India is recognized globally as one of the most biodiverse countries, supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna across its vast landscapes. Its unique geography and climate have fostered the evolution of countless species, making it a focal point for conservation efforts. Let’s analyze the accuracy of some widely cited statements about India’s biodiversity to clarify what is factually correct.

Statement Analysis

A. India has 2.4% of the world’s land area, but accounts for 12% of all recorded species.

• Fact Check: India indeed covers about 2.4% of the world’s land area. However, the proportion of recorded species in India is generally cited as 7–8% of the world’s total, not 12%46. The 12% figure is an overestimate.

B. India has over 45,000 species of animals and 91,000 species of plants.

• Fact Check: This statement is not accurate. According to recent data, India has documented over 104,561 species of fauna (animals) and about 55,387 species of flora (plants)6. The numbers in the statement are outdated and underestimate the actual figures.

C. Four of the globally identified biodiversity hotspots can be found in India.

• Fact Check: This is correct. India harbors four of the world’s 34 recognized biodiversity hotspots: the Western Ghats, the Himalayas, the Indo-Burma region, and Sundaland46.

D. India is estimated to harbour around 60% of the global tiger population.

• Fact Check: This is accurate. India is home to the majority of the world’s wild tigers, with estimates consistently placing the figure at about 60% of the global population38.

Correct Option

Based on the above analysis, the statements that are factually correct are:

• C. Four of the globally identified biodiversity hotspots can be found in India.

• D. India is estimated to harbour around 60% of the global tiger population.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

(4) Both C and D