Vansda National Park UPSC

Vansda National Park, also known as Bansda National Park, is located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity and dense forest cover. 

The park is home to various species of flora and fauna, including several endangered and endemic species. The dominant vegetation consists of moist deciduous forest and bamboo forests.

Vansda National Park Location

Vansda National Park is located in the Vansda tehsil, Navsari District of Gujarat state, India. It is situated in the western part of the state.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Vansda National Park is Surat Airport (also known as Surat International Airport), which is located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) away. Surat Airport is well-connected to major cities in India and serves as the primary airport for the region.

Nearest Railway Station:

Vansda National Park History

Vansda National Park has a rich history that dates back to the pre-independence era of India. 

1. Pre-Independence Era: Vansda National Park has a rich history that dates back to the pre-independence era of India. The area where the park is located was once under the control of the King of Vansda, who utilized it for various activities, including hunting.

2. Declaration as Reserved Forest: In 1942, recognizing the ecological significance of the region, the area was declared as a reserved forest under the British government's Forest Act. This marked an important step towards the protection and conservation of the natural resources in the area.

3. Declaration as Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1959, further measures were taken to safeguard the wildlife and their habitats when the area was declared a wildlife sanctuary under the Wildlife Protection Act of India. This legal protection helped in preserving the diverse flora and fauna found within the sanctuary boundaries.

4. Establishment of Vansda National Park: The culmination of efforts to protect the region's biodiversity led to the establishment of Vansda National Park in 1979. With the official designation as a national park, the area gained enhanced recognition and became a stronghold for conservation efforts.

Vansda National Park Area

Vansda National Park is spread over an area of approximately 24 square kilometers. Despite being relatively small in size compared to other national parks, Vansda National Park is known for its dense forest cover and rich biodiversity. 

The compact size of the park allows for easy exploration and close encounters with wildlife and nature.

Vansda National Park River

The Ambika River flows through the park, providing a water source and creating a diverse habitat for various flora and fauna species.

Ambika River:

• Ambika is one of the major river in Gujarat, India. 
• It is a seasonal river and receives most of its water from the monsoon rains. 
• Its origins in Saputara Hill ranges in the Nasik district of Maharashtra. 
• Ambika has a drainage area of 2715 km2.
• Ambika river is 136 km long.
• Ambika river flows through the Navsari and Surat districts of Gujarat before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
• Gira Waterfall is on the Ambika river.
• Ambika river is home to many varieties of orchids.

Vansda National Park Tribes

There are various adivasi settlements in Vansda from the Dangi tribes, which are made up of the Bhils, Kunbi, Warli, Chowdry, Gamit, Bhoi, and Kukna.

Dangi Tribe:

The Vansda National Park is home to several tribal communities, with the Dangi tribe being the most prominent. The Dangi tribe has been living in the area for centuries and has a unique culture and way of life. The Dangi tribe is primarily engaged in agriculture and forest-based activities such as gathering forest produce, hunting, and fishing. 

The Dangi tribe is known for their unique dance forms and music, which reflect their close relationship with nature. Visitors to the park can experience these cultural performances during their visit and learn more about the rich cultural heritage of the tribal communities living in the area.

Vansda National Park Flora

The Vansda National Park is known for its rich and diverse flora. The park is primarily covered with teak and bamboo forests, but it also has a variety of other plant species. 

The Vansda National Park also has a variety of flowering plants and shrubs, which provide a colorful display during the flowering season. There is a variety of colourful orchids at Ambika river in Vansda National Park.

Here is the Flora of Vansda National Park:

• Teak 
• Sadad
• Bamboo
• Dudhlo
• Kakad
• Khakhro
• Buto
• Timru
• Umbh 
• Kalam
• Modad
• Haldu
• Sisam
• Chopadi bondaro
• Kusum
• Tanach
• Asan
• Mahudo
• Behda
• Umaro
• Shimlo
• Ambla

Vansda National Park Fauna (Vansda National Park Animals/Vansda National Park Wildlife)

Vansda National Park is famous for which animal?

