Night watcher: Reverse mythical beliefs to save the nocturnal hunter of Western Ghats

The recent conservation efforts by Kerala and Tamil Nadu to protect the Grey Slender Loris represent a significant step in India's ongoing battle against biodiversity loss, particularly within the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats. This initiative is not merely about saving a single species; it encapsulates broader challenges related to habitat degradation, human-wildlife conflict, and the impact of traditional beliefs on conservation.

**Background Context and What Happened:**

The Grey Slender Loris (Loris lydekkerianus) is a small, nocturnal primate native to the tropical dry forests and scrublands of southern India and Sri Lanka. Known for its large eyes and slow movements, it plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, primarily as an insectivore. Despite its ecological importance, the species faces severe threats. Habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, urbanization, and infrastructure development has fragmented its populations. Additionally, the lorises are often victims of the illegal pet trade and are unfortunately targeted due to various mythical beliefs. Some communities mistakenly believe that owning a loris brings good fortune, or that its body parts possess medicinal or magical properties, leading to poaching and exploitation. The species is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, affording it the highest level of protection, yet enforcement remains a challenge.

Recognizing these threats, both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, states rich in biodiversity and home to significant loris populations, have initiated concerted efforts. Tamil Nadu, in particular, took a landmark step in October 2022 by notifying India's first 'Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary' spanning 11,806 hectares across Karur and Dindigul districts. Kerala's initiatives focus on habitat restoration, strengthening monitoring mechanisms, and community engagement to reverse detrimental mythical beliefs. These efforts involve reforestation, controlling invasive species, and establishing anti-poaching units to safeguard the loris's natural habitat and ensure its survival.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:**

The primary stakeholders in this conservation drive are the Forest Departments of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, responsible for implementing conservation strategies, enforcing wildlife laws, and managing protected areas. Local communities residing near the loris habitats are crucial stakeholders; their cooperation, awareness, and participation are vital for the success of any conservation project. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and wildlife conservation groups often play a pivotal role in research, advocacy, awareness campaigns, and on-ground support. The central government, through the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), provides policy guidance, funding, and technical support. Research institutions and universities also contribute by conducting ecological studies and providing scientific inputs.

**Why This Matters for India:**

This conservation effort holds immense significance for India. Firstly, it underscores India's commitment to biodiversity conservation, especially for endemic species found in global biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats. Protecting the Grey Slender Loris contributes to maintaining the ecological balance, as the species helps control insect populations and aids in seed dispersal. Secondly, it highlights the challenge of combating superstitious beliefs that directly threaten wildlife, emphasizing the need for scientific literacy and community outreach. Successful conservation here can serve as a model for addressing similar issues affecting other species. Thirdly, it strengthens inter-state cooperation in environmental governance, a critical aspect given that wildlife habitats often transcend administrative boundaries.

**Historical Context and Constitutional Provisions:**

India has a long history of wildlife conservation, formalized after independence with the enactment of the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA) in 1972, which created a framework for protected areas and species protection. The Grey Slender Loris's Schedule I status under the WPA reflects its endangered state. Constitutionally, the protection of wildlife and forests is a shared responsibility. Article 48A of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) mandates that "The State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country." Furthermore, Article 51A(g), a Fundamental Duty, states that it shall be the duty of every citizen of India "to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures." These articles provide the constitutional bedrock for such conservation initiatives. The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, further strengthens India's legal framework for conserving biological diversity, sustainable use of its components, and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of biological resources.

**Future Implications:**

The success of these initiatives could have far-reaching implications. It could lead to increased scientific research into the species' ecology, behavior, and genetics, providing valuable data for more targeted conservation strategies. Enhanced community involvement, particularly through awareness campaigns that debunk myths and promote the loris's ecological value, could foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among local populations. This could also pave the way for eco-tourism opportunities, providing alternative livelihoods and incentivizing conservation. However, challenges remain, including sustained funding, effective enforcement against poaching and illegal trade, and the long-term commitment required to change deeply ingrained cultural beliefs. The cooperative model between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, if successful, could serve as a blueprint for conserving other trans-boundary species in India, promoting a more integrated approach to environmental protection.