Madhya Pradesh Declares New Wildlife Sanctuary Named After Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

The Madhya Pradesh government has declared a new wildlife sanctuary in Sagar district, covering an area of 258.64 square kilometers. The sanctuary, named Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Abhyaran, was officially announced ahead of the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, which will be observed on April 14. This new sanctuary aims to enhance wildlife conservation efforts, promote eco-tourism, and generate employment opportunities for local communities.

Key Highlights of the Announcement

Location and Area

• The Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Abhyaran sanctuary spans an area of 258.64 square kilometers in the Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh.
• The sanctuary will cover forest areas in the North Sagar Forest Division, including parts of Banda and Shahgarh tehsils.

Purpose of the Sanctuary

• The sanctuary’s creation is aimed at bolstering conservation efforts in the region, ensuring the protection of flora and fauna.
• It is designed to enhance the ecosystem by providing a protected environment for wildlife and facilitating the preservation of the region’s biodiversity.
• The sanctuary will also act as a tool to boost tourism and provide employment opportunities for the locals, which could help in the socio-economic development of the area.

Announced Ahead of Ambedkar Jayanti

• The formal notification for the sanctuary was issued just days before the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, widely celebrated on April 14 every year.
• The naming of the sanctuary after Ambedkar, a prominent social reformer, adds a layer of significance, acknowledging his contributions to the country while promoting environmental conservation.

Context of Madhya Pradesh’s Rich Biodiversity

• The new sanctuary increases the number of wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh to 25, with the state already known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife conservation efforts.
• Madhya Pradesh is also recognized as the “Tiger State of India”, with several renowned national parks and wildlife reserves such as Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Satpura, and Panna Tiger Reserves.

Environmentalists’ Response

• Wildlife experts and environmentalists have praised the establishment of the new sanctuary, describing it as a progressive step in aligning environmental conservation with social reform.
• The sanctuary will contribute significantly to preserving native species and sustaining eco-tourism in the region.