The Vansda National Park is home to a rich and diverse range of wildlife, including several species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

Mammals:

• Leopard
• Rhesus Macaque
• Wild Boar
• Hanuman Langur
• Common Palm Civet
• Small Indian Civet
• Indian Porcupine
• Four-horned Antelope
• Barking Deer
• Hyena
• Jungle Cat
• Flying Squirrel

Leopard in Vansda National Park

Birds:

• Indian Great Black Woodpecker
• Yellow Back Sunbird
• Pompodour Pigeon
• Malabar Trogon 
• Shama
• Common Grey Hornbill
• Jungle Babbler
• Forest Spotted Owlet

Reptiles:

• Russell's Viper
• Saw-scaled Viper
• Common Krait

Vansda National Park UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Vansda National Park located?/Vansda National Park in which district?/Vansda National Park is located in which state of India?

A. Vansda National Park is located in the Vansda tehsil, Navsari District of Gujarat state, India.

Q. Which river flows through Vansda National Park?

A. Ambika river flows through Vansda National Park.

Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park UPSC (Marine National Park in Gujarat UPSC)

The Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is a protected marine area located in the Gulf of Kutch, along the western coast of India. It is the first Marine National Park in India. It is known for its diverse marine ecosystem and rich biodiversity. 

The park is home to a wide range of marine life, including corals, sponges, jellyfish, sea anemones, mollusks, crustaceans, and a variety of fish species. It also serves as an important nesting and breeding site for various marine turtles.

One of the main attractions of the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is the presence of the endangered dugong, also known as the sea cow. The park provides a crucial habitat for these gentle creatures, and efforts are being made to protect and conserve their population.

Visitors to the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park can explore its diverse marine life through activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and boat rides. The park offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists to observe and study the unique marine ecosystem.

Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park Location

The Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is located in the Gulf of Kutch, along the western coast of India. It is situated in the state of Gujarat, specifically in the Jamnagar district. It is situated on the southern shore of the Gulf of Kutch. The nearest major city to the park is Jamnagar, which is approximately 45 kilometers away.

The Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is located in the intertidal zone. The intertidal zone is the area above water level at low tide and underwater at high tide. Intertidal zone is also known as the foreshore.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is the Jamnagar Airport. It is located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, which is approximately 7 kilometers away from the park.

Nearest Railway Station:

Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park History

The Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park has a rich history and significance in the conservation and protection of marine biodiversity. Here's a brief overview of its history:

1. Establishment as a Marine Sanctuary: In 1980, recognizing the ecological significance of the Gulf of Kutch, an area of 270 square kilometers from Okha to Jodiya was designated as a Marine Sanctuary. This initial step marked the beginning of conservation efforts to protect the marine ecosystem in the region.

2. Declaration as a Marine National Park: In 1982, a core area of 110 square kilometers within the Marine Sanctuary was further designated as the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park. It is the first Marine National Park in India. This declaration was made under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 of India. The establishment of the Marine National Park aimed to provide enhanced protection to the unique marine biodiversity found in the Gulf of Kutch.

3. Conservation Objectives: The primary objective of establishing the Marine National Park was to safeguard the diverse marine ecosystem of the Gulf of Kutch. By designating it as a protected area, efforts were made to conserve and preserve the rich biodiversity, including corals, marine fauna, and their habitats within the park's boundaries.

Blackbuck National Park UPSC (Velavadar National Park UPSC)

Blackbuck National Park, also known as Velavadar National Park, is a wildlife sanctuary and national park, located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is situated near the town of Velavadar in the Bhal region of Saurashtra. 

The park was established in 1976 with the primary aim of conserving the blackbuck, a species of antelope native to the Indian subcontinent.

The park is characterized by grasslands, scrublands, and saline plains. It provides a suitable habitat for blackbucks, which are known for their distinctive black and white coat and spiraled horns. 

Blackbuck in Blackbuck National Park

Blackbuck National Park Location

Blackbuck National Park (Velavadar National Park) is located at Velavadar in the Bhavnagar District of Gujarat, India. It is situated near the Velavadar village, which is approximately 42 kilometers from Bhavnagar city. 

