Panna National Park, situated in Madhya Pradesh, is a treasure trove of biodiversity and natural beauty. Panna National Park offers a sanctuary for endangered species, making it a vital link in India’s conservation landscape. In this article, we will discuss its rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and conservation efforts.
The Panna ‘National Park’ was established in 1981. It received the status of a tiger reserve in 1994 under “Project Tiger.” UNESCO designated the Panna Tiger Reserve as a Biosphere Reserve in 2011. In 2021, Panna Tiger Reserve was awarded the Conservation Assured Tiger Standards (CAITS) certificate by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for meeting the established international standards for tiger conservation and management.
Location and Geography
- Situated in the Vindhya Range, Panna National Park sprawls over an area of approximately 542 square kilometers and is located in Panna and Chhatarpur districts of Madhya Pradesh.
- The park is flanked by the Ken River to the west, providing a lifeline to the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
- Ken River and Waterfalls: The Ken River meanders through the park, creating serene landscapes and providing a lifeline for the resident wildlife. Panna boasts several magnificent waterfalls, such as Pandav Falls and Raneh Falls, adding scenic beauty to the park.
Wildlife Diversity
- Panna is renowned for its population of Bengal tigers, offering visitors a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
- Besides tigers, the park is home to other fascinating predators like leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, and more.
- Rich avian life flourishes here, with over 300 species of birds, including migratory birds adding color and melody to the landscape.
- Barasingha, also known as Swamp Deer, are not found in Panna. The Barasingha population in Panna National Park faced a decline and was extirpated from the area due to various factors, including habitat loss and poaching. Barasingha are mainly found in Kanha national Park where Bhoorsingh is the official mascot.
Conservation Efforts
- Panna National Park has witnessed incredible conservation successes, particularly the revival of its tiger population.
- The park’s dedicated conservation programs and vigilant forest officials have been instrumental in this revival.
- Initiatives like community involvement, anti-poaching drives, and habitat restoration have played a crucial role in protecting the park’s diverse wildlife.
Flora and Fauna of Panna National Park
- Panna’s topography varies from plateaus to gorges, supporting diverse habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species.
- The park is home to numerous species of plants, including teak, sal, mahua, and jamun, providing essential sustenance for wildlife.
- Apart from tigers and other predators, Panna shelters herds of spotted deer, sambars, and nilgai, creating a harmonious ecosystem.
Safari and Adventure
- The best way to explore Panna National Park is through thrilling jungle safaris that take visitors deep into its wilderness.
- Morning and evening safaris offer a chance to witness the park’s residents in their most active moments.
- Nature walks and birdwatching excursions are also available, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Panna National Park is a captivating wonderland that exemplifies India’s commitment to wildlife conservation. Its unique blend of biodiversity, natural splendor, and success stories in tiger conservation make it an unmissable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Related Information
Panna Tiger Reserve
- Formation: Panna Tiger Reserve was established in 1981 as a wildlife sanctuary, and later in 1994, it was declared as a tiger reserve under the Project Tiger initiative by the Government of India.
- Location: Situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India, Panna Tiger Reserve is nestled within the Panna National Park, which spreads over an area of 542 square kilometers.
- Significance: The reserve is known for its remarkable conservation efforts and biodiversity richness. It is a critical habitat for the endangered Bengal tigers, ensuring their survival and promoting ecological balance in the region.
- Awards: Panna Tiger Reserve has received recognition and accolades for its exceptional conservation work. It was awarded the “Best Maintained National Park” by the Ministry of Tourism, India, and also received the prestigious “Ullas Karanth Sanctuary Award” for its successful tiger reintroduction program.
- Flora and Fauna: The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Apart from tigers, it hosts various carnivores like leopards, wild dogs, and hyenas, along with herbivores such as spotted deer, sambar, and nilgai. The reserve also provides a habitat for various bird species and reptiles.
Ken-Betwa River Interlinking Project (KBRIL Project)
- The Ken-Betwa Link Project is the first project under the National Perspective Plan for interlinking of rivers.
- KBRIL is a river-interlinking project that aims to transfer surplus water from the Ken river in Madhya Pradesh to Betwa in Uttar Pradesh to irrigate the drought-prone Bundelkhand region. According to the Jal Shakti Ministry, the project will be of immense benefit to the water-starved region, especially the districts of Panna, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Sagar, Damoh, Datia, Vidisha, Shivpuri and Raisen of Madhya Pradesh, and Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi and Lalitpur of Uttar Pradesh.
- Both Ken and Betwa are the tributaries of the Yamuna.
- The Ken-Betwa Link Canal will be 221 km long, including a 2-km long tunnel.
- A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) called Ken-Betwa Link Project Authority (KBLPA) has been set up to implement the project.
- In fact, the Centre has set in motion the process of creation of National Interlinking of Rivers Authority (NIRA), an independent autonomous body for planning, investigation, financing and implementation of the interlinking of river (ILR) projects in the country.
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