State PCS - Madhya Pradesh (MP PCS)

• 24 Jun 2025

Blackbuck Poaching in Madhya Pradesh

Why in News?

A blackbuck was found dead after a group of hunters opened fire on a herd of the animals in Shajapur district, Madhya Pradesh.

• The Forest Department has registered a case under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Note: According to a 2022 report by the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), 139 endangered blackbucks were killed across 13 states between 2008 and 2018. 

• Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of these killings, followed by Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh.

Key Points

• About:
  • The Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), or the Indian Antelope, is a species of antelope native to India and Nepal.
    • It is widespread in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and other areas throughout peninsular India.
  • It is considered as the epitome of the grassland.
  • It is considered to be the fastest animal in the world, next to the Cheetah.
  • The blackbuck is a diurnal antelope (active mainly during the day).
• Recognition: 
  • It has been declared as the State Animal of Punjab, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Cultural Importance:
  • It is a symbol of purity for Hinduism as its skin and horns are regarded as a sacred object. For Buddhism, it is a symbol of good luck.
• Protection Status:
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
  • IUCN Status: Least Concern
  • CITES: Appendix III
• Threats:
  • Habitat Fragmentation, Deforestation, Natural Calamities, Illegal Hunting.
• Related Protected Areas:
  • Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary: Gujarat
  • Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary: Tamil Nadu
  • Kanha National Park: Madhya Pradesh
  • Tal Chhapar Sanctuary: Rajasthan 
  • In 2017, the Uttar Pradesh State Government approved the plan of setting up the Blackbuck Conservation Reserve in the trans-Yamuna belt near Prayagraj. 
    • It would be the first conservation reserve dedicated to the blackbuck.