Blackbuck National Park is surrounded by wastelands and agriculture fields on the northern side. The Blackbuck National Park's southern region, which borders the Gulf of Khambhat, lies in the high tide zone of the gulf and is prone to periodic inundation by water.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Blackbuck National Park is Bhavnagar Airport, located in Bhavnagar, Gujarat. It is approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles) away from the park.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Blackbuck National Park is The closest railway station is at the town of Dhola, which is about 50 km from the park.

Blackbuck National Park History

Blackbuck National Park has a significant history tied to its establishment and conservation efforts. Here's a brief overview of its history:

1. Hunting Ground of the Maharaja: During the earlier period, the area now known as Blackbuck National Park, or Velavadar National Park, served as a "vidi" (grassland) that belonged to the maharaja of the princely state of Bhavnagar in Gujarat. The maharaja utilized this grassland as a hunting ground, where he would pursue blackbucks with the assistance of his famous hunting cheetahs.

2. Declaration as a Reserve Forest: In the early 20th century, recognizing the need to protect the blackbuck population from excessive hunting and habitat destruction, the area was declared a reserve forest. This step aimed to preserve the blackbucks and their natural habitat, ensuring their long-term survival.

3. Wildlife Sanctuary Status: As awareness and concerns for wildlife conservation grew, the significance of the area as a crucial habitat for blackbucks became more evident. In 1972, it was officially designated as a wildlife sanctuary, providing enhanced protection for the blackbuck species. This declaration marked an important milestone in the park's history and demonstrated a commitment to preserve its unique ecosystem.

4. Establishment as Blackbuck National Park: Building upon its status as a wildlife sanctuary, in 1976, the area was formally established as Blackbuck National Park. This step solidified its position as a dedicated conservation area exclusively focused on the preservation and welfare of blackbucks. The establishment of the national park facilitated more comprehensive management, conservation efforts, and research dedicated to the blackbuck population.

Gir National Park UPSC

Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is a wildlife sanctuary and national park located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is renowned as the last natural habitat of the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) in India. 

Established in 1965, Gir National Park covers an area of approximately 1,412 square kilometers (545 square miles) of diverse ecosystems, including deciduous forests, scrublands, grasslands, and rocky hills.

The Gir National Park also houses a crocodile breeding center. It offers a chance to witness different species of crocodiles, including the marsh crocodile and the critically endangered gharial.

Asiatic Lions in Gir National Park

Gir National Park Location

The Gir National Park (Sasan Gir) is located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat in India. It is situated in the southwestern part of the Saurashtra region of Gujarat in the foothills of the Girnar range, which is an extension of the Western Ghats. 

The Gir National Park is well-connected to the major cities of Gujarat, with good road and rail networks. The Gir National Park is approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) southeast of the city of Junagadh and around 360 kilometers (224 miles) southwest of the city of Ahmedabad. 

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Gir National Park is Keshod airport and Rajkot airport. The Keshod airport is located around 70 km from the park, whereas the Rajkot airport is at a distance of around 160 km.

Nearest Railway Station:

When it comes to the nearest railway station, the Junagadh Railway Station is the closest to Gir National Park. It is located approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the park. The Junagadh Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and other parts of India through regular train services. From Junagadh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gir National Park.

Gir National Park History

Gir National Park has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Here's an overview of the park's history:

1. Historical Significance: The region where Gir National Park is located has historical significance as it was once a royal hunting ground for the Nawabs (rulers) of Junagadh. The area was used for hunting purposes by the royals and their guests.

2. Conservation Efforts: In the early 20th century, the population of Asiatic lions in the Gir forest faced a severe decline due to hunting and habitat loss. Recognizing the need for conservation, the Nawab of Junagadh initiated steps to protect the lions and their habitat.

3. Early Efforts: In 1900, the then Nawab of Junagadh, Sir Muhammad Rasul Khanji, banned hunting in the area and took steps to protect the lion population.

