SSB Lecturette Notes: National Parks of India – Protecting Nature, Preserving Life

Fresh SSB batches start around the 1st & 15th of every month.

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Muir

Introduction

• National Parks are protected areas established by governments to conserve biodiversity, wildlife, and natural heritage.
• They are crucial for environmental protection, scientific research, ecotourism, and public education.
• In India, they are governed under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which aims to prevent exploitation and preserve ecosystems.

Key Features of National Parks

• No human activity like grazing, hunting, or tree cutting is allowed.
• Focus is on conservation of flora, fauna, and natural landscapes.
• Managed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) along with respective state forest departments.
• India has 106 National Parks as of 2024, covering around 1.33% of the total geographical area.

Famous National Parks in India

• Jim Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand) – India’s first national park, known for Bengal tigers.
• Kaziranga (Assam) – Famous for the one-horned rhinoceros.
• Sundarbans (West Bengal) – Home to Royal Bengal Tigers and the world’s largest mangrove forest.
• Gir National Park (Gujarat) – The only home to Asiatic lions.
• Ranthambore (Rajasthan) – Popular for tiger sightings and historical ruins.
• Silent Valley (Kerala) – Rich biodiversity and undisturbed tropical rainforest.

Importance of National Parks

• Biodiversity Conservation – Protects endangered species and fragile ecosystems.
• Climate Regulation – Forest cover aids in carbon sequestration and rainfall regulation.
• Ecotourism – Generates employment and boosts the local economy.
• Scientific Research – Acts as natural laboratories for ecological and wildlife studies.
• Education & Awareness – Increases understanding of nature among the general public.

Recent Developments

• New National Parks & Upgrades – Areas like Buxa and Dibang Valley under consideration for enhanced protection.
• Eco-sensitive Zones – Buffer areas declared around many parks to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
• Project Cheetah – Reintroduction of cheetahs in Kuno National Park (Madhya Pradesh) from Namibia & South Africa.
• Digital Monitoring – Use of drones, camera traps, and AI-based tracking for better wildlife management.

Challenges

• Human-Wildlife Conflict – Expanding human settlements near parks lead to animal encounters.
• Poaching & Illegal Trade – Threatens endangered species like tigers, rhinos, and elephants.
• Climate Change – Alters habitat patterns and endangers species.
• Encroachment & Infrastructure Projects – Roads, dams, and mining projects threaten park integrity.
• Lack of Funding & Staff – Many parks are understaffed and underfunded.

Way Forward

• Strengthen community-based conservation models.
• Invest in eco-tourism infrastructure with local employment.
• Strict implementation of Wildlife Protection Act and Forest Rights Act.
• Integrate technology (GIS, drones) for monitoring and patrolling.
• Promote environmental education in schools and public platforms.

Conclusion

National Parks are living treasures that protect our natural heritage and ensure ecological balance. In an age of rapid urbanization and climate threats, preserving these green sanctuaries is not optional—it is essential for the well-being of current and future generations.