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Dibru Saikhowa National Park, located in the Tinsukia district of Assam, is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in India. Known for its lush forests, diverse wildlife, and unique ecosystem, it is a key area for conservation efforts. For UPSC aspirants, understanding Dibru Saikhowa is crucial as it features in topics related to environment, biodiversity, and conservation under the Indian Forest and Wildlife Acts.
Dibru Saikhowa National Park is situated in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra and Lohit rivers in northeastern Assam. The park covers an area of 340 sq. km, with a buffer zone of 425 sq. km. The presence of wetlands, grasslands, and semi-evergreen forests makes it one of the richest areas in terms of biodiversity.
Key Geographical Features:
Lies between 27°30′ to 27°45′ N latitude and 95°10′ to 95°45′ E longitude.
Surrounded by Brahmaputra River on the north and Dibru River on the south.
Located near Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot.
Home to numerous wetlands, islands, and shifting riverine habitats.
Dibru Saikhowa National Park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a priority for conservation under various environmental programs.
Flora:
The park is home to over 350 species of trees and plants, including:
Moist mixed deciduous forests
Tropical evergreen forests
Grasslands and swamp vegetation
Common tree species include Hollong (State Tree of Assam), Mekai, Koroi, and Urium. The park also has extensive cane and bamboo forests along with floating grass islands.
Fauna:
The park supports a variety of mammalian, avian, and reptilian species.
Mammals:
Dibru Saikhowa is famous for:
Feral Horses – One of the few places in India where wild horses can be found.
Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris)
Leopards (Panthera pardus fusca)
Indian Elephant (Elephas maximus indicus)
Gangetic Dolphin (Platanista gangetica)
Hoolock Gibbons (Hoolock hoolock) – India’s only ape species.
Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) – A critically endangered species.
Birds:
Dibru Saikhowa is an Important Bird Area (IBA), home to over 500 bird species, including:
White-winged Duck (Asarcornis scutulata) – State bird of Assam.
Greater Adjutant Stork (Leptoptilos dubius) – Endangered.
Black-breasted Parrotbill (Paradoxornis flavirostris) – Found in grasslands.
Indian Skimmer (Rynchops albicollis) – A rare species.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
The park houses crocodiles, monitor lizards, and various snake species, including the King Cobra. The wetlands support frog and toad species vital to the ecosystem.
Protected Area Status:
Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1986.
Upgraded to a National Park in 1999.
Recognized as a Biosphere Reserve in 2004.
Threats to the Park:
Floods and Erosion: The dynamic river system alters the landscape frequently.
Encroachments: Illegal settlements threaten biodiversity.
Poaching: Wildlife trafficking remains a concern.
Pollution: Industrial activities in nearby Tinsukia affect water quality.
Conservation Measures:
Eco-sensitive Zone (ESZ): Ensures limited human interference.
Community-Based Conservation: Involves local tribes like the Mishing and Moran in sustainable practices.
Project Tiger & Elephant Reserves: Adjacent regions fall under these schemes.
Dibru Saikhowa is a major eco-tourism destination due to its rich biodiversity. Popular activities include:
The Assam government promotes responsible tourism through regulated safaris and community involvement in tourism-based livelihoods.
Environment & Ecology (GS Paper 3) – Dibru Saikhowa is part of multiple biodiversity conservation programs.
Geography (GS Paper 1) – Its unique floodplain ecosystem offers insights into riverine landscapes.
Current Affairs – The national park frequently appears in news regarding conservation efforts.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Tinsukia, Assam |
| Area | 340 sq. km |
| Major Rivers | Brahmaputra, Dibru, Lohit |
| Notable Species | Feral Horses, White-winged Duck, Hoolock Gibbon |
| Conservation Status | National Park (1999), Biosphere Reserve (2004) |
Dibru Saikhowa National Park is a crucial biodiversity hotspot with immense ecological importance. Its conservation is essential for maintaining India’s environmental balance. For UPSC aspirants, studying such parks provides insights into conservation policies, sustainable development, and biodiversity management, making it a relevant topic for examination preparation.
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