Recently, the Indian bison population in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary has seen a remarkable increase, with 189 new individuals recorded in just one year, bringing the total to 848. This surge highlights the effectiveness of conservation efforts and the importance of protecting biodiversity in the region.
This topic is relevant for UPSC Prelims under Current Affairs, focusing on wildlife conservation. In Mains, it pertains to GS Paper III, which covers environmental conservation and biodiversity. A UPSC aspirant should study this topic to understand the ecological significance and conservation strategies for endangered species like the Indian bison.
The Indian bison, also known as Gaur, is the largest species among wild cattle belonging to the Bovidae family. Indigenous to South and Southeast Asia, these animals inhabit evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, and grasslands, especially in hilly terrains below 1,800 meters altitude. The recent increase in their population at Debrigarh Sanctuary underscores their ecological importance and the need for continued conservation efforts.
In Prelims, questions may focus on facts regarding the Indian bison's habitat, conservation status, and specific locations like Debrigarh Sanctuary. In Mains, candidates may be asked to analyze the causes of population changes, implications for biodiversity, and evaluate conservation policies.
The increase in the Indian bison population is a positive indicator of successful conservation strategies, reflecting the ecological health of their habitat. However, ongoing threats such as habitat destruction and disease transmission from domestic cattle highlight the need for integrated wildlife management approaches. The balance of ecosystems is crucial for sustaining biodiversity and ensuring the survival of species like the Gaur.
Moving forward, it is essential to adopt evidence-based policies that focus on habitat restoration and disease control to enhance the resilience of the Indian bison population. Sustainable practices in land management and community engagement can further aid in achieving long-term conservation goals, ensuring the ecological balance necessary for biodiversity in India.
Q1. What is the current population of Indian bison in Debrigarh Sanctuary?
Answer: The Indian bison population in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary has increased to 848 individuals following a rise of 189 within a year.
Q2. What are the main threats to Indian bison?
Answer: Major threats to Indian bison include habitat loss and susceptibility to diseases like rinderpest and foot-and-mouth disease from domestic cattle.
Q3. Why is the Indian bison important ecologically?
Answer: Indian bison play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, influencing vegetation dynamics, and serving as prey for top predators like tigers.
Q4. Where is Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary located?
Answer: Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Bargarh district of Odisha, near the Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River.
Q5. What is the conservation status of the Indian bison?
Answer: The Indian bison is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Question 1: What is the current population of Indian bison in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary?
A) 600
B) 848
C) 700
D) 900
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which act protects the Indian bison in India?
A) Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
B) Forest Conservation Act
C) Environment Protection Act
D) Biological Diversity Act
Correct Answer: A
Question 3: What is the IUCN Red List status of the Indian bison?
A) Endangered
B) Vulnerable
C) Least Concern
D) Critically Endangered
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is a primary habitat of the Indian bison?
A) Grasslands
B) Deserts
C) Evergreen forests
D) Urban areas
Correct Answer: C
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