Explanations:The state of Odisha, located in eastern India, is known for its rich biodiversity and numerous protected areas. These protected areas are crucial for the conservation of wildlife and natural habitats. The protected areas in Odisha are categorized into different types, including National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
National Parks are areas that are strictly protected for the conservation of wildlife and natural ecosystems. They are managed by the government and are designated for scientific research, education, and recreation. Wildlife Sanctuaries, on the other hand, are areas where wildlife is protected, but they may allow certain human activities such as grazing and collection of minor forest produce under strict regulations.
The total number of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Odisha is 23. This includes both the National Parks and the Wildlife Sanctuaries that are designated for the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity. The number of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries can vary over time due to changes in conservation policies and the creation of new protected areas.
It is important to note that the total number of protected areas in Odisha is higher than just the National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. This includes other types of protected areas such as Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves, which are also important for biodiversity conservation but are not included in the count of 23.
Understanding the number and types of protected areas in Odisha is essential for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and State PSC, where questions on geography and environmental conservation are common. It is also important for anyone interested in the conservation efforts and biodiversity of the region.