Step to the Conservation of Migratory Birds

The Union Cabinet, has given its approval to sign Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia, also called the 'Raptor MOU' with the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS). With the signing of this MOU, India will become the 54^th signatory to the MOU.
About Raptor MOU
- concluded on 22nd October 2008 and came into effect on 1st November 2008.
- It is not legally binding.
- It is an agreement for conservation of the raptor species and their habitats.This 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. 
- Benefits for India:  India would gain domain knowledge which would be helpful in effectively managing the habitats of these Raptors, including concerted trans-boundary efforts for conservation through interaction with other range countries.
- Pakistan and Nepal are the other neighbours who are signatories to this MOU.