The Great Indian Bustard is a large, ground‑dwelling bird that has become critically endangered due to habitat loss.
The rewilding project follows a decade of captive‑breeding, scientific research, and habitat management across Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Scientists used the ‘jumpstart’ technique, placing captive‑bred eggs in wild nests, to boost chick survival.
The initiative is expected to provide data for future reintroductions and promote eco‑tourism benefits for local communities.
The effort is guided by national conservation policies and the Supreme Court’s directives on protecting the species.
A new rewilding aviary was built to let the birds strengthen their flight muscles and learn natural behaviours before release.
Two birds will be released this Sunday using a soft‑release approach that limits human disturbance.
The programme, which includes habitat restoration and community involvement, aims to increase the bird’s numbers and support the desert ecosystem.
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