Part of: Rajasthan Gk set 4

Which national park in Rajasthan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, supports a population of 375 species of birds, numerous mammals and reptiles?

Category: Rajasthan Gk

Hint: Consider the national park known for its bird sanctuary and recognized by UNESCO.

Correct Answer: A) Keoladeo National Park.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Keoladeo National Park, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a renowned national park located in Rajasthan, India. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 due to its significant ecological importance and biodiversity. The park is particularly famous for its bird population, which includes over 375 species of birds. This makes it one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the world, attracting ornithologists and birdwatchers from around the globe.

The park's rich biodiversity extends beyond birds to include numerous mammals and reptiles. The wetland ecosystem of Keoladeo National Park supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a critical site for conservation efforts. The park's unique ecosystem is a result of the annual flooding of the Arvari and Gambhir rivers, which creates a mosaic of wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands that provide diverse habitats for different species.

Keoladeo National Park is managed by the Rajasthan Forest Department and is a protected area under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The park's conservation efforts have been successful in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting the diverse wildlife population. The park is also an important site for research and education, providing opportunities for students and researchers to study the unique ecosystem and its inhabitants.

Other national parks in Rajasthan, such as Ranthambore National Park and Madhav National Park, are also significant for their wildlife, but they do not match the specific criteria of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and having a population of 375 species of birds. Ranthambore National Park is known for its tiger population, while Madhav National Park is located in Madhya Pradesh and is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Chambal National Park, also known as National Chambal Sanctuary, is located in Madhya Pradesh and is known for its gharial and Gangetic dolphin populations, but it does not match the criteria specified in the question.

Therefore, Keoladeo National Park is the correct answer as it is the only national park in Rajasthan that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and supports a population of 375 species of birds, along with numerous mammals and reptiles.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Keoladeo National Park, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its diverse bird population, with over 375 species recorded. It also supports a variety of mammals and reptiles, making it a significant biodiversity hotspot in Rajasthan.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Madhav National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site and does not have the same level of bird diversity as Keoladeo National Park. It is known for its wildlife, but it does not match the criteria specified in the question.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Ranthambore National Park is known for its tiger population and is a significant wildlife reserve in Rajasthan. However, it is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site and does not have the same level of bird diversity as Keoladeo National Park.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Chambal National Park, also known as National Chambal Sanctuary, is located in Madhya Pradesh and is known for its gharial and Gangetic dolphin populations. It is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site and does not match the criteria specified in the question.

Mnemonic: K for Keoladeo, known for its bird diversity.

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