VULTURE SAFE ZONES (VSZS)

NEWS: The Tamil Nadu Forest Department informed the Madras High Court that it has started the process of creating Vulture Safe Zones (VSZs). The first VSZ will be established in the Moyar River Valley within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve

Why Are Vultures Important?

Vultures are scavengers and play a critical ecological role:

• Feed on dead animals → prevent spread of diseases
• Dispose carcasses quickly → natural sanitation
• Maintain balance in the food chain

Cause of Vulture Decline in India

• Use of toxic veterinary drugs, especially Diclofenac (an NSAID)
• Treated cattle die → vultures feed on carcasses → kidney failure and death
• Although Diclofenac is banned for veterinary use, illegal usage still continues.

Vulture Safe Zones are:

• Identified areas where vultures can live, feed, and breed safely
• Free from toxic veterinary drugs
• Monitored regularly to ensure safe carcass availability

Key Features of VSZs:

• Strict ban on NSAIDs like Diclofenac
• Monitoring of carcass dumping sites
• Protection of nesting and roosting habitats
• Awareness programs for veterinarians and cattle owners

Legal & Policy Angle

• Environmental protection through judicial intervention (PIL)
• Biodiversity conservation under:
  • Article 48A (State’s duty)
  • Article 51A(g) (Citizen’s duty)
• Aligns with: National Action Plan for Vulture Conservation
• Vision Document for Vulture Conservation in Tamil Nadu (2025–2030)