First-Ever National Bat Assessment

On 17^th April 2026, the first comprehensive national report titled “State of India’s Bats (2024-25)” revealed that bat species across India are under increasing threat due to urbanisation, habitat loss, and lack of research.

Context

• India’s first nationwide bat conservation assessment was released.
• Conducted by experts from:
  • Nature Conservation Foundation &
  • Bat Conservation International.
• Duration: 2 years

Key Findings

• India has around 135 bat species.
• Of these:
  • 16 are endemic (found only in India).
  • 7 are threatened (IUCN-listed).
  • 35 species are data deficient or unassessed.
• Major threats include:
  • Urbanisation,
  • Deforestation,
  • Land-use change, and
  • Climate impacts.

Ecological Importance of Bats

• Act as:
  • Pollinators of plants;
  • Seed dispersers aiding forest regeneration; and
  • Natural pest controllers protecting crops.
• Provide: ....