UPSC Prelims 2020 Question:

Which one of the following protected areas is well known for the conservation of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer (Barasingha) that thrives well on hard ground and is exclusively graminivorous?

Explanation:

• Indian swamp deer (Barasingha or Rucervus duvaucelii) is one of the largest species of deer found in India. It is the state animal of Madhya Pradesh.
  
  
• In 1967, the numbers of swamp deer decreased due to rampant hunting, habitat loss and diseases. 
  
  
• It was brought back from the verge of extinction with the help of a successful breeding programme and conservation practices at the Kanha National Park.
  
  
• The Park was acknowledged globally for its efforts in saving the Barasingha species from near extinction. It is also the first tiger reserve in India to officially introduce a mascot, "Bhoorsingh the Barasingha".
  
  

Therefore, option (1) is the correct answer.

Relevance: Kanha Wildlife Sanctuary has witnessed a revival of near extinct Barasingha species.

Subject: Environment | Protected Areas