Overview The Union Environment Minister, Shri Bhupender Yadav presided over the 90th meeting of the SC‑NBWL in Dehradun on 21 March 2026 . The committee examined cross‑sectoral proposals affecting wildlife habitats and approved a strategic partnership to harness advanced technologies for forest fire control and wildlife protection. Key Developments Signing of an MoU between the FSI and BISAG‑N to deploy geospatial, remote‑sensing and AI/ML tools for forest‑fire management, wildlife conservation and decision‑support systems. Deliberation on environmental flows in the River Chambal to protect aquatic fauna during lean seasons. Discussion on conservation of grasslands and rangelands, emphasizing their role in biodiversity, carbon sequestration, dry‑land resilience and pastoral livelihoods. Review of the dependence of nomadic and pastoral communities on Protected Areas , urging balanced policies that respect traditional practices. Recommendation for a comprehensive action plan to conserve the wild water buffalo , a threatened species. Important Facts The committee revisited decisions from the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife, tracking progress on species recovery, habitat management and institutional strengthening. It highlighted that grassland and rangeland ecosystems remain under‑represented in national planning and need ecosystem‑specific restoration, improved mapping, and alignment with Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) targets. UPSC Relevance Understanding the functioning of the <span class="key-term" data-definition="Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife – statutory body under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 that advises the government on wildlife and forest conservation (GS4: E