Government of Kerala
Wildlife sanctuaries are designated havens for India’s diverse species and ecosystems. Legally protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, they protect habitats, manage populations, and combat threats. Each sanctuary is zoned for specific purposes: core areas untouched, buffer zones with controlled activities, and tourism zones for responsible exploration. These sanctuaries not only safeguard endangered species but also maintain biodiversity, preserve ecosystems, channelling their invaluable services and educate communities.
From the snow-capped heights of the Himalayas to the scorching plains of the Thar Desert, India is home to over 573 sanctuaries, all of which are brimming with diverse flora and fauna. With its 18 sanctuaries, Kerala, a state renowned for its beautiful landscapes and nestled in the thick embrace of the Western Ghats, is an important player in conservation. Responsible tourism in these sanctuaries, like Kerala’s Periyar with its elephants and tigers, generates revenue and raises awareness.
Legislative Framework
The legislative definition of a wildlife sanctuary can be found in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which is the primary legislation in India for the protection of wildlife. According to Section 2(23) of the Act, a wildlife sanctuary is defined as:
“an area declared, whether under sec. [26(A1)] or sec 38, or deemed, under sub section (3) of Sec. 66 to be declared, as a wildlife sanctuary.”
Section 26(A1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, further elaborates on the declaration of wildlife sanctuaries by the State Government. It states:
“The State Government may, by notification, declare its intention to constitute any area other than an area comprised within any reserve forest or the territorial waters as a sanctuary if it considers that such area is of adequate ecological, faunal, floral, geo morphological, natural or zoological significance, for the purpose of protecting, propagating or developing wildlife or its environment.”
Section 38 of the Act deals with the powers of the Chief Wildlife Warden in managing wildlife sanctuaries.
In simple terms, a wildlife sanctuary is an area of land that is legally protected and managed to conserve and protect wildlife, flora, and fauna. It is a designated area where hunting, shooting, trapping, and other human activities are prohibited, except under special circumstances.
Responsibilities Enshrined in Law:
The act outlines specific roles and responsibilities for managing WLSs, as specified in the following sections:
● Habitat Protection (Section 26A): Ensuring the preservation and improvement of the habitat within the sanctuary..
● Species Management (Section 33, 33A): Monitoring wildlife populations, undertaking research, and implementing conservation measures for threatened species.
● Threat Mitigation (Section 27, 29) : Combating activities like poaching, illegal collection of plants and animals, and damage to habitat.
● Community Engagement (Section38): Educating local communities about the significance of conservation and fostering their involvement in protecting the sanctuary.
Zoned Management:
Each sanctuary adheres to a meticulous management plan, dividing its area into distinct zones:
● Core Zone : This undisturbed heartland prohibits human interference, safeguarding sensitive species.
● Buffer Zone: Controlled human activities like tribal settlements and sustainable resource utilization occur here.
● Tourism Zone: Responsible tourism activities like guided tours and nature trails are conducted here which is within the buffer zone itself and raise awareness and generate revenue.
India’s Sanctuary Network:
India has an extensive network of 573 wildlife sanctuaries spanning 123,762.56 sq km as of November 2023, distributed among its varied terrain. This represents 3.76% of the country’s geographical area, highlighting the significant commitment to conservation.
Looking ahead, 218 additional sanctuaries are proposed across India, potentially adding another 16,829 sq km to the protected area network. This expansion underscores the nation’s continued efforts to safeguard its rich biodiversity for future generations.
Kerala’s Sanctuary Gems:
Kerala, famed for its lush Forests mostly in the lap of Western Ghats, contributes its share with 18 sanctuaries, covering 2156.21 sq km, or 5.55% of its own landmass. These sanctuaries serve as vital havens for iconic species like tigers, elephants, and numerous birdlife
The iconic Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, with its majestic elephants and serene landscapes, is just one gem. Wayanad, nestled in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, offers breathtaking vistas and a kaleidoscope of wildlife. Beyond these renowned sanctuaries, 16 others contribute to Kerala’s conservation efforts, protecting endangered species and preserving ecological treasures. From the Silent Valley National Park’s rare lion-tailed macaques to the mangrove haven of Ashtamudi, Kerala’s sanctuaries offer a glimpse into the state’s rich biodiversity.
Kerala’s Wildlife Sanctuaries: Jewels of Biodiversity and Conservation
Kerala’s network of 18 wildlife sanctuaries transcends their role as havens for diverse flora and fauna. They serve as vital cogs in the state’s ecological machinery, contributing significantly to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem preservation, and endangered species protection.
Maintaining Biodiversity:
Kerala’s sanctuaries act as gene pools for a vast array of species. For instance, the Choolannur Peafowl Sanctuary safeguards the threatened Grey Junglefowl (Gallus sonneratii), while Kurinjimala Sanctuary protects the endangered NilgiriTahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) and this unique habitat nurtures the rare Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) flower, known for its spectacular once-in-12-year bloom, alongside various endemic flora and fauna. These sanctuaries ensure the survival of these species by providing secure breeding grounds and maintaining genetic diversity, crucial for adaptability and resilience in a changing environment.
Preserving Ecosystems:
From the lush rainforests of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to the coastal mangroves of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, each sanctuary represents a unique ecosystem. These protected areas act as ecological buffers, regulating water flow, preventing soil erosion, and maintaining natural air and water quality. For example, the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary plays a vital role in regulating the flow of the Periyar River, sustaining downstream communities and agriculture.
Protecting Endangered Species: Kerala’s sanctuaries offer critical refuge for numerous threatened species. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary provides vital habitat for the endangered Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), while the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary safeguards vulnerable bird species like the Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis). These sanctuaries implement conservation measures like habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, and community engagement programs, contributing to the recovery of these species and ensuring their continued existence.
Beyond these examples, each of Kerala’s sanctuaries, from the high-altitude grasslands of Periyar to the sacred groves of Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and ensuring the survival of unique species. By protecting these sanctuaries, we ensure not only the well-being of wildlife but also the health and sustainability of our own environment.