Papikonda National Park (Andhra Pradesh) | UPSC & IAS Prep | Pragya IAS AI Prep

Описание: Papikonda National Park: A Description
Papikonda National Park is a protected area located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India. Declared a national park in 2008 (it was a wildlife sanctuary since 1978), it covers an area of over 1,012 sq. km, primarily in the Alluri Sitharama Raju and Eluru districts. The park is bisected by the Godavari River, which flows through the Papi Hills, creating a stunning landscape of steep slopes, valleys, and riverine ecosystems.
Key Features and Significance:
Biodiversity Hotspot: Papikonda National Park is a major conservation area in the Eastern Ghats. It is recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) by BirdLife International. The park's ecosystem is a mix of tropical moist deciduous and dry deciduous forests.
Flora: The park is known for its rich floral diversity, with a high number of plant species, including endemic and threatened ones. Common species include teak, rosewood, and various types of bamboo.
Fauna: It is a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including mammals like the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, Indian gaur, sloth bear, and various deer species (sambar, spotted deer). It also has a rich population of reptiles, including the King Cobra and Indian python, and over 200 species of birds. The park is also known for a unique dwarf goat breed called "kanchu mekha."
Geographical and Ecological Role: The Godavari River plays a vital role in the park's ecosystem, and the park itself is crucial for high precipitation and the origin of several small streams that feed the river. The terrain is rugged and hilly, with elevations ranging from 20 to 850 meters.
Cultural Significance: The Papi Hills are considered sacred by local tribal communities, such as the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) Konda Reddy tribe, who inhabit the area.
Relevance for Sarkari Exams (Government Exams):
Papikonda National Park is a recurring topic in various government examinations, particularly those related to general knowledge, geography, environment, and current affairs. Key points to remember for these exams include:
Location: Andhra Pradesh (specifically, the Alluri Sitharama Raju and Eluru districts).
Year of Establishment: Became a national park in 2008, but was a wildlife sanctuary since 1978.
Major River: The Godavari River flows through it.
Designations: It is an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).
Key Species: Knowledge of its major flora and fauna, including endangered species and unique local breeds like the "kanchu mekha" goat, is often tested.
Other Relevant Facts: Mention of the Papi Hills and the presence of the Konda Reddy tribe are also important details.