Uttar Pradesh launches Asia's first vulture breeding center on September 6

The Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Center aims to protect the Red-headed Vulture. The center will not only increase the vulture population but also promote eco-tourism by attracting tourists to see these endangered creatures.

Jatayu, the vulture, holds mythological significance. In the epic Ramayana, Jatayu fought Ravana during Sita's abduction and informed Rama about her whereabouts.

The existence of vultures is under threat globally, with their numbers steadily declining. The Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Center in Gorakhpur's Campierganj, constructed at a cost of Rs 2.80 crore, features breeding aviaries, holding aviaries, hospital aviaries, nursery aviaries, a veterinary section, an administrative building, recovery aviaries, a guard room, a generator room, and pathways.

Currently, the center houses six Red-headed Vultures, cared for by eight staff members under CCTV surveillance.

The Bombay Natural History Society will assist in their care. According to Gorakhpur's DFO, Vikas Yadav, an agreement is in place between the Bombay Natural History Society and the state government for this center, spread across five hectares. Forty vultures will be released in the coming years. Also read: Which state spends the most on liquor? UP ranks 17th.