Preserve smaller species of life: Kapil Sibal

Bangalore, Nov 25 (UNI) Union Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal today stressed the need for preservation of smaller species of flora and fauna as they are the building blocks of life.

Inaugurating the world's largest and the country's first butterfly park at the Bannerghatta National Park on the outskirts of the city, he said one always thought of big and powerful forms of life and forgot the smaller ones. But, it was essential to protect them for the very survival of human race.

The Minister said the park, set up at a cost of Rs five crore, would not only be an eco-tourism spot, but also help in preserving butteflies.

The Butterfly Park, comprising a conservatory, museum, research lab and education centre, was taken up as a joint initiative of the Union Department of Biotechnology, the Karnataka Government, University of Agricultural Sciences and Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment, an NGO.

The park, spread over seven acres of land, intended to promote greater public awareness and appreciation and facilitate conservation of butterflies, besides breeding endangered species in captivity.

Mr Sibal said the conservation-oriented park was the symbol of Team India Spirit and would showcase India's efforts towards protecting the smaller species of life.

''This is an occasion for celebration for taking a lead to create a unique Butterfly Park for our children,'' he said.

UNI SIV GD RL HS1736