RJ Ranjit Daniels - Session 01

Abstract: R J Daniels Ranjit reflects on his professional experiences in relation to the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, stating that the Act played a pivotal role in unifying conservation efforts across India. However, he says, gaps persist in its implementation, particularly in protecting lesser-known species and addressing human-wildlife conflicts.

He cites success stories that abound, including the revival of charismatic species like the tiger, lion, rhino and elephant, and lesser-known species like Nilgiri tahr and mugger crocodile. At the same time, he highlights that neglected groups such as wetland and migratory birds require more attention. The bias towards charismatic species in conservation efforts has skewed priorities, he says, neglecting less visible but equally important biodiversity.

Integration of various conservation related legislations is deemed necessary by Daniels to address conflicts and involve local communities effectively. Suggestions are given for amending the Wild Life (Protection) Act to address human-animal conflict and invasive species, and making wildlife research more accessible. Valuing biodiversity and traditional knowledge is emphasised, acknowledging the dependence of local people on biodiversity for livelihoods.

Daniels advocates for involving citizens in conservation through citizen science, alongside addressing conservation issues like plastic waste and habitat restoration. (00:00:00) Introduction

(00:00:26) RJ Ranjit Daniels’ engagement with the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972

(00:06:09) Care Earth Trust’s work

(00:11:53) Success in conserving certain species while not being able to conserve some others and gaps regarding environmental legislation

(00:19:41) Gaps in India’s conservation priorities and the bias towards charismatic species

(00:26:41) Man and the Biosphere Programme, access and benefit-sharing, people as part of conservation and a desire for inclusivity in the future of conservation

(00:37:54) Integrating conservation acts to address conflicts and the importance of habitat restoration

(00:41:52) Need for Wildlife Board to have more autonomy for biodiversity conservation

(00:46:04) Wild Life (Protection) Act amendments for human-animal conflict and invasive alien species

(00:50:34) Making wildlife research more accessible and affordable in India

(00:56:37) Managing protected areas for research priorities and conservation

(01:02:13) Updating India’s wildlife protection schedules for more accurate species listings

(01:07:41) Limitations of market-driven conservation valuation methods and valuing biodiversity and traditional knowledge in conservation efforts

(01:17:50) Daniels’ childhood experiences with wildlife and sustainably addressing local people’s livelihoods

(01:22:52) Involving local people in conservation efforts through citizen science: an “ecosystem approach”

(01:32:08) Issues of worry: plastic waste, blindly planting trees and not enough importance given to habitat restoration

(01:37:02) Winding up the session