Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

Wildlife Institute of India (WII) : Recently, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) raised serious concerns about the quality of the annual progress report for the Captive Elephant Database Project submitted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).

o The Ministry pointed out several shortcomings related to formatting, content, and credibility, and has directed WII to revise and resubmit the report after addressing these issues.

• About WII : An autonomous institution established in 1982 under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India. It was created to promote the development of wildlife science in the country.

o Location: Situated in Dehradun, Uttarakhand and shares boundaries with the Rajaji National Park

o Role: An internationally recognized institute that provides training programmes, academic courses, and expert advice in the field of wildlife research and conservation.

o Key Objectives: Generate scientific knowledge on India’s wildlife resources.

ü Conduct research relevant to field management, including methods suited to Indian conditions.

ü Offer advice and information on specific wildlife management challenges.

ü Collaborate with international organisations in wildlife research, management, and training.

• Research: In various areas including biodiversity and endangered species, wildlife policy and management, forensic wildlife studies, eco-development and climate change, and spatial modelling for conservation planning.