In News:

Recently, the Himachal Pradesh Government notified the Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve, making it India’s largest conservation reserve, spanning 1,585 sq km. It is located in the Spiti Valley of Lahaul-Spiti district, a high-altitude, cold desert ecosystem.

Legal Status:

• Declared under Section 36A(1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
• It is Himachal Pradesh’s fifth conservation reserve after Darlaghat, Naina Devi, Potter Hill, and Shilli

Geographical Significance:

• Boundaries:
  • North: Union Territory of Ladakh
  • East: Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary (up to Malang Nala and LungarLungpa)
  • South: KabjimaNala
  • West: Chandratal Wildlife Sanctuary
• Encompasses the confluence of Unam River and CharapNala
• Serves as the catchment area of Charap Nallah and a critical wildlife corridor linking Kibber and Chandratal sanctuaries

Ecological Importance:

• Identified as a high-density snow leopard habitat
• Other key species:
  • Tibetan wolf, bharal (blue sheep), Himalayan ibex
  • Kiang (Tibetan wild ass), Tibetan argali
• Rich in avian biodiversity: Rose Finch, Tibetan Raven, Yellow-billed Chough

Management and Community Involvement:

• To be managed by a Conservation Reserve Management Committee including local Panchayat representatives
• Emphasizes community-based conservation, balancing ecological goals with local livelihoods
• Promotes eco-tourism, wildlife research, and nature-based livelihood opportunities