Answer: An invasive species is an organism (both plant and animals) that is not indigenous, or native, to a particular area but aggressively colonizes and spreads in new habitats, often causing harm to native biodiversity. 

• Outcompeting native species for resources such as food, water and space by growing rapidly and spreading aggressively. 

• For example: Bengal shrub-mint at Kanha Tiger Reserve. 

• Habitat alteration by modifying the physical structure of the environment and changing nutrients cycling patterns. 

• For example: Pasturelands, forests and plantations altered by Lantana camara. 

• Putting predation pressure by invasive predators upon the native species that have not developed defense against them, leading to sharp population decline or even extinction. 

• For example: Birds, reptiles and small mammals predated by alien invasive species, Indian mongoose. 

• Genetic pollution through hybridization resulting from interbreeding with native species, lead to dilution of genetic integrity and possibly extinction of original native species. 

• For example: African catfish introduction from Bangladesh. 

• Disease transmission via introduction of new diseases or parasites to vulnerable native species lacking immunity. 

• For example: Spread of Tomato leaf curl virus in India via non-native tomato varieties. 

• Early detection and monitoring through regular surveys accompanied by early response and rapid control. 

• For example: Zoological Survey of India maintains a database of more than 150 invasive faunal species. 

• Restoration and habitat management using preferably locally adapted native species. 

• For example: Management Action Plans (MAPs) for the restoration of selected wetlands in India. 

• Strict regulation helps in providing a legal framework for necessary actions at all stages of detection and control of invasive species. 
• For example: Central government has brought the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022 which  regulates and prohibits possession of invasive species.
• Research and innovation in the field of genetic engineering and biotechnology could contribute to the development of effective management techniques. 

• For example: Through ICAR, hundreds of universities in India have programmes on various invasive species, use of remote sensing, etc. 

• International cooperation enhances knowledge exchange and coordinated action against invasive species. 

• For example: Coordination under Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, Asia-Pacific Forest Invasive Species Network, etc. 

Invasive species pose a persistent threat to native biodiversity in India. By implementing proactive measures, fostering international collaboration and promoting public awareness, we can safeguard ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future for India's unique and diverse native flora and fauna.