In a landmark decision strengthening environmental jurisprudence, the Supreme Court of India has delivered a significant judgement aimed at protecting the Great Indian Bustard (GIB)—one of India’s most critically endangered bird species.
The ruling highlights the constitutional duty of the state to balance renewable energy expansion with biodiversity conservation, reinforcing sustainable development principles.
Why Is the Great Indian Bustard Important?
The Great Indian Bustard is:
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One of the heaviest flying birds in the world
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A flagship species of India’s grassland ecosystems
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Classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN
Its population is estimated to be less than 150, primarily found in:
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Rajasthan
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Gujarat
Rapid habitat loss and human activities have pushed the species to the brink of extinction.
Background of the Case
The case arose due to a sharp rise in GIB deaths caused by overhead power transmission lines, especially in renewable-energy-rich regions of western India.
Environmental groups petitioned the court, arguing that:
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Power lines pose a fatal collision risk
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Existing mitigation measures were inadequate
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Immediate judicial intervention was required
Key Directions of the Supreme Court
In its judgement, the Supreme Court issued several important directions:
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Undergrounding of Power Lines
New and existing power lines in priority GIB habitats must be placed underground wherever feasible. -
Bird Diverters Mandatory
In areas where undergrounding is not possible, bird diverters must be installed to reduce collision risk. -
Expert Committee Oversight
A technical committee was directed to assess feasibility and monitor implementation. -
Priority to Species Survival
The Court emphasised that economic considerations cannot override the survival of a critically endangered species.
Balancing Renewable Energy and Conservation
India is aggressively expanding renewable energy to meet climate goals. However, the judgement clarified that:
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Climate action and biodiversity protection are not mutually exclusive
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Sustainable development requires integrated planning
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Ecological costs must be factored into infrastructure projects
This marks a shift from growth-centric to eco-centric development planning.
Constitutional and Legal Significance
The ruling draws strength from:
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Article 21 (Right to Life, including a healthy environment)
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Article 48A (State’s duty to protect the environment)
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Article 51A(g) (Citizen’s duty to protect nature)
It reinforces the precautionary principle and public trust doctrine in Indian environmental law.
Concerns and Implementation Challenges
Despite its progressive intent, challenges remain:
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High cost of undergrounding power lines
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Technical feasibility in desert terrain
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Coordination between Centre, States, and private players
Effective implementation will be key to translating judicial intent into conservation success.
Relevance for UPSC & State PCS Aspirants
This topic is highly relevant for:
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GS Paper III (Environment & Ecology)
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GS Paper II (Judiciary & Governance)
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Essay (Development vs Environment)
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Interview questions on sustainability
Key answer points:
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Role of judiciary in environmental protection
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Balancing infrastructure and ecology
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Species-centric conservation approaches
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s judgement on Great Indian Bustard conservation is a landmark step in India’s environmental governance. By prioritising species survival while recognising development needs, the Court has reaffirmed that true progress lies in sustainable and inclusive growth.
If implemented effectively, this ruling could set a global example for harmonising renewable energy expansion with wildlife conservation.