<h4>Introduction to Great Indian Bustard (GIB) Conservation</h4><p>The <strong>Great Indian Bustard (GIB)</strong>, a critically endangered species, faces severe threats primarily due to habitat loss and power line collisions. Recognizing its precarious status, concerted efforts are being made to ensure its survival.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>The <strong>GIB</strong> is listed under <strong>Schedule I</strong> of the <strong>Wildlife Protection Act, 1972</strong>, signifying the highest level of protection. It is also classified as <strong>Critically Endangered</strong> by the <strong>IUCN Red List</strong>.</p></div><h4>Key Conservation Initiatives for GIB</h4><p>Several strategic steps have been initiated by the Indian government and various organizations to conserve the <strong>Great Indian Bustard</strong>. These efforts focus on both habitat protection and direct threat mitigation.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Species Recovery Programme</strong></p><ul><li>The <strong>GIB</strong> is a focal species under the <strong>Species Recovery Programme</strong>.</li><li>This programme operates under the broader <strong>Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH)</strong> scheme.</li><li>It is spearheaded by the <strong>Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC)</strong>.</li><li>The primary objective is to enhance the population and habitat of critically endangered species like the <strong>GIB</strong>.</li></ul></div><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Firefly Bird Diverters</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Firefly bird diverters</strong> are innovative devices installed on power lines.</li><li>These are reflective flaps designed to make power lines visible to birds from a distance.</li><li>Birds, including the <strong>GIB</strong>, can spot these diverters from approximately <strong>50 meters</strong> away.</li><li>This early detection allows them to alter their flight path, thereby avoiding collisions with high-tension power cables.</li></ul></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> Understanding both programmatic approaches (like <strong>Species Recovery Programme</strong>) and technological solutions (like <strong>Firefly Bird Diverters</strong>) is crucial for answers on biodiversity conservation. Mentioning specific initiatives demonstrates in-depth knowledge for <strong>GS Paper III</strong>.</p></div>