Govt approves inking of MoU with US in wildlife conservation

The government today approved the inking of a pact between US and India to enhance cooperation in wildlife conservation and combating trafficking.
The Union Cabinet's decision will help India get the expertise of US based institutions in wildlife management and conservation and checking illegal trade.
"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between US and India to enhance cooperation in the field of wildlife conservation and combating wildlife trafficking," an official statement said.
The pact seeks cooperation in various areas including wildlife forensics and conservation genetics which is useful in species conservation efforts and better scientific evidence collection in wild life crimes leading to better enforcement.

"As there is scope for both the countries to share professional expertise to address priority wildlife conservation concerns, the MoU would provide a convenient platform for collaboration," the statement added.
Both the countries, under the pact, will also cooperate in the area of natural world heritage conservation which includes facilitating the institutional capacity of the existing UNESCO Category -2 centre at Wildlife Institute of India.
The pact also seeks cooperation in nature interpretation and conservation awareness which involves use of information technology in strengthening interface of forest managers with the people to sensitise people, especially the youth and children in understanding complex issues of conservation of biological diversity.

Both the countries are endowed with rich biodiversity and natural heritage and have established a network of Protected Areas (PAs) in their respective territories.