4. Colonial Era: In 1913, the British colonial government declared the region a protected area  to provide further protection to the lions. 

5. Declaration as a Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1965, Gir National Park was established as a wildlife sanctuary to protect the remaining population of Asiatic lions. It was one of the first sanctuaries in India to be established for the conservation of a particular animal species.

6. National Park Status: In 1975, Gir Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a national park. This status highlights the park's role in preserving a fragile ecosystem and promoting sustainable development.

7. Wildlife Conservation Success: Over the years, Gir National Park has played a crucial role in the conservation of the Asiatic lion. Strict protection measures, anti-poaching efforts, and community participation have contributed to the recovery of the lion population. The park's success in conserving the Asiatic lions has become a remarkable conservation story worldwide.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve UPSC

The Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve is a protected area located in the state of Odisha, India. It encompasses a vast region that includes portions of the Eastern Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to the eastern coast of India.

The biosphere reserve holds cultural importance as well. It is believed to be associated with various myths and legends from Hindu mythology. Mahendragiri, the peak after which the reserve is named, is considered a sacred site and holds religious significance for devotees.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve Location

The Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve is located in the Gajapati and Ganjam districts of the state of Odisha, India. It is situated in the eastern part of the country, near the eastern coast.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve is the Visakhapatnam Airport (also known as the Visakhapatnam International Airport), located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. It is approximately 240 kilometers (149 miles) away from the biosphere reserve.

Nearest Railway Station:

 As for the nearest railway station, the Berhampur Railway Station in Ganjam district, Odisha, is the closest option. It is located approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) from the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve History

The history of the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve is closely linked to the ecological and cultural heritage of the region. While specific historical details about the reserve itself might be limited, the area has a long-standing history of human habitation and reverence.

1. Cultural Significance: The region around Mahendragiri has a rich cultural and mythological significance. It is believed to be associated with various legends from Hindu mythology. According to the ancient epic Mahabharata, it is said that Lord Parasurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, performed penance on the slopes of Mahendragiri. The place holds religious importance for devotees and attracts pilgrims.

2. Indigenous Communities: The Mahendragiri region is home to several indigenous communities who have resided in the area for generations. These communities have developed their own unique traditions, practices, and knowledge systems, which are closely linked to the natural environment

3. Biosphere Reserve Proposal: In 2021, the Government of Odisha has put forward a formal proposal to designate a second biosphere reserve in Mahendragiri. This indicates their intention to recognize and protect the ecological value of the region.

Panna Biosphere Reserve UPSC

The Panna Biosphere Reserve is a significant ecological area located in the state of Madhya Pradesh in central India. It was designated as a biosphere reserve by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The Panna Biosphere Reserve holds cultural and historical significance. The area has archaeological sites dating back to the Paleolithic age, with rock paintings and cave art providing insights into the ancient human civilizations that once inhabited the region.

Panna Biosphere Reserve Location

The Panna Biosphere Reserve is located in the Panna and Chhatarpur districts of Madhya Pradesh in central India. It is situated in the Vindhya mountain range in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh.

The nearest town to the reserve is Khajuraho, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Khajuraho Group of Monuments, which is approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) away.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Panna Biosphere Reserve is the Khajuraho Airport. It is located approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) away from the reserve. The Khajuraho Airport has regular domestic flights connecting it to major cities in India.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to the Panna Biosphere Reserve is the Khajuraho Railway Station. It is situated around 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from the reserve. The Khajuraho Railway Station is well-connected to several major cities in India through regular train services.

Panna Biosphere Reserve History

The history of the Panna Biosphere Reserve is rich and diverse, spanning over centuries of human civilization and environmental changes. Here are some key historical aspects of the reserve:

1. Ancient Civilization: The region surrounding the Panna Biosphere Reserve has a long history of human habitation. Archaeological evidence, including rock paintings and cave art, suggests that the area was inhabited by ancient human civilizations, possibly dating back to the Paleolithic age.

