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.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Hills
River
Tribe
Flora
Fauna

Mammals
Birds
Reptile

UPSC Questions

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.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve Area

The Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve covers an expansive area of approximately 4,709.55 square kilometers. This vast expanse allows for the preservation and conservation of the diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity found within the reserve.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve Hills

The Mahendragiri Hills are a prominent geographical feature within the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve. Located in the eastern part of India, in the state of Odisha, the Mahendragiri Hills are part of the Eastern Ghats mountain range. These hills are known for their natural beauty, breathtaking vistas, and diverse ecosystems.

The Mahendragiri Hills have a significant cultural and mythological significance. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Parasurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, performed penance on these hills. As a result, the hills are considered sacred by devotees and attract pilgrims.

From an ecological perspective, the Mahendragiri Hills support a wide range of plant and animal species. The hilly terrain provides diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, and streams, which contribute to the rich biodiversity found in the region. Various species of flora and fauna, including endemic and endangered ones, call the Mahendragiri Hills their home.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve River

The Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve is blessed with several rivers and water bodies that contribute to its ecological richness and support diverse ecosystems.

Here are a few rivers that are in proximity to the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve:

(1) Rushikulya River:

The Rushikulya River flows through the Ganjam district of Odisha, which is adjacent to the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve. It is known for its significance as an arribada nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles.

(2) Bahuda River:

Bahuda River is another notable river located near the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve. It also passes through the Ganjam district and contributes to the water resources and ecosystem in the region.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve Tribe

The Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve is home to several indigenous tribal communities who have a deep connection with the land and its natural resources. These tribes have been living in the region for generations and have developed unique cultures, traditions, and knowledge systems that are closely intertwined with the surrounding environment.

The presence of the Soura people and the Kandha tribe in the Mahendragiri region highlights the cultural diversity and indigenous heritage of the area. Here is some additional information about these tribes:

(1) Soura People:

The Soura people, also known as the Savara or Saora, are an indigenous tribal group primarily found in the hilly regions of Odisha, including parts of the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve. They have their distinct language, customs, and cultural practices. The Soura people traditionally depend on agriculture, forest resources, and minor forest produce for their livelihoods. They have a rich cultural heritage, including unique folk songs, dances, and traditional handicrafts.

(2) Kandha Tribe:

The Kandha tribe, also known as the Kondh or Kondha, is another indigenous community found in the hilly areas of Odisha. They are one of the largest tribal groups in the region and have a strong presence in the Mahendragiri vicinity. The Kandha tribe has a rich cultural heritage, with unique rituals, music, and art forms. They have a close connection with the land, practicing shifting agriculture and traditional knowledge of forest resources.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve Flora

The Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve boasts a diverse and unique flora due to its location in the Eastern Ghats mountain range and the presence of different ecosystems within the reserve. The flora found in the biosphere reserve includes a variety of plant species, ranging from tropical evergreen forests to dry deciduous forests and scrublands.

Some of the prominent flora found in the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve may include:

(1) Tropical Evergreen Forest Species:

These forests are characterized by a dense canopy of evergreen trees that retain their foliage throughout the year. Trees like Sal (Shorea robusta), Piasal (Pentacme suavis), and Amoora (Amoora wallichii) are common in this habitat.

(2) Dry Deciduous Forest Species:

These forests experience distinct wet and dry seasons, leading to the shedding of leaves during the dry period. Species such as Teak (Tectona grandis), Terminalia species, Anogeissus latifolia, and Lagerstroemia species are often found in these forests.

(3) Bamboo:

Bamboo species, such as Dendrocalamus strictus and Bambusa arundinacea, are prevalent in the biosphere reserve. They play an essential role in providing habitat for wildlife and offering a variety of uses for the local communities.

(4) Medicinal Plants:

The region is also known for its rich diversity of medicinal plants. Various herbs and plants like Aloe vera, Neem (Azadirachta indica), and Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) have medicinal properties and are traditionally used by local communities.

(5) Grasslands and Scrublands:

The biosphere reserve may have areas of grasslands and scrublands, which support unique flora adapted to drier conditions. These areas often consist of various grass species and shrubs, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.

(6) Endemic Species:

The Eastern Ghats region, including the Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve, is home to several endemic plant species. These are species that are found only in this specific geographic area and are of significant conservation value.

Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve Fauna (Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve Animals)

The Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve supports a wide array of fauna, including diverse animal species that thrive in its various ecosystems. The reserve's location in the Eastern Ghats and the presence of forests, hills, and other habitats contribute to its rich biodiversity.

Here are some examples of the fauna that inhabit the region:

Mammals:

Indian Elephant
Indian Gaur
Sloth Bear
Sambar Deer
Indian Leopard
Indian Giant Squirrel
Rhesus Macaque
Indian Pangolin
Indian Wild Dog

Birds:

Indian Peafowl
Indian Pitta
Indian Paradise Flycatcher
White-rumped Shama
Asian Fairy Bluebird
Crested Serpent Eagle
Indian Roller
White-bellied Woodpecker

Reptiles:

Indian Cobra
King Cobra
Russell's Viper
Indian Rock Python
Common Monitor Lizard
Indian Chameleon
Common Indian Skink