BNHS and Jharkhand Forest Department Sign MoU for Vulture Conservation | 31 Jan 2026

Why in News? 

The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jharkhand Forest Department. 

Key Points 

• Implementation Period: The MoU is effective from Financial Year 2025–26 and will continue for five years to support scientific breeding, monitoring, training and long-term conservation. 
• Critical Species Targeted: The programme focuses on two critically endangered vulture species — the Oriental White-backed Vulture and the Long-billed Vulture. 
• Status: Both of which play a vital ecological role as scavengers.  
  • IUCN Status: Critically Endangered 
  • WPA Status: Highest legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. 
• Scientific Breeding Support: BNHS will provide technical expertise for captive breeding, health monitoring and best practices, while the Jharkhand Forest Department will lead on-ground implementation.  
• Vulture Conservation Centre: The partnership is expected to enhance operations at the Vulture Conservation and Breeding Centre (VCBC) near Muta, Ranchi. 
• Ecological Importance: Vultures help maintain ecosystem health by disposing of animal carcasses, reducing disease spread and supporting nutrient recycling. 
  • They have suffered severe declines due to threats such as the veterinary drug diclofenac, habitat loss and poisoning.