The First Wildlife Sanctuaries in India: History and Significance
India is renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife, and its commitment to preserving this natural heritage through the establishment of numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. This article explores the first wildlife sanctuaries in India, including Hailey National Park, Chandoli Wildlife Sanctuary, and Manas National Park, and their significance in the history of conservation efforts.
Historical Background
India's conservation history dates back to the early 20th century, with the establishment of its first national park. According to historical records, the first national park was Hailey National Park, now known as Rajaji National Park, which was established in 1936 in the state of Uttarakhand. This park is named after Swat Chittor Mohd. Rajaji, who was the third Governor-General of India. It is located in the Doon Valley and extends over an area of about 821 km2.
The Oldest National Park: Jim Corbett National Park
The Jim Corbett National Park, located in the Nainital district and Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, is the oldest national park in India. It was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, named after the renowned naturalist and game hunter, Edward James Corbett, who is better known as Jim Corbett. The park covers an area of approximately 521 square kilometers and is home to the endangered Bengal tiger. It played a crucial role in the Project Tiger initiative, which was launched to conserve the Bengal tiger and its habitat.
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary: A Treasure Trove of Medicinal Plants
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1987 in the South Sikkim district, is another significant first in India's conservation history. This sanctuary is situated in an area of approximately 35 square kilometers and is known for its rich biodiversity, particularly the abundance of medicinal plants. The name 'Maenam' itself translates to 'house of medicines,' reflecting the sanctuary's value as a source of medicinal herbs.
Chandoli Wildlife Sanctuary: The First Wildlife Sanctuary in India
Drilling into the history of India's first wildlife sanctuary, the Chandoli Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra holds that distinction. Established in 1985, it is located in the Western Ghats and covers an area of about 52.37 square kilometers. Chandoli was the first sanctuary to be established after the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which provided legislative backing for the creation of wildlife sanctuaries.
Manas National Park: A Beacon of Conservation
Manas National Park, also known as Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, is the first sanctuary or national park in India to serve multiple conservation purposes, being a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, a Project Tiger reserve, an elephant reserve, and a biosphere reserve. Spread across the Brahmaputra and Manas rivers in Assam, this park covers an extensive area of about 950 square kilometers. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including Bengal tigers, elephants, and a variety of avian species.
India's Wildlife Sanctuaries: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
India is home to over two thousand different species of birds, 3500 species of mammals, nearly 30,000 different kinds of insects, and more than 15,000 varieties of plants. The wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in India not only serve as protected habitats for many species but also play a vital role in preserving the ecological balance. These sanctuaries are a testament to India's commitment to conservation and biodiversity.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
The establishment of these first wildlife sanctuaries in India marks a significant milestone in the country's conservation journey. They not only protect endangered species but also preserve habitats and ecosystems. As India continues to grow and develop, the importance of these protected areas remains paramount. It is crucial to maintain their integrity to ensure the survival of these precious natural resources.
References
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, August 12). Rajaji National Park. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 15:35, August 26, 2021 from _National_Parkoldid1038405300
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, August 12). Jim Corbett National Park. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 15:35, August 26, 2021 from _Corbett_National_Parkoldid1038469667
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, August 12). Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 15:35, August 26, 2021 from _Wildlife_Sanctuaryoldid1038409095
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, August 12). Manas National Park. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 15:35, August 26, 2021 from _National_Parkoldid1038442919