National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), India

India has established several institutional frameworks to conserve wildlife and safeguard biodiversity. Among these, the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) serves as the apex advisory body, playing a key role in wildlife policies, conservation strategies, and decisions related to notifications of protected areas. The NBWL was established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to provide institutional support for wildlife conservation at the policy-making level.

Legal & Constitutional Basis

• Relevant Law: Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
• Sections: Sections 5A–5C of the Act
• Constitutional Basis:
  • Article 48A: The State shall endeavor to protect and improve the environment and safeguard forests and wildlife.
  • Article 51A(g): Fundamental duty of citizens to protect the environment, including wildlife.

Composition of NBWL

NBWL is a statutory body comprising representatives from the central and state governments, scientists, and NGOs. As per Section 5A of the Wildlife (Protection) Act:

Total Members: 47

Objectives of NBWL

1. Formulate and review the National Wildlife Policy.
2. Provide policy advice regarding protected areas such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
3. Promote research, education, and public awareness on wildlife conservation.
4. Coordinate India’s stance on international wildlife treaties (e.g., CITES, CBD).
5. Issue guidelines to manage human-wildlife conflicts, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade.

Functions & Powers of NBWL

Under Section 5C of the Wildlife (Protection) Act:

1. Prepare and periodically revise the National Wildlife Policy.
2. Approve or reject development projects in protected areas (e.g., roads, mining, dams) – no project can proceed without NBWL approval.
3. Develop long-term conservation plans for wildlife.
4. Promote conservation research and strengthen India’s wildlife databases.
5. Provide guidance to State Wildlife Boards.

National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP)

NBWL has issued three action plans so far:

Major Achievements of NBWL

1. Expansion of protected areas: From less than 5% in the 1970s to 5.32% of India’s total area.
2. Approval and implementation of NWAP 2017–2031.
3. Promotion of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA).
4. Development of guidelines for human-wildlife conflict management.
5. Policy oversight of flagship programs like Project Tiger and Project Elephant.

Criticisms & Challenges

Way Forward

1. Transparent approval process: Mandatory scientific evaluation and public consultation before project approval.
2. Empower State Wildlife Boards: To implement effective conservation policies at the local level.
3. Science- and data-driven decisions: Regular updating of biodiversity data.
4. Legal recognition for wildlife corridors: Protect and maintain connectivity for wildlife.
5. Community participation: Engage local populations in conservation and eco-tourism initiatives.

Conclusion

The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) is the backbone of India’s wildlife conservation framework. It plays a crucial role not only in policy-making but also in balancing development with environmental sustainability. The future success of NBWL depends on adopting scientific, transparent, and participatory decision-making processes, keeping wildlife conservation at the center of sustainable development.