Environment and Ecology
2020
National Parks
Biodiversity
Wildlife Sanctuaries

With reference to India's Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct?

  1. It is spread over two districts.
  2. There is no human habitation inside the Park.
  3. It is one of the natural habitats of Great Indian Bustard. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

D.1, 2 and 3
C.1 and 3 only
A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only

Correct Answer: Option C

The Desert National Park in Rajasthan is located near Jaisalmer and Barmer. It covers a total area of 3162 km², with 1900 km² in Jaisalmer district and 1262 km² in Barmer district. Therefore, Statement 1 is correct.

Contrary to the statement, the Thar Desert, where the park is located, is densely populated. While the population density within the Desert National Park is lower (4-5 persons/km²), there are 73 villages and settlements (Dhanis) inside the park. These communities are an integral part of the ecosystem. Therefore, Statement 2 is not correct.

The Desert National Park (DNP) is a crucial site for the survival of the Great Indian Bustard, as well as other endemic flora and fauna. It also provides habitat for endangered species like the Oriental White-backed vulture, Long-billed vulture, Stoliczka's Bushchat, and Green Munia. Therefore, Statement 3 is correct.

Hence, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.