Keibul Lamjao National Park is a very special park in Manipur, India. It is the only floating national park in the world! This park is home to the endangered Sangai deer, also known as the dancing deer of Manipur. The park floats on a lake called Loktak Lake, using thick grass mats called phumdis.
This topic is very important for exams like SSC, Banking, RRB NTPC, UPSC, and other State-level exams under Indian Geography. Learning about this unique park helps you score better in GK and current affairs questions.
Basic Information at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Keibul Lamjao National Park |
| Local Name | Keibul Lamjao Leipakki Lampak (in Meitei language) |
| Location | Bishnupur district, Manipur, Northeast India |
| Area | 40 sq. km (15.4 sq. mi) |
| Established As a Sanctuary | 1966 |
| Declared National Park | 1977 |
| UNESCO Status | Tentative list as Keibul Lamjao Conservation Area (KLCA) |
| Associated Water Bodies | Part of Loktak Lake, also includes buffer areas of Pumlen Pat (43 sq. km) and Loktak Lake buffer (140 sq. km) |
Location and Significance
- *Location: Situated in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, northeastern India.
- *Unique Feature: It’s the only floating national park in the world, resting on the Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India.
What Makes This Park Float? 🌊
🌿 The Magic of Phumdis
- Phumdis are floating masses of decomposed plant material, soil, and organic matter.
- These form thick, floating platforms on which animals and plants live.
- They float on Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India.
📌 Fun Fact: Keibul Lamjao is the only national park in the world built entirely on floating Phumdis!
Home of the Graceful Sangai Deer 🦌
The Dancing Deer of Manipur
- Common Name: Sangai or Manipur Brow-Antlered Deer
- Scientific Name: Cervus eldi eldi (also known as Rucervus eldii eldii)
- Status: Endangered
- Special Trait: Its walk looks like it’s dancing — hence called the Dancing Deer!
- Symbolism: It is the State Animal of Manipur and a symbol of ecological balance.
Flora and Fauna 🌿
Fora 🌱
- The park boasts over 185 plant species.
- Common plants include reed grasses, aquatic herbs, and bamboo.
Fauna 🐾
- Mammals: Besides the Sangai, animals like hog deer, wild boar, and civets inhabit he park.
- Birds: A haven for birdwatchers, the park hosts species like waterfowl, teals, and hornbills.
- AquaticLife: The lake supports various fish species, vital for local livelihoods.
Environmental Importance 🌍
- Biodiversity Hotspot: The park’s unique ecosystem supports diverse species.
- Conservation Efforts: Established in 1977 to protect the Sangai and its habitat.
- Challenges: Threats include habitat degradation and changes in water levels affecting Phumdis.
History and Conservation Timeline 📜
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1966 | Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary to protect the Sangai deer |
| 1977 | Officially notified as a National Park |
| Recent | Listed in the UNESCO Tentative List under “Keibul Lamjao Conservation Area” |
Quick Revision Points
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Bishnupur, Manipur |
| Lake | Part of Loktak Lake |
| Floating Feature | Made of Phumdis |
| Famous Animal | Sangai (Dancing Deer) |
| UNESCO Status | Tentative List (KLCA) |
| Established | Sanctuary (1966), National Park (1977) |
| Area | 40 sq. km |
Exam Cracker Tips 📝
- Remember: The Sangai is also known as the dancing deer.
- Sangai = State Animal of Manipur
- Located in Loktak Lake, Northeast India.
- Watch for keywords like Phumdis, UNESCO, and 1977
- Note: Keibul Lamjao is the only floating national park in the world.
- Highlight: It’s located in the Bishnupur district of Manipur.
Conclusion
Keibul Lamjao National Park is not just a natural wonder but also a symbol of India’s rich biodiversity. Understanding its unique features will not only enhance your general knowledge but also give you an edge in competitive exams.
Keep exploring and keep learning! 🌱📚
