Chhattisgarh Successfully Revives Blackbuck Population

The blackbuck, once extinct locally in Chhattisgarh for nearly 50 years, has been successfully reintroduced. Since 2018, the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary has seen a remarkable comeback of this endangered antelope. The state government’s focused conservation efforts have restored the blackbuck population, with plans to expand the model to other sanctuaries.

Background of Blackbuck Extinction

Blackbucks were once common across India, including Chhattisgarh’s grasslands. By the 1970s, habitat loss, poaching, and human encroachment led to their local extinction in the state. The loss was linked to forest fragmentation and development activities that destroyed open grassland habitats essential for the species.

Initiation of the Reintroduction Programme

In 2018, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department launched a reintroduction plan at Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary. The plan involved translocating 77 blackbucks from zoos in New Delhi and Bilaspur. Initially, animals were kept in enclosures for acclimatisation before being released into the wild. This cautious step ensured adaptation and survival.

Conservation Measures and Challenges

The first two years faced difficulties, including a pneumonia outbreak that caused some deaths. To counter this, the department improved enclosure conditions by adding sand layers, enhancing drainage, and appointing veterinary support. A dedicated conservation team was formed to manage habitat, nutrition, and health monitoring.

Habitat Management and Protection

Efforts focused on restoring grassland quality by removing invasive weeds and promoting native grasses like Rampur grass. Surveillance was strengthened with watchtowers, camera traps, and regular patrolling to prevent poaching. These steps ensured a safer environment for the blackbucks to thrive.

Current Status and Future Plans

Today, Barnawapara hosts around 190 blackbucks, with 100 released into the wild and others in enclosures awaiting release. The success has encouraged plans to replicate the programme in other sanctuaries such as Gomardha Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its suitable open grassland terrain and landscape.