KISHTWAR HIGH ALTITUDE NATIONAL PARK (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: A team of four scientists from the University of Kashmir, Srinagar and the National Development Foundation, Jammu have captured four snow leopards (Panthera uncia) on camera in Kishtwar High Altitude National Park.

Kishtwar High Altitude National Park

• About: It is situated in the Kishtwar district of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Establishment: Declared as a Kishtwar High Altitude National Park in 1980, it was primarily established to safeguard the dwindling population of Snow Leopards.
• Ecological Significance: Serving as a vital ecological corridor, the park harbors a diverse array of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species.
• Vegetation: The tract is situated on the high altitudes i.e., sub-alpine and alpine zone.

o The altitude range of 2300 m to 6000m is observed in this tract.

• Flora: Fir, Himalayan Yew, Deodar, Blue Pine, and Spruce.

o Alpine regions feature extensive alpine scrub and meadows, enhancing the park's natural beauty.

• Fauna: Brown bears, Himalayan musk deer, Hangul, Ibex, Wild boar, Indian muntjac, Serow Capricornis, Himalayan Tahr, and Bharal.