Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in the Madhya Pradesh.

Due to its proximity to Indore, Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, providing a chance to experience nature and wildlife in a relatively urban setting.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Indore in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. The sanctuary is situated about 20 kilometers (approximately 12 miles) north of Indore city.

Nearest Airport:

Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport is the primary airport serving Indore city and the surrounding region. It is located approximately 25 kilometers (about 16 miles) south of Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

Indore Junction is the main railway station in Indore and is well-connected to major cities across India. It is located approximately 18 kilometers (about 11 miles) south of Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary History

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary has an interesting history that dates back to ancient times. Here's an overview of its historical significance:

1. Ancient Roots: The area around Ralamandal has been historically associated with natural beauty and wilderness. It was likely used as a hunting ground by the rulers of the region in ancient times.

2. Private Reserve: In more recent history, Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary was established as a private hunting reserve by the Holkar dynasty, the rulers of the princely state of Indore in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Holkars were known for their interest in wildlife and conservation, and they maintained Ralamandal as their hunting ground.

3. Shift to Wildlife Sanctuary: After India gained independence, the trend of hunting and private reserves changed, and the need for wildlife conservation became more apparent. In 1989, Ralamandal was officially declared a wildlife sanctuary to protect its biodiversity and wildlife.

4. Tourism and Conservation: Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary's proximity to the city of Indore has made it easily accessible to tourists and wildlife enthusiasts. Over the years, the sanctuary has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike to experience nature and wildlife in a relatively urban environment.

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 5 square kilometers, which is equivalent to about 1,235 acres. It is the smallest wildlife sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh.

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse flora, consisting of various plant species that thrive in the region's mixed forests and hilly terrain. Some of the prominent flora found in the sanctuary include:

Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is one of the dominant tree species in Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a valuable hardwood tree and widely known for its durable wood, making it highly sought after in the timber industry.

Bamboo (Bambusoideae): Bamboo is another significant plant species found in the sanctuary. It grows abundantly in the region and plays a vital role in providing habitat and food for various wildlife species.

Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal trees are commonly found in the sanctuary. These trees are an essential part of the ecosystem and provide shelter and food to a variety of animals and birds.

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): Mahua is a flowering tree found in the sanctuary. Its flowers are used to produce mahua liquor, and the tree's seeds are a valuable food source for wildlife.

Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem trees are known for their medicinal properties and are found in the sanctuary, contributing to the area's biodiversity.

Lendia (Lagerstroemia parviflora): Lendia is a small deciduous tree with beautiful flowers that add to the sanctuary's floral diversity.

Dhawada (Anogeissus latifolia): Dhawada is a tree species commonly found in the dry deciduous forests of the sanctuary.

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various mammal, bird, reptile, and insect species. The sanctuary's mixed forests and hilly terrain provide a suitable habitat for many animals to thrive. Some of the prominent fauna found in Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary include:

Mammals:

Leopard
Black Buck
Sambar
Chital
Barking Deer
Blue bull
Langur
Wild Boar
Indian Fox
Indian Hare

Birds:

Indian Peafowl
Red Vented Bulbul
Rose Ringed Parakeet
Rock Pigeon
Egyptian Vulture
Sirkeer Malkoha
Indian Golden Oriole
Indian Pitta
Gray-bellied Cuckoo
Jungle Babbler
Indian Roller
White-throated Kingfisher
Common Myna
Indian Paradise Flycatcher
Pale-billed Flowerpecker

Reptiles:

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