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. It was established in 2010 and covers an area of approximately 4,755 square kilometers. 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.
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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.
Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve 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.
Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Area
The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve covers an extensive area in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India. The biosphere reserve spans approximately 4,755 square kilometers (1,835 square miles). This significant expanse of land showcases the diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity found within the Seshachalam Hills.
- Core- 750 km2
- Buffer- 1865 km2
- Transition Area- 2140 km2
- Total- 4755 km2
Core Area: The core area of the biosphere reserve covers approximately 750 square kilometers (290 square miles). This zone is typically the most strictly protected, focusing on conserving the most ecologically sensitive and critical habitats within the reserve.
Buffer Zone: The buffer zone surrounding the core area extends over an area of about 1,865 square kilometers (720 square miles). This zone acts as a transition area between the core and the surrounding human-influenced landscapes. Here, certain sustainable activities may be allowed, such as controlled tourism and limited resource utilization, with a focus on maintaining ecological integrity.
Transition Area: The transition area, also known as the outer or experimental zone, encompasses an area of approximately 2,140 square kilometers (830 square miles). This zone represents the wider surroundings of the biosphere reserve and includes areas where human activities and land uses are more prevalent. The transition area aims to balance conservation with sustainable development, promoting practices that ensure the well-being of both the local communities and the natural environment.
Total Area: When combining the core area, buffer zone, and transition area, the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve has a total area of approximately 4,755 square kilometers (1,835 square miles).
Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Hills
The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is predominantly characterized by the Seshachalam Hills, which lend their name to the reserve. The Seshachalam Hills are a range of hills located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India.
The Seshachalam Hills are covered with dense vegetation, including dry deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests, and scrublands. These forests support a wide range of flora and fauna species, making the hills a haven for biodiversity. The diverse vegetation provides food and shelter for numerous animal species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
In addition to their ecological importance, the Seshachalam Hills hold significant cultural and religious significance. The hills are home to the sacred Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, which attracts millions of devotees each year. The temple is an integral part of the religious landscape and adds to the spiritual aura surrounding the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve.
Note- Srivenkateshwara National Park is also located in Seshachalam Hills.
Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Tribe
The native population within the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve includes the Yanadi tribe. The Yanadis are an indigenous tribal community that resides in the region surrounding the biosphere reserve, particularly in the Chittoor and Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh.
The Yanadi tribe has a distinct cultural heritage and a unique way of life. They have traditionally been dependent on the surrounding forests and natural resources for their livelihood, engaging in activities such as hunting, gathering, and small-scale agriculture. The Yanadis have a deep knowledge of the local ecosystems and possess traditional wisdom regarding the use of medicinal plants and sustainable resource management.
Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Flora (Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Forest Type)
The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve boasts a rich and diverse flora, with various plant species thriving in its diverse ecosystems. The flora of the biosphere reserve includes a combination of dry deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests, scrublands, and grasslands.
Here are some notable plant species found in the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve:
(1) Red Sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus):
This tree species is endemic to the Eastern Ghats region and is highly valued for its red-colored timber. Red Sanders is an iconic species of the biosphere reserve and has been subjected to conservation efforts due to illegal logging and trade.
(2) Shorea species:
Several species of the Shorea genus, such as Shorea tumbuggaia and Shorea talura, can be found in the biosphere reserve. These are large canopy trees commonly found in the semi-evergreen and deciduous forests.
(3) Terminalia species:
Terminalia tomentosa (Asan) and Terminalia arjuna (Arjuna) are common tree species in the biosphere reserve. These trees are important for their medicinal properties and ecological significance.
(4) Bamboo species:
Different species of bamboo, including Dendrocalamus strictus (Bamboo), Bambusa arundinacea, and Bambusa bambos, are found in the biosphere reserve. Bamboo provides habitat and food sources for various animals and plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil.
(5) Albizia species:
Albizia lebbeck (Sirisa) and Albizia amara (Ponaganti) are among the prominent Albizia species found in the biosphere reserve. These trees have attractive flowers and provide shade in the forests.
(6) Acacia species:
Acacia nilotica (Babul) and Acacia leucophloea (Vepa) are common Acacia species found in the biosphere reserve. These trees have adaptations to withstand dry conditions and play an essential role in ecosystem restoration.
(7) Grasses and herbs:
The grasslands and scrublands of the biosphere reserve support a variety of grass species, including Imperata cylindrica (Cogon grass) and Saccharum spontaneum (Wild sugarcane). Numerous herbaceous plants, shrubs, and climbers also contribute to the overall flora diversity.
Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Fauna (Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Animals)
The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is home to a diverse range of fauna, with numerous animal species inhabiting its varied ecosystems. The reserve's forests, grasslands, and scrublands support a rich biodiversity, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
Here are some notable fauna species found in the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve:
Mammals:
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Indian Elephant
- Sambar Deer
- Spotted Deer
- Wild Boar
- Indian Pangolin
- Indian Giant Squirrel
- Bonnet Macaque
Birds:
- Indian Roller
- Peafowl
- Painted Stork
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- White-bellied Woodpecker
- Indian Robin
- Asian Paradise Flycatcher
- Yellow-throated Bulbul
Reptiles:
- Indian Rock Python
- Indian Cobra
- Russell's Viper
- Indian Monitor Lizard
- Common Skink
Amphibians:
- Malabar Gliding Frog
- Indian Bullfrog
- Wrinkled Frog
- Common Indian Toad
Top Things to do in Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve
When visiting the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve, there are several activities and experiences that you can enjoy to make the most of your trip. Here are some of the top things to do in the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve:
- Wildlife Safari
- Trekking
- Birdwatching
- Nature Photography
- Visit Tirumala Venkateswara Temple
- Nature Walks
- Interact with Local Communities
- Conservation Awareness Programs
Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve UPSC Questions
Q. Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve in which state?/Where is Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve located?
A. The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is located in the Chittoor and Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh, India.
Q. Which national parks are under Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve?
A. Sri Venkateswara National Park.
Q. Which river passes through Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve?
A. Papagani river passes through Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve.
Q. What is the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve famous for?
A. The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is famous for several reasons, each contributing to its significance and recognition. Here are some aspects for which the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is well-known:
- Biodiversity Hotspot
- Red Sanders Trees
- Sacred Pilgrimage Site
- Conservation Efforts
- Scenic Landscapes
- Indigenous Communities
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