2. Hunting Grounds: During various periods of history, the region served as hunting grounds for local rulers and nobles. Wildlife was abundant in the area, including tigers, which were pursued by the royalty for their sport and recreation.

3. Colonial Era: During the British colonial period, the region came under their administrative control. The British recognized the area's natural resources and established forest reserves to manage and exploit them for their commercial value, leading to significant changes in the landscape and wildlife populations.

4. Decline of Wildlife: Over time, excessive hunting and habitat destruction had a severe impact on the wildlife populations in the region, leading to a decline in several species, including the iconic Bengal tiger.

5. Establishment of the Panna National Park: In 1981, the Indian government declared Panna a national park to protect its unique flora and fauna, especially the critically endangered tigers. The park covered an area of about 542 square kilometers (209 square miles).

6. Panna Tiger Reserve: In 1994, Panna National Park was merged with the adjacent Gangau Wildlife Sanctuary to form the Panna Tiger Reserve. The merging of these two areas created a larger and more contiguous habitat for wildlife.

7. Biosphere Reserve: In 2011, it was notified as a Biosphere Reserve by the government of India.

8. UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Designation: In 2020, the Panna Tiger Reserve was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve under Man and Biosphere Programme (MAB) , acknowledging its importance as a unique and valuable ecological area. The biosphere reserve status signifies a commitment to biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and research within the region.

Note- The Panna Biosphere Reserve is the third in Madhya Pradesh to be included in the list after Pachmarhi and Amarkantak.

Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve UPSC

The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve, also known as the Seshachalam Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, is a protected area located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India. The biosphere reserve is named after the Seshachalam Hills, a range of hills that form part of the Eastern Ghats.

The biosphere reserve is of significant cultural and religious importance as well. The sacred Tirumala Venkateswara Temple at Tirupati ,one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, is located within the Seshachalam Hills. The temple attracts millions of devotees each year and contributes to the region's cultural heritage.

Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Location

The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India. It spans across parts of the Chittoor and Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh. The reserve is situated in the southern part of the Eastern Ghats, near the border with Tamil Nadu.

The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) northwest of Tirupati, a major city in Andhra Pradesh. The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, which is within the biosphere reserve, is about 20 kilometers (12 miles) northwest of Tirupati.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is the Tirupati Airport (also known as Renigunta Airport). It is located approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) east of the biosphere reserve. The Tirupati Airport serves as the main gateway for air travel to the region and offers domestic flights to major cities in India.

Nearest Railway Station:

As for the nearest railway station, the Tirupati Railway Station is the most convenient option. It is located in the city of Tirupati, approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) southeast of the biosphere reserve. The Tirupati Railway Station is well-connected to various cities in India and serves as a major railhead for travelers visiting the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve.

Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve History

The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve, located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India, has a long and storied history. This article explores the historical significance of the region and the journey that led to its establishment as a biosphere reserve.

1. Cultural and Religious Significance: The Seshachalam Hills, where the biosphere reserve is situated, hold immense cultural and religious importance. The hills have been revered and worshipped for centuries, primarily due to the presence of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. This Hindu pilgrimage site attracts millions of devotees each year, contributing to the region's cultural heritage.

2. Ancient Origins and Dynastic Influence: The region encompassing the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve has a history that dates back to ancient times. The hills are mentioned in historical and religious texts, and the area has witnessed the influence of various dynasties and kingdoms, including the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara Empire. These dynasties contributed to the cultural and architectural development of the region.

3. Creation of the Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1985, recognizing the need to protect the region's diverse flora and fauna, the Seshachalam Wildlife Sanctuary was established. This sanctuary aimed to conserve the natural resources and biodiversity of the area, laying the foundation for future conservation efforts.

4. Biosphere Reserve Designation: In 2010, the Indian government elevated the status of the Seshachalam Wildlife Sanctuary to that of a biosphere reserve. This designation aimed to promote sustainable development, safeguard the cultural heritage, and conserve the natural resources within the region. The biosphere reserve status highlights the ecological importance of the Seshachalam Hills.