Context: The Sharavathi Lion Tailed Macaque Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka has recently been in the news due to protests and tensions following the arrest of local farmers for alleged encroachments. The issue has sparked concerns over human-wildlife conflict, land rights, and forest conservation policies.
Where is it Located?
- Located in Shivamogga (Shimoga) district, Karnataka
- Lies within the Sharavathi river basin and the Western Ghats
- Nearest Towns: Sagar and Jog Falls
- Falls under the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site
Map Tip for Prelims:
Locate it along the Sharavathi river — between Jog Falls and Sharavathi Valley.
Why is it Important?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Key Species | Lion-tailed Macaque (Endangered – IUCN Red List) |
| Ecosystem | Tropical evergreen & semi-evergreen forests |
| World Heritage Status | Part of Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot (UNESCO) |
| Other Fauna | Malabar Giant Squirrel, King Cobra, Elephants |
| Flora | Dipterocarpus, Calophyllum, Myristica swamp |
Current Issues
- Farmer Arrests: Recent protests after local farmers were arrested for alleged encroachments inside sanctuary buffer zones
- Livelihood Concerns: Locals claim traditional land usage rights being ignored
- Forest Rights Act 2006: Being cited by tribal and local communities to seek protection against eviction
- Conservation Dilemma: Balancing the needs of endangered species and human livelihoods
UPSC Prelims Angle
Questions often come in the format of “Identify the state/location of the sanctuary” or “Match the species with the habitat”.
Example Practice MCQ:
Q. With reference to the Sharavathi Lion Tailed Macaque Wildlife Sanctuary, consider the following statements:
- It is located in the Western Ghats of Kerala.
- It is primarily meant to conserve the habitat of the endangered Lion-Tailed Macaque.
- It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅Answer: B
Summary for Revision
- Sanctuary: Sharavathi Lion Tailed Macaque WLS
- State: Karnataka
- Species focus: Lion-tailed macaque (IUCN – Endangered)
- Issues: Human-wildlife conflict, Forest Rights Act, farmer arrests
- Conservation tag: Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site