Similipal: Odisha’s Newest and Largest National Park is Also Its Biggest Tiger Reserve - UPSC Notes
Odisha government has officially granted national park status to Similipal making it the state’s newest and largest national park, covering 845.70sqkm
Similipal: Odisha’s Newest and Largest National Park is Also Its Biggest Tiger Reserve - UPSC Notes
Similipal Declared Odisha’s Largest National Park: Key Highlights for UPSC In a major conservation move, the Odisha government has officially granted national park status to Similipal , making it the state’s newest and largest national park , covering 845.70 sq km in Mayurbhanj district .
This designation, finalised after a 60-day statutory process , makes Similipal the second national park in Odisha , after Bhitarkanika . Why It Matters Similipal National Park becomes the 107th National Park of India. It forms the core area of the Similipal Tiger Reserve (2,750 sq km), which was established in 1973 under Project Tiger . Similipal has been recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1994 . Key Features of Similipal National Park 1. Unique Biodiversity 55 mammal species , including: Bengal tigers Asian elephants Leopards Gaurs (Indian bison) Chausinghas (four-horned antelope) 361 bird species , like: Grey Hornbill Crested Serpent Eagle 62 reptiles (including King Cobras, Mugger Crocodiles) 21 amphibian species …
