Madhya Pradesh, often referred to as the "Heart of India," is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and rich natural heritage. The state is home to some of the most celebrated national parks in the country, showcasing diverse ecosystems, rich flora and fauna, and conservation success stories. Here is a detailed account of the major national parks in Madhya Pradesh.
1. Kanha National Park
Location: Mandla and Balaghat districts
Area: 940 sq. km
Established: 1955
Famous For: Bengal Tigers, Barasingha (Swamp Deer)
Highlights:
Known as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book.
Kanha is a part of the Kanha Tiger Reserve, one of India's most significant tiger conservation zones under Project Tiger.
The parks success in conserving the Barasingha earned it global recognition.
The landscape is a mix of sal and bamboo forests, grasslands, and streams, making it a haven for diverse wildlife.
Flora and Fauna:
Flora: Sal trees, Bamboo, and mixed deciduous forests.
Fauna: Royal Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Indian Wild Dogs, and Indian Gaur.
2. Bandhavgarh National Park
Location: Umaria district
Area: 450 sq. km
Established: 1968
Famous For: Highest tiger density in India
Highlights:
Known for its high probability of tiger sightings.
The park is named after the Bandhavgarh Fort, an ancient structure perched atop a hill in the park.
Archaeological ruins and caves with ancient inscriptions enhance the parks allure.
Flora and Fauna:
Flora: Sal forests dominate, along with grasslands and bamboo thickets.
Fauna: Bengal Tigers, White Tigers (historical significance), Sloth Bears, and over 250 bird species.
3. Pench National Park
Location: Seoni and Chhindwara districts
Area: 758 sq. km (core: 292 sq. km)
Established: 1975
Famous For: Inspiration for The Jungle Book
Highlights:
The Pench River flows through the park, dividing it into eastern and western halves.
Recognized for its picturesque landscape and high tiger density.
Offers a thriving ecosystem with numerous mammal, bird, and reptile species.
Flora and Fauna:
Flora: Teak, Mahua, and Crocodile Bark trees.
Fauna: Tigers, Leopards, Wild Boars, and Indian Bison (Gaur).
4. Satpura National Park
Location: Hoshangabad (now Narmadapuram) district
Area: 524 sq. km
Established: 1981
Famous For: Unique topography and diverse wildlife
Highlights:
The parks name derives from the Satpura range, which adds to the rugged beauty of the landscape.
It offers a tranquil wildlife experience with jeep safaris, boat rides, and walking safaris.
Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (part of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve).
Flora and Fauna:
Flora: Sal, Teak, and Bamboo forests.
Fauna: Indian Giant Squirrels, Malabar Whistling Thrush, and Crocodiles.
5. Panna National Park
Location: Panna and Chhatarpur districts
Area: 542 sq. km
Established: 1981
Famous For: Diamond mines and reintroduced tigers
Highlights:
The park faced a severe decline in its tiger population but has seen remarkable recovery due to successful reintroduction efforts under Project Tiger.
The Ken River meandering through the park enhances its scenic beauty.
It is part of the proposed Ken-Betwa River Linking Project.
Flora and Fauna:
Flora: Dry deciduous forests with teak and bamboo.
Fauna: Reintroduced Tigers, Indian Wolves, and Gharials.
6. Sanjay National Park
Location: Sidhi and Singrauli districts
Area: 466 sq. km
Established: 1981
Famous For: Pristine forests and migratory birds
Highlights:
Part of the larger Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve.
Relatively less explored, offering an offbeat experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Known for its rich birdlife and rare animal species.
Flora and Fauna:
Flora: Sal, Mahua, and Tendu forests.
Fauna: Tigers, Leopards, and Indian Flying Foxes.
7. Van Vihar National Park
Location: Bhopal
Area: 4.45 sq. km
Established: 1983
Famous For: Urban National Park
Highlights:
Unlike other national parks, Van Vihar is a unique blend of a zoo and a national park.
Located near the Upper Lake in Bhopal, it provides a sanctuary for rescued animals.
Offers an easily accessible space for wildlife awareness and education.
Flora and Fauna:
Flora: Grassy plains and artificially maintained greenery.
Fauna: Asiatic Lions, Tigers, and numerous bird species.
Conservation Efforts in Madhya Pradesh
Project Tiger: Several parks like Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Panna are part of this flagship program aimed at tiger conservation.
Biosphere Reserves: Satpura National Park is integrated into the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve for holistic ecosystem management.
Eco-tourism: Sustainable tourism practices are promoted to balance wildlife conservation and economic development.
Significance of National Parks in Madhya Pradesh
Biodiversity Hotspot: The parks host diverse flora and fauna, contributing to Indias ecological richness.
Tourism Hub: Wildlife tourism is a major contributor to the states economy.
Cultural Heritage: Ancient forts, temples, and archaeological remains found in some parks link nature with history.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Challenges:
Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increased interaction between humans and animals leads to conflicts near park boundaries.
Deforestation and Mining: Illegal activities threaten the natural habitats.
Climate Change: Altered rainfall patterns and rising temperatures impact ecosystems.
Recommendations:
Strengthening wildlife corridors to ensure gene flow between populations.
Promoting community participation in conservation.
Enhancing anti-poaching measures and habitat restoration programs.
MPPCS Notes brings Prelims and Mains programs for MPPCS Prelims and MPPCS Mains Exam preparation. Various Programs initiated by MPPCS Notes are as follows:-- MPPCS Mains 2025 Tests and Notes Program
- MPPCS Prelims Exam 2025- Test Series and Notes Program
- MPPCS Prelims and Mains 2025 Tests Series and Notes Program
- MPPCS Detailed Complete Prelims Notes 2025