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Sariska’s Critical Tiger Habitat
Over 50 mines may benefit as Sariska’s Critical Tiger Habitat to be redrawn
Context: The Rajasthan government has proposed a rationalisation plan to redraw the Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) boundary of the Sariska Tiger Reserve.
More on News:
- If accepted, the new CTH boundary will exclude 48.39 sq km of degraded, hilly terrain and add 90.91 sq km of quality tiger habitat from the buffer zone.
- This move may legalise over 50 marble and dolomite mines that were shut down following a Supreme Court order in May 2023 for being within 1 km of the CTH.
About Sariska Tiger Reserve
- Location & Size: Sariska National Park is a famous tiger reserve in Rajasthan, surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, covering over 800 square kilometres.
- Renowned for its Royal Bengal Tigers, the park offers a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and biodiversity.
What is the History of Sariska National Park?
- Sariska’s legacy is rooted in royalty. It once served as the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Alwar, a tradition that lasted until the mid-20th century.
- In 1955, the area was declared a natural reserve, and by 1979, it was designated a national park under Project Tiger—a major step in India’s conservation journey.
- Since then, Sariska has transformed from a royal playground into a sanctuary for endangered species and a model of ecological revival.
What Kind of Flora and Fauna Can Be Found in Sariska Tiger Reserve?
- The park’s landscape is diverse, featuring rocky terrain, scrub thorn forests, semi-deciduous woodlands, grasses, and hilly cliffs. Trees such as Dhok, Tendu, and Khair thrive here.
- Key wildlife includes the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger, along with Chital, Leopard, Sambhar, Nilgai, Four-Horned Antelope, Rhesus Macaque, Langur, and Wild Boar.
- Among the birds, it is home to species such as Peacocks, Sand Grouse, Golden-backed Woodpeckers, Crested Serpent Eagles and Harbour’s Quail.
