Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Goa, India. It is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and various attractions.
One of the most famous attractions within the sanctuary is the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, which translates to "Sea of Milk." It's one of India's tallest waterfalls and presents a spectacular sight, especially during the monsoon season. Tambdi falls and the Devil’s Canyon is also famous in the sanctuary.
The Tambdi Surla temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient temple located within the sanctuary. It holds cultural and historical significance.
A core area of the sanctuary was declared as the Mollem National Park in 1978. This designation highlights the importance of the area for biodiversity conservation and national significance.
Visiting the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary offers an opportunity to connect with nature, experience breathtaking landscapes, observe wildlife, and learn about the importance of conservation efforts.
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Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the South Goa district of Goa, India. It is located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to India's western coast.
It is easily accessible from various parts of Goa and is approximately an hour's drive from the state's capital, Panaji.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the Dabolim Airport, also known as Goa International Airport. This airport is located in Dabolim, Goa, and is the primary international gateway to the state.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway stations to the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary are Margao Railway Station and Vasco da Gama Railway Station, both of which are in Goa. These railway stations are well-connected to major cities in India and serve as entry points for travelers coming to explore the sanctuary and its surrounding areas.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary History
The history of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary dates back to its establishment and the subsequent developments in its conservation and protection. Here's an overview of its history:
Establishment: The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1967 as a protected area to conserve the diverse flora and fauna of the region. It was initially known as the Mollem Game Sanctuary.
Name Change: This area was renamed Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary after the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, Lord Mahavir.
Mollem National Park: In 1978, the core area of the sanctuary was designated as the Mollem National Park. The Mollem National Park is a part of the larger Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
Conservation Efforts: Over the years, the sanctuary and national park have been managed with a focus on biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection, and habitat preservation. These efforts include anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and raising awareness about the importance of the region's ecological balance.
Recognition: The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park are recognized as important components of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This recognition highlights their significance in preserving a unique and diverse range of plant and animal species.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 133 square kilometers. This area includes diverse habitats such as West Coast tropical evergreen forests, West Coast semi-evergreen forests, and moist deciduous forests.
Within this larger sanctuary area, the core region covering 107 square kilometers was designated as the Mollem National Park in 1978. This park is a key component of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and is named after Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
What is the flora of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary?
The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by a rich and diverse range of flora due to its varied habitats, including West Coast tropical evergreen forests, West Coast semievergreen forests, and moist deciduous forests.
The sanctuary's flora contributes significantly to its ecological importance and serves as habitat and food source for various wildlife species.
Terminalia: Various species of Terminalia trees are found in the sanctuary. These trees are known for their timber and medicinal uses.
Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle): These flowering trees are known for their colorful blooms and are a common sight in the sanctuary.
Xylia: Xylia trees are important components of the sanctuary's forests, contributing to the overall diversity of tree species.
Dalbergia: Species of Dalbergia, or rosewood trees, are present in the sanctuary. Some of these trees are valued for their timber.
Various Flowering Plants: The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flowering plants, contributing to its vibrant ecosystem. There are 722 species of flowering plants found in the area.
Endemic Plants: The Western Ghats is known for its high levels of endemism. The sanctuary hosts 128 species of plants that are endemic to the Western Ghats, showcasing its unique biodiversity.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of fauna, including various species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and more. Here are some examples of the fauna you might find in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Leopard Cat
- Sambar Deer
- Spotted Deer (Chital)
- Hog Deer
- Mouse Deer
- Barking Deer
- Indian Bison (Gaur)
- Wild Boar
- Jungle Cat
- Toddy Cat
- Lesser Indian Civet
- Wild Dog (Dhole)
- Striped Hyena
- Sloth Bear
- Jackal
- Bonnet Macaque
- Slender Loris
- Indian Pangolin
- Flying Squirrel (Giant and others)
- Common Otter
Birds:
- Ruby-throated Yellow Bulbul (State Bird of Goa)
- Golden Oriole
- Emerald Dove
- Common Grey Hornbill
- Paradise Flycatcher
- Great Pied Hornbill
- Malabar Pied Hornbill
- Malabar Trogon
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Crested Honey Buzzard
Reptiles:
- Various snake species
- Monitor Lizard
- Indian Chameleon
- Various species of skinks and geckos
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary located?/In which state is Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Goa, India. It is situated in the western part of the country, in the foothills of the Western Ghats mountain range.
Q. What is Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary famous for?
A. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:
(i) Diverse Wildlife: The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, housing a wide variety of flora and fauna. It provides a habitat for numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and more, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
(ii) Mollem Waterfalls: The sanctuary is home to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. These majestic falls are a significant attraction for tourists and offer a stunning natural spectacle, especially during the monsoon season.
(iii) Trekking and Eco-Tourism: The sanctuary offers various trekking trails that allow visitors to explore the lush forests, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife. These treks provide an opportunity to experience nature up close and promote eco-tourism and outdoor activities.
(iv) Cultural and Historical Sites: In addition to its natural attractions, the sanctuary also houses cultural and historical sites. The Tambdi Surla temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient and well-preserved temple located within the sanctuary's boundaries.
(v) Mollem National Park: A core area within the sanctuary has been designated as the Mollem National Park, emphasizing its conservation importance at the national level and contributing to the preservation of Western Ghats biodiversity.
(vi) Western Ghats Biodiversity: The sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity. Its presence in the Western Ghats contributes to the conservation of this globally significant region.
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