Correct Option
Kanha National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is a prominent protected area recognized for the successful conservation of the hard-ground Barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii branderi), a distinct subspecies of the Indian swamp deer. This particular subspecies is exclusively graminivorous (grass-eating) and is adapted to thrive in hard ground habitats, differentiating it from other swamp deer subspecies found in marshy areas of Assam and Uttar Pradesh. The park's dedicated conservation efforts have been pivotal in the revival and sustenance of its population.
Incorrect Options
- Manas National Park (Assam) is known for its rich biodiversity, including species like the Golden langur and Bengal florican. It is not primarily associated with the conservation of the hard-ground Barasingha.
- Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) is a significant protected area in South India, primarily known for its populations of Asian elephants, tigers, and other diverse fauna. It is not a habitat for swamp deer.
- Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajasthan) is a grassland ecosystem known for the conservation of Blackbuck and various migratory bird species. It does not host the hard-ground Barasingha.