NEW DELHI, August 5 — The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched a dedicated Conservation Action Plan on Wednesday to protect the endangered clouded leopard on International Clouded Leopard Day.
The action plan focuses on mapping habitats in the northeastern states, preventing poaching, and establishing local community programs to protect the species. The clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) is primarily found in the foothills of the Himalayas and dense evergreen forests of Northeast India.
Wildlife experts stated that habitat loss and illegal trade are the primary threats to the species. The plan includes setting up camera trap networks across tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries to track populations.
Biodiversity and wildlife conservation programs are standard topics in general studies exams. Candidates should note that the clouded leopard is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and is protected under Schedule I of India's Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.