State PCS - Chhattisgarh (CGPSC)

• 21 Oct 2025

Revival of Blackbuck in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary

Why in News? 

Chhattisgarh’s Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary has successfully revived the blackbuck population nearly five decades after its local extinction, representing a significant milestone in India’s wildlife conservation efforts. 

Key Points 

• Reintroduction Initiative: The Chhattisgarh Forest Department initiated a five-year blackbuck reintroduction programme (2021–2026) aimed at restoring the species to its natural habitat. 
• Translocation Effort: A total of 77 blackbucks were introduced — 50 from the National Zoological Park (Delhi) and 27 from Kanan Pendari Zoological Garden (Bilaspur). 
• Population Recovery: From zero population in the 1970s, Barnawapara now hosts around 190 blackbucks, showcasing the success of the programme. 
• Future Expansion: Encouraged by success, the forest department plans to extend the model to other sanctuaries, including Gomardha Wildlife Sanctuary (Raigarh), known for its ideal grassland ecosystem. 

About Blackbucks 

• About: The Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), or Indian Antelope, is a diurnal ( day-active) animal found in India (mainly in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha) and Nepal,.  
  • It is regarded as the symbol of India’s grassland ecosystem. 
• Key Blackbuck Habitats: Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary (Gujarat), Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu), and Tal Chhapar Sanctuary (Rajasthan). 
• Protection Status: 
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I 
  • IUCN Status: Least Concern 
  • CITES: Appendix III  
• Threats: Habitat loss and fragmentation, deforestation, natural disasters, and illegal hunting pose major risks to the species.

About Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary 

• Location & Name: It is situated in the northeastern corner of Raipur district, Chhattisgarh, and is named after the Bar and Nawapara forest villages at its heart. 
• Terrain & Geography: Features undulating terrain with numerous low and high hillocks. Water sources include tributaries of the Mahanadi River, with River Balamdehi forming the western boundary and Jonk River the north-eastern boundary. 
• Forest Type: The sanctuary has well-stocked forests, classified as teak, sal, and mixed forests. 
• Wildlife: Commonly sighted animals include Indian bison (Gaur), Cheetal, Sambhar, Neelgai, and Wild boar.