Official Question UPSC 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to the arrival of Amur Falcons at Doyang Lake in Nagaland each year from Mongolia is/are correct? 1. It showcases how sustained local conservation efforts can contribute to the arrival and protection of international migratory birds. 2. It reflects the global success of advanced tracking technologies that guide migratory birds back to their stopover sites. 3. It confirms that Amur Falcons have adapted to permanent residency in India due to favourable habitat changes. Select the answer using the code given below:
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Let us analyze the ecological behavior and conservation status of the Amur Falcon in India:
•Statement 1 is Correct: Doyang Lake in Nagaland is a globally celebrated conservation victory. Historically, hundreds of thousands of these raptors were hunted here during their stopover. A sustained, community-led conservation campaign by locals and the Forest Department transformed the hunters into protectors, earning Nagaland the title 'Falcon Capital of the World'.
•Statement 2 is Incorrect: While scientists do attach lightweight satellite transmitters to these birds, the technology is purely passive. It is used to track and collect data on their migration routes. The technology does not guide the birds; they rely entirely on innate biological navigation systems and environmental cues.
•Statement 3 is Incorrect: Amur Falcons are strictly long-distance migratory birds. They breed in Siberia and Northern China and winter in Southern Africa. They only use Northeast India (Doyang Lake) as a temporary stopover for a few weeks to gorge on insects and build fat reserves. They have not become permanent residents.
Conclusion: Only statement 1 accurately reflects the reality of the Amur Falcon's presence in India.