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Places in News: Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
Context: In a landmark shift, Madhya Pradesh has ended the practice of keeping wild elephants in captivity, following a directive from the Madhya Pradesh High Court. This decision marks a turning point for Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (BTR), embracing a more ethical and ecologically sound approach to elephant management.
About Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve:
- Name Meaning: “Bandhavgarh” means “Brother’s Fort“
- Mythological Reference: Believed that Lord Rama gifted the fort to his brother Laxmana
- Location: Umaria district, Madhya Pradesh
- Established: 1968; declared a Tiger Reserve in 1993
- Terrain: Surrounded by the Vindhya hills, comprising 32 rolling hills, grasslands, meadows, and mixed deciduous forests with bamboo and sal (Saal) vegetation.
- The region lies geographically between the Mahanadi River in the west and the Son River in the east, with the Johila River playing a vital role in sustaining its local ecology.
- Known For: Highest density of Bengal tigers in India, rich biodiversity, and ancient Bandhavgarh Fort
- Fauna: Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and elephants (migratory from Chhattisgarh)
