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Context
A recent faunal survey in Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Kerala, has recorded 15 new species of birds, butterflies, and odonates. This addition enhances the reserve’s rich biodiversity and ecological significance.
About Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Location and Area
- Located in Palakkad and Thrissur districts of Kerala.
- Lies between Anamalai Hills and Nelliampathy Hills in the Western Ghats.
- Covers 643.66 sq. km, including Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary (declared in 1973 and expanded in 1984).
- Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2010 under the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
Flora and Fauna
Flora
- The reserve consists of evergreen, moist deciduous, and dry deciduous forests along with grasslands.
- Home to rare and endangered medicinal plants like:
- Coscinium fenestratum
- Utleria salicifolia (IUCN Red-listed species).
Fauna
- Mammals: Lion-tailed macaques, Malabar giant squirrel, flying squirrel, leopards, elephants, Nilgiri langurs, and smooth-coated otters.
- Amphibians & Fish:
- Tomopterna parambikulamana (endemic frog species).
- Garra surendranathanii (endemic sucker fish).
- Tribes: Indigenous communities like Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar, and Mala Malasar inhabit six colonies within the reserve.
Conservation Significance
- Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-Cluster.
- Part of Project Tiger, ensuring tiger conservation under NTCA.
- Contributes to the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats, which is among the eight "hottest hotspots" of biodiversity in the world.
Syria’s World Heritage Sites: Restoration Efforts Post-War
Context
After years of conflict, Syrian heritage sites like Palmyra and Crac des Chevaliers are undergoing restoration. These efforts aim to revive tourism and cultural preservation, crucial for Syria’s economic and historical revival.
Major Syrian World Heritage Sites in Focus
Palmyra
- Location: Homs Governorate, Syria.
- Features: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for 2,000-year-old Roman ruins, temples, and colonnaded streets.
- Historical Significance:
- Served as a key Silk Road trading hub.
- Was the capital of the Palmyrene Empire under Queen Zenobia (3rd century CE).
Crac des Chevaliers
- Location: Near Al-Husn, Homs Governorate, Syria.
- Features: One of the best-preserved Crusader castles, built in the 12th century by the Knights Hospitaller.
- Historical Importance:
- Played a strategic role during the Crusades.
- Controlled key trade and military routes in the region.
Restoration and Challenges
- UNESCO-led initiatives are working on preserving these sites.
- Challenges include:
- Damage from war and vandalism.
- Lack of funding and political instability.
- Need for international collaboration to restore cultural heritage.
MCQs for UPSC CSE
1. Which of the following statements about Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is correct?
a) It is located in Tamil Nadu.
b) It is part of the Eastern Ghats.
c) It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2010.
d) It does not contain any tribal settlements.
Answer: c) It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2010.
2. Which of the following species is endemic to Parambikulam Tiger Reserve?
a) Tomopterna parambikulamana
b) Ganges River Dolphin
c) Black-necked Crane
d) Snow Leopard
Answer: a) Tomopterna parambikulamana
3. Which international body recognizes Parambikulam Tiger Reserve as a World Heritage Site?
a) IUCN
b) UNESCO
c) WHO
d) FAO
Answer: b) UNESCO
4. Which of the following statements about Palmyra is correct?
a) It was an important center of the Ottoman Empire.
b) It is located in Syria’s Homs Governorate.
c) It was primarily built by the Mughal Empire.
d) It served as a major military base during the Cold War.
Answer: b) It is located in Syria’s Homs Governorate.
5. Crac des Chevaliers is associated with which historical event?
a) The French Revolution
b) The Crusades
c) The Industrial Revolution
d) The Napoleonic Wars
Answer: b) The Crusades
UPSC Mains Question
Q. The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve plays a crucial role in biodiversity conservation and tribal welfare. Discuss the ecological significance of the reserve and the challenges in its conservation. (250 words)
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