Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary

Context

A WWF-India study, conducted with the Rajasthan Forest Department, highlights Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary’s role in tiger recovery and wildlife conservation.

About Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Location and Area: Located in Karauli district, Rajasthan; covers about 674 sq. km and was established in 1983.
2. Ecological Significance: Forms the northern extension and buffer zone of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, connecting it with the Chambal region.
3. Terrain: Features rugged hills, deep gorges called khos, and dry deciduous forests. Bound by the Banas River (west) and Chambal River (southeast).
4. Flora and Fauna: Major trees include dhok (Anogeissus pendula), khair, and tendu. Wildlife includes Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian grey wolves, striped hyenas, nilgai, chinkara, sambar, chital, and over 200 bird species.
5. Community Conservation: Kulhadi Bandh Panchayats are local village committees that enforce a ban on carrying axes (kulhadi) into forests to prevent tree cutting.
6. Cultural Importance: The Kaila Devi Temple within the sanctuary is a major regional pilgrimage site.

Significance for Conservation

1. Tiger Recovery: Provides crucial habitat for tigers dispersing from Ranthambore, supporting long-term population recovery.
2. Wildlife Connectivity: Acts as an essential wildlife corridor, enabling animal movement between habitats to promote genetic diversity and species survival.
3. Community Participation: Kulhadi Bandh Panchayats demonstrate successful community-led conservation by strengthening forest protection through local grassroots action.

FAQs

Q1. Where is Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary located?

Ans. It is located in Karauli district, Rajasthan.

Q2. Which tiger reserve is associated with Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary?

Ans. It forms the northern extension and buffer zone of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, supporting wildlife movement across the region.

Q3. Which rivers are associated with the sanctuary?

Ans. The Banas River lies along its western boundary, while the Chambal River is located to its southeast.

Q4. What are kulhadi bandh panchayats?

Ans. These are community-based forest protection committees that discourage the use of axes in forests to prevent tree cutting and protect forest resources.