Nestled in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, Namdapha National Park spans over 1,985 square kilometers, making it the fourth-largest national park in India. Established in 1983, this park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, encompassing over 1,000 plant species and approximately 1,400 animal species. Its diverse ecosystems range from tropical evergreen forests to alpine meadows, providing habitats for a multitude of flora and fauna
Recent Wildlife Sightings: A Beacon of Hope
Elephant Sighting After 12 Years
In a significant development, an adult male elephant was spotted in Namdapha National Park on January 13, 2025, marking the first such sighting in over a decade. Captured by a camera trap in the Kathan region, this event underscores the park’s role as a crucial corridor for elephant migration between Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar .
Tiger Activity Near Human Settlements
In August 2024, evidence of tiger movement was confirmed near Songking-I village in the Miao circle. Authorities issued advisories urging villagers to avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk and to secure livestock, emphasizing the importance of coexistence and safety .
Conservation Milestones
Designation as an Eco-Sensitive Zone
In October 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change declared Namdapha National Park and Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary as Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ). This designation aims to provide focused conservation efforts, ensuring environmental sustainability and the protection of endangered wildlife and rare flora .
Community Engagement: 7th Butterfly Meet and Nature Camp
The park hosted the 7th Butterfly Meet and Nature Camp in October 2024 at Deban, involving students and local communities in activities like bird watching, butterfly identification, and forest meditation. Such initiatives foster awareness and encourage community participation in conservation efforts .
Ongoing Challenges
Deforestation and Illegal Logging
Despite conservation efforts, Namdapha faces threats from rampant logging activities. In March 2025, the forest department sealed several wood-based industries in Changlang district after detecting illegal timber operations within the park. Authorities have intensified monitoring and initiated legal actions against offenders to curb this menace.
Encroachment and Habitat Loss
The construction of the Miao-Vijaynagar road has inadvertently facilitated human encroachment into the park. Unauthorized settlements and agricultural activities have been reported, leading to habitat degradation. Park authorities have conducted eviction drives and are working towards resettlement dialogues with recognized villages to mitigate this issue .
Namdapha National Park stands as a testament to India’s rich natural heritage, showcasing both remarkable conservation successes and pressing environmental challenges. The recent wildlife sightings highlight the park’s ecological significance, while ongoing threats underscore the need for sustained conservation efforts. Engaging local communities, enforcing environmental regulations, and promoting awareness are pivotal in ensuring the preservation of this Eastern Himalayan jewel for future generations.
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