Endemic Species of Indian Biodiversity Hotspots

In recent years, the conservation of biodiversity and the maintenance of ecological balance have come under increasing pressure due to habitat fragmentation, rapid development, and the impacts of global warming. These challenges have raised serious concerns worldwide about the accelerating loss of biological diversity.

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

Global concern for biodiversity conservation found formal expression with the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992. The CBD is the first comprehensive international agreement addressing biodiversity in all its dimensions. It is built around three key objectives:

• Conservation of biological diversity
• Sustainable use of its components
• Fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources

The Conference of the Parties (CoP) serves as the governing body of the Convention and guides its implementation through decisions taken at periodic meetings.

India and the Conference of Parties (CoP-11)

The tenth meeting of the Conference of Parties was held in Nagoya, Japan, from 18–29 October 2010. Continuing its commitment to biodiversity conservation, India hosted the eleventh Conference of Parties (CoP-11) to the CBD in Hyderabad from 1–19 October 2012.

Endemic Species of Indian Biodiversity Hotspots

To commemorate CoP-11, the Department of Posts is issuing a set of four Commemorative Postage Stamps and a Miniature Sheet, depicting four endemic species from India’s biodiversity hotspots—each representing the fragile richness of the country’s natural heritage.

Bugun Liocichla (Liocichla bugunorum)

The Bugun Liocichla is a rare bird species classified as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List. Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh, it symbolizes the importance of conserving little-known species found in restricted habitats.

Nicobar Megapode (Megapodius nicobariensis)

Endemic to the Nicobar Islands, the Nicobar Megapode inhabits forested and coastal areas. In 2006, the estimated number of breeding pairs stood at 788. The species faces significant threats from the loss and fragmentation of coastal forests due to agricultural expansion and infrastructure development.

Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock hoolock)

The Hoolock Gibbon, India’s only ape species, is a forest-dwelling primate and an important seed disperser. Its diet consists mainly of ripe fruits, along with flowers and leaves. Habitat encroachment, forest clearance, and degradation pose serious threats to its survival in the wild.

Venated Gliding Frog (Rhacophorus malabaricus)

The Venated Gliding Frog is a critically endangered amphibian restricted to the Indira Gandhi National Park and surrounding regions of the South Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, at elevations of 1000–1300 metres. Conversion of forest land for cultivation and timber extraction are the main threats to this species.

Commemorative Postage Stamps for Conservation

Through this commemorative stamp issue, the Department of Posts actively participates in raising awareness about the conservation of India’s rich biodiversity. The stamps and miniature sheet serve not only as philatelic collectibles but also as lasting reminders of the nation’s responsibility to protect its unique and endangered natural heritage.