Barnawapara sanctuary emerges as beacon of blackbuck revival

The Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh has emerged as a striking example of successful wildlife conservation, with the population of endangered Blackbuck rising to over 200 after nearly five decades of local extinction.Spread across 245 square kilometres in Balodabazar-Bhatapara district, the sanctuary now hosts herds of blackbucks roaming freely across its grasslands—marking a remarkable ecological turnaround. The species had disappeared from the region by the 1970s due to habitat loss and encroachment.
The revival gained national attention after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the conservation success in his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat. “There is good news from central India. Blackbucks are now seen again in Chhattisgarh… This marks the return of our lost heritage,” he said.Reacting to the recognition, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai termed it a matter of pride, stating that the acknowledgment strengthens the state’s identity and boosts morale, particularly among those involved in conservation efforts. He added that the initiative is emerging as a model for other states.

According to forest department officials, the turnaround began in 2018 following approval by the State Wildlife Board for a reintroduction programme. A total of 77 blackbucks were translocated to Barnawapara, including animals from Kanan Pendari Zoological Garden in Bilaspur and the National Zoological Park.Initially housed in a specially designed 4-hectare enclosure, the animals were provided intensive care, including monitored nutrition, habitat management, and veterinary supervision. Early setbacks, including the loss of some animals to pneumonia, led to improved measures such as better drainage systems, sand layering for firm ground, and dedicated veterinary care.

Over time, the population stabilised and began to grow steadily. By 2020, the species had successfully acclimatised, and phased releases into the wild were carried out between 2022 and 2023. Today, the Rampur grasslands within the sanctuary serve as a thriving natural habitat.Officials confirmed that this marks India’s first successful blackbuck rewilding initiative, setting a benchmark in species restoration. Encouraged by the results, plans are underway to expand the programme, including the release of around 40 blackbucks in Gomarda Wildlife Sanctuary during the monsoon season. Proposals are also being considered to introduce the species in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, subject to necessary approvals.
Meanwhile, senior Congress leader and former chief minister Bhupesh Baghel took a swipe at PM Modi over his praise for blackbuck conservation in the state, questioning his stance by referring to actor Salman Khan. "When there is talk about blackbuck, PM Modi is seen flying kites with Salman Khan, who had hunted the animal. The question is whether the prime minister stands with conservationists or with hunters," Baghel stated.The resurgence of blackbucks in Barnawapara stands as a testament to sustained conservation efforts, scientific planning, and ecological commitment—offering renewed hope for wildlife restoration across India.

(Asstt.Editor)