Source: NIE
Subject: Mapping
Context: Telangana’s Mulugu forest officials are set to launch safari services for the first time inside the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, creating new eco-tourism opportunities.
About Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary:
- What It Is?
- Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Telangana’s oldest protected areas, known for its rich Deccan Plateau ecosystem, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural–ecological heritage.
- Located In: Mulugu District, Telangana
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- Situated along the Godavari River
- Lies close to the Telangana–Maharashtra–Chhattisgarh tri-border region
- History:
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- Established: 30 January 1952 (one of the earliest sanctuaries in the state)
- Notified: 7 July 1999 under wildlife protection rules
- The region has evidence of ancient human dwellings, stone-age remains, and sites like Rakshasa Gullu.
- Hosts Asia’s largest tribal congregation, Medaram Jatara, celebrated every two years at Tadvai within the sanctuary.
- Key Features:
- Biodiversity:
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- Fauna: Tigers, leopards, gaurs, sambar, chital, blackbuck, nilgai, wolves, pythons, antelopes.
- Flora: Dominated by Teak (Tectona grandis) and mixed dry deciduous vegetation.
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- Landscape & Ecology:
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- Located in Deccan dry deciduous forest zone.
- Dense forest patches, riverine tracks, and undulating terrain support high wildlife diversity.
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- Significance:
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- Ecological Importance: A critical habitat linking forested regions across three states, supporting predator–prey balance.
- Cultural Heritage: Home to the Medaram Jatara, enriching tribal identity and traditional conservation practices.
- Tourism Potential: Safari services and accommodation facilities can generate livelihoods for local communities and enhance conservation awareness.
