’s Babbler, Slender-billed Babbler, and Bristled Grassbird
-
One near-threatened species
This comprehensive survey stands as a major step toward conserving the lesser-known avian life that thrives in India’s grasslands.
