Dachigam National Park?
VerifiedAnswer: J&K
Explanation:
Dachigam National Park is located in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), making it one of the most scenic and ecologically important protected areas in northern India. Situated about 22 kilometers from Srinagar, the park covers an area of approximately 141 square kilometers and is nestled in the beautiful Kashmir Valley.
The park was established in 1981 and is famous for being the last refuge of the endangered Hangul deer, also known as the Kashmir stag. This magnificent deer species is found nowhere else in India and has become a symbol of wildlife conservation efforts in the region. The park's name "Dachigam" literally means "ten villages" in the local Kashmiri language, referring to the ten villages that were relocated when the area was declared a protected zone.
Dachigam National Park features diverse landscapes ranging from grasslands and scrublands at lower altitudes to dense forests of oak, pine, and fir trees at higher elevations. The park is divided into two main areas: the Lower Dachigam (5,500 to 9,000 feet) and the Upper Dachigam (9,000 to 14,000 feet). This variation in altitude creates different ecological zones that support a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Besides the Hangul deer, the park is home to several other important wildlife species including black bears, leopards, serows, jungle cats, and yellow-throated martens. The park also supports over 145 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Some notable bird species include the golden oriole, paradise flycatcher, and various species of eagles and hawks.
For students preparing for competitive exams, it's important to remember that Dachigam National Park represents J&K's commitment to wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection. The park faces ongoing conservation challenges due to its location in a politically sensitive region, but continues to serve as a crucial habitat for endangered species and a testament to the natural beauty of the Kashmir Valley.
