India has released two captive-bred male Great Indian Bustards into the wild at Sam in the Desert National Park, Jaisalmer, a historic first for the critically endangered species.Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav released the birds on October 4, marking the first experimental rewilding of birds produced under India's conservation-breeding programme. The release process began on October 3 with minimal human disturbance.The two birds were fitted with tracking devices so scientists can follow their movements, habitat selection, feeding behaviour and survival. The learnings will shape protocols for future releases.India's captive-breeding programme has grown considerably: facilities at Sam and Ramdevra hold 97 birds, of which 40 came from wild-laid eggs and 57 were bred in captivity. Eleven are earmarked for release.The Bustard Recovery Programme is run by the Environment Ministry, Rajasthan Forest Department and the Wildlife Institute of India, with support from the International Fund for Houbara Conservation and National CAMPA.