The national heritage animal of India is the Elephant.

Introduction:
The national heritage animal of India holds a special significance in the country's culture, history, and biodiversity. It represents the rich wildlife and natural heritage of the nation. The Elephant has been chosen as the national heritage animal of India due to its cultural, religious, and ecological importance.

Cultural and Religious Significance:
- The Elephant plays a significant role in Indian mythology and religious practices. It is associated with various Hindu deities like Lord Ganesha, who is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom.
- Elephants are an integral part of religious processions, festivals, and ceremonies in many parts of India. They are adorned with decorative ornaments and carry idols of deities during religious processions.
- In Kerala, the state animal of India is the Elephant. The Thrissur Pooram festival in Kerala is known for its grand elephant procession, attracting thousands of visitors.

Ecological Importance:
- Elephants are considered as "ecosystem engineers" as they play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining the biodiversity of the forests. They are known to create water holes, disperse seeds through their dung, and clear paths in dense forests, thus contributing to the regeneration and diversity of plant species.
- Their feeding habits help in controlling the growth of certain plant species, preventing the domination of any particular plant and maintaining the balance in the ecosystem.
- Elephants are also known as "umbrella species" as their conservation indirectly benefits a wide range of other species that share their habitat. By protecting the elephants and their habitat, numerous other species are also safeguarded.

Conservation Efforts:
- India has been taking significant steps to conserve and protect elephants. The Indian government has established several national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and protected areas to provide a safe habitat for elephants.
- Projects like Project Elephant have been implemented to ensure the conservation and welfare of elephants in India. These projects focus on various aspects such as habitat management, protection against poaching and illegal trade, and creating awareness among local communities.
- The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 in India provides legal protection to elephants and prohibits their hunting, capture, and trade.

Conclusion:
The Elephant, with its cultural, religious, and ecological significance, has been rightfully chosen as the national heritage animal of India. It is a symbol of India's rich biodiversity and represents the country's commitment to wildlife conservation and ecological balance. The conservation efforts and awareness programs have played a crucial role in ensuring the protection and welfare of elephants in India.