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Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary
Context:
The Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh was officially declared a tiger reserve after receiving in-principle approval from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change through the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
More on News:
- The notification was issued under Section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, recognising the core area as a critical tiger habitat.
- This declaration follows the Madhav National Park also receiving approval to be declared a tiger reserve. The formal notification for Madhav is expected within 15 days of December 1.
About Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Location and Geography:
- Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Raisen and Sehore districts of Madhya Pradesh, within the Vindhya Range, less than 50 kilometres from Bhopal.
- It spans a total area of 1,271.4 square kilometres, including a core area of 763.8 square kilometres and a buffer area of 507.6 square kilometres.
- The sanctuary runs parallel to the northern side of the Narmada River, with the Kolar River forming its western boundary.
- Tiger Reserve Status:
- Ratapani is the eighth tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh, home to over 60 tigers.
- This status brings funding from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), ensuring better management and conservation efforts.
- Biodiversity:
- The sanctuary hosts a wide range of wildlife, including the apex predator tiger, panthers, hyenas, jackals, wild dogs, and chinkaras.
- Endangered species like the chinkara and a variety of aquatic and terrestrial fauna, including crocodiles, thrive here.
- Flora and Landscape:
- Ratapani features dry and moist deciduous forests, with about 55% of the area covered by teak and other mixed dry deciduous species.
- Its rugged terrain includes hills, valleys, plateaus, plains, and significant water bodies like the Ratapani and Dahod reservoirs.
- Historical and Cultural Significance:
- The sanctuary encompasses the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing rock paintings over 30,000 years old.
- Other notable landmarks include Ginnourgarh Fort, POW camp, Keri Mahadeo, and Ratapani Dam.
- Economic and Ecotourism Impact: Tiger reserve status is expected to boost eco-tourism, attract visitors, and provide employment opportunities for local communities.
Impact on Local Villages:
- The reserve includes nine revenue villages covering 26.947 square kilometres.
These villages are integrated into the buffer zone, ensuring that the rights of local villagers remain unaffected by the tiger reserve status.
