Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species. It is characterized by dense forests, perennial streams, and hilly terrain.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Mahaveer Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Lalitpur district of Uttar Pradesh, India.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is the Gwalior Airport, located in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, which is approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles) away. The Gwalior Airport operates domestic flights to major cities in India.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is Lalitpur Junction. It is located in Lalitpur district of Uttar Pradesh. It is well-connected to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and other parts of India through regular train services.

Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary History

1. Establishment: The sanctuary was established in 1977 with the primary objective of conserving and protecting the biodiversity of the area. It was recognized as a sanctuary to safeguard the unique ecosystems and provide a safe haven for the region's flora and fauna.

2. Spiritual Connection: The Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is named after Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara (spiritual leader) of Jainism, who is believed to have attained enlightenment in this region.

Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is spreads over an area of 5.4 km2.

Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse and lush flora. The sanctuary's vegetation consists of various types of forests, including tropical dry deciduous forests, mixed forests, and scrubland. Here are some key elements of the flora found in the Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary:

(1) Trees:

The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of tree species. These include teak, sal, tendu, mahua, arjun, bamboo, khair, amla, bel, neem, jamun, kusum, ber, and banyan. These trees provide shade, shelter, and food for various wildlife species in the sanctuary.

(2) Shrubs and Undergrowth:

The undergrowth of the sanctuary comprises a mix of shrubs, bushes, and grasses. Common species include lantana, euphorbia, mimosa, clerodendrum, and a variety of grasses that thrive in the region's climate and soil conditions.

(3) Medicinal Plants:

The sanctuary is also home to several medicinal plants that have traditional and therapeutic uses. Some of the medicinal plants found in the sanctuary include aloe vera, tulsi (holy basil), ashwagandha, safed musli, guggul, and many more. These plants have been traditionally used for their healing properties by local communities.

(4) Climbers and Epiphytes:

The sanctuary's vegetation is further enriched by the presence of climbers and epiphytes. Climbers like betel vine, passionflower, and various species of morning glory are found intertwining with the trees. Epiphytes such as orchids and ferns attach themselves to the trunks and branches of trees, adding beauty and diversity to the sanctuary's ecosystem.

Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna. The sanctuary provides a habitat for numerous animal species, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Here are some notable fauna found in the Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary:

Mammals:

Leopard
Nilgai
Wild Boar
Sambhar
Spotted Deer
Blackbuck
Bear
Jackals
Langur
Monkeys

Birds:

Indian Black Woodpecker
Indian Roller
Grey-headed Bulbul
White-bellied Blue-flycatcher

Reptiles:

Indian Python
King Cobra
Rat Snake
Russell's Viper