India belongs to the category of "One of the twelve mega biodiversity countries of the world." This classification is based on the rich and diverse natural vegetation and wildlife found in the country. Let's understand why India falls into this category in detail:

**1. Biodiversity Hotspots:**
India is home to several biodiversity hotspots, which are regions with high levels of species richness and endemism. Two such hotspots in India are the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas. These regions support a wide range of flora and fauna, including numerous endemic and threatened species.

**2. Species Richness:**
India's diverse climate, varied topography, and rich ecosystems contribute to its high species richness. The country is home to approximately 7-8% of the world's recorded species, including over 91,000 animal species and more than 45,000 plant species. This includes a wide range of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, and insects.

**3. Endemism:**
India has a significant number of endemic species, which means they are found exclusively within the country's borders. For example, the Indian subcontinent has its own unique set of large mammals, such as the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and Asiatic lion. Additionally, several plant species, like the Neelakurinji flower in the Western Ghats, are found only in specific regions of India.

**4. Protected Areas:**
India has established a network of protected areas to conserve its rich biodiversity. These include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves. The country currently has over 100 national parks and more than 500 wildlife sanctuaries, which provide habitat protection and conservation measures for various species.

**5. Conservation Efforts:**
India has made significant efforts to conserve its biodiversity through various initiatives and policies. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 provides legal protection to wildlife and their habitats, and the Forest Conservation Act of 1980 regulates the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes. The government has also launched programs like Project Tiger and Project Elephant to protect these iconic species.

**Conclusion:**
Considering the significant species richness, endemism, presence of biodiversity hotspots, extensive protected area network, and conservation efforts, India is rightly classified as one of the twelve mega biodiversity countries of the world. The country's natural vegetation and wildlife contribute to its ecological significance and make it a global hotspot for biodiversity conservation.