Wildlife meets warfare: Great Indian Bustard chicks named after military icons

In a unique gesture, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has named five Great Indian Bustard (GIB) chicks after key figures and elements associated with Operation Sindoor, a recent military operation by the Indian government. The initiative pays tribute to national heroes while reinforcing the connection between wildlife conservation and national defence.

Operation Sindoor, a strategic offensive launched to dismantle terrorist hideouts in Pakistan, underscored India’s indigenous defence capability and the role of women in modern warfare. To honour its impact, WII officials named the GIB chicks—born during the operation—Sindoor, Atom, Mishri, Vyom, and Sophia.

According to B. M. Gupta, Deputy Conservator of Forests at Desert National Park, each name holds deep symbolic meaning. “Sindoor,” born on May 5, represents the entire operation. “Atom,” born on May 9, reflects its strategic strength. “Mishri,” born on May 19, pays tribute to a counter cyber-espionage intelligence officer. “Vyom,” born on May 23, is named after Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who led the media briefing during the campaign. “Sophia,” born on May 24, honours Colonel Sophia Qureshi, a pioneer in female military leadership, as quoted by TOI


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Suthirtho Dutta, Senior Scientist and GIB Project Coordinator, the naming as an emotional link between India’s natural heritage and its national defence values. “These chicks now embody the determination, courage, and service that define our armed forces,” he said to TOI

The conservation effort is the result of a collaborative project between the Ministry of Environment and Forests, the WII, and the Rajasthan state government. Utilising advanced AI incubation techniques and hands-on care by forest officials, the project has seen a steady increase in GIB chick births—vital progress for this critically endangered species.

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As the chicks thrive under protected conditions at the Sudasari and Ramdevra conservation centres, the initiative stands as both a conservation milestone and a patriotic tribute. It symbolises how the protection of India’s ecological treasures can also honour the sacrifices and achievements of its defenders.

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(With inputs from TOI)