Context
Haryana has developed its first constellation garden at the Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary located in the Seonsar forest region of Pehowa as part of initiatives aimed at promoting ecological conservation and nature-based tourism.
About Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary
- Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Seonsar Forest, is located in the Kaithal and Kurukshetra districts of Haryana and spreads over about 4,452.85 hectares.
- The sanctuary is associated with the mythical Saraswati River and holds ecological as well as cultural significance.
- Archaeological remains from the Kushan and Gupta periods discovered in the region suggest long-standing human habitation.
- A 400-year-old Mughal-era well – constructed with lakhauri bricks is also situated within the sanctuary.
- The vegetation mainly consists of tropical deciduous forests with species such as Kikar, Neem, Shisham, and Peepal.
- The sanctuary supports wildlife including Nilgai, wild boar, spotted deer, and the rare hog deer.
- It is also known for rich avian diversity, hosting more than 250 species of resident and migratory birds during the winter season.
- The sanctuary contributes significantly to biodiversity conservation in the semi-arid ecosystem of Haryana.
