Explanation: Manipur, a state located in the northeastern part of India, is known for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. However, when it comes to national parks, Manipur has only one, which is Keibul Lamjao National Park. This national park is located in the Bishnupur district and is a unique ecosystem due to its floating biomass, known as "phumdis." The phumdis are essentially floating mats of vegetation that form over the years and provide a habitat for various species of flora and fauna.
Keibul Lamjao National Park is particularly famous for being the last natural habitat of the Manipur brow-antlered deer, also known as the Sangai deer. This deer is an endangered species and is considered a symbol of Manipur. The park was established in 1977 to protect this unique species and its habitat. The park's uniqueness lies in its floating biomass, which is a rare phenomenon and makes it the only floating national park in the world.
It is important to note that while Manipur has only one national park, the state is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas. These include the Intanki National Park, which is not in Manipur but in the neighboring state of Nagaland, and various wildlife sanctuaries such as the Loktak Lake Wildlife Sanctuary and the Pongyang Laishram Wildlife Sanctuary. These protected areas play a crucial role in the conservation of the state's biodiversity.
The misconception that Manipur has more than one national park might arise from the presence of these numerous wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas. Students should be aware that while these areas are important for conservation, they are not classified as national parks. National parks are designated areas that are protected by the government and have specific criteria for their establishment and management.
In summary, Manipur has one national park, Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is a unique and important site for wildlife conservation, particularly for the endangered Sangai deer. Understanding the distinction between national parks and other protected areas is crucial for comprehending the conservation efforts in Manipur.