The Union Cabinet on 29th December 2015 approved to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia. It is also called the ‘Raptor MoU’ with the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS). It was initiated on October 22, 2008 and came into effect on November 1 the same year.

The CMS or Bonn Convention, under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), aims to conserve migratory species throughout their range. India had become a party to the CMS since November 1, 1983.

What is Raptor MoU?

• The Raptor MoU is an agreement under Article IV paragraph 4 of the CMS and is not legally binding.
• The MOU seeks willingness of the signatory Range States for working for conservation of the raptor species and their habitats.
• An action plan has been formulated which primarily envisages the conservation action for Raptor species.
• The Raptors MoU extends its coverage to 76 species of birds of prey out of which 46 species, including vultures, falcons, eagles, owls, hawks, kites, harriers, etc. also occur in India.
• Considering that the Raptor MOU is also in conformity with the provisions of the existing Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972.
• Pakistan and Nepal are the other neighbours who are signatories to this MoU.