Publications
Climate Change And Biodiversity Loss In Manas National Park
Climate change is significantly accelerating biodiversity loss in Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northeastern India. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and increased flooding are altering habitat structures, particularly grasslands crucial for herbivores, leading to species migration, ecological imbalance, and heightened vulnerability of endangered fauna. These changes also exacerbate human-wildlife conflicts and promote the spread of alien species. The study, using secondary data sources such as government reports and academic articles, highlights the urgent need for climate-resilient conservation strategies, including habitat restoration, systematic monitoring, community-based resource management, strengthened policy frameworks, and transboundary cooperation to ensure long-term ecological sustainability.
Forecasting climate-resilient conservation futures for the White-bellied Heron ( Ardea insignis ) in Bhutan using coupled model intercomparison project phase 6 climate scenario
Bhutan's largest population of the critically endangered White-bellied Heron (Ardea insignis), one of the world's rarest birds, faces significant climate-induced habitat shifts. Projections indicate a potential expansion of suitable habitat from 8,219 km² under baseline conditions to 13,784 km² by 2100, but with increased fragmentation and suitability loss in unprotected areas like Monggar and Pemagatshel. Protected zones such as Royal Manas National Park remain resilient, while others may become unsuitable due to climate change. This study, Bhutan's first nationwide climate-informed habitat model, combines 361 verified occurrence records (2001–2024) with 24 environmental predictors using a weighted ensemble modeling framework—integrating generalized linear models, generalized additive models, and random forest algorithms—to project future distributions under Shared Socioeconomic Pathway 3 scenarios. It highlights protection gaps, advocates for adaptive conservation strategies, and underscores the need for connectivity measures amid dynamic anthropogenic pressures.
Sustainable Conservation Livelihood activity: A case from the Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan.
A five-year evaluation of Bhutan's Jersey calf-sharing scheme in the Royal Manas National Park revealed significant conservation and livelihood benefits. The initiative, which distributed seed cows to 56 households with the condition to share female offspring, led to a 43.6% increase in Jersey cows, reduced forest grazing, lower livestock losses to carnivores, and improved dairy income. This approach also fostered equitable benefit sharing, strengthened community engagement, and promoted positive conservation attitudes. The study highlights the potential of such schemes as sustainable tools for balancing livelihood needs with wildlife conservation, particularly in multiple-use zones where human-wildlife interactions pose challenges.
Conservation Challenges in the Eastern Buffer Zone of Manas National Park: A Case Study of Dihira Proposed Reserve Forest
A study on the Dihira Proposed Reserve Forest, part of Manas National Park's Eastern Buffer Zone, reveals significant progress in mitigating human-elephant conflicts and preserving elephant corridors through targeted conservation strategies. By integrating Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping with community-reported data and participatory approaches, researchers identified critical conflict zones and implemented sustainable livelihood initiatives, such as dairy and piggery farming, which increased household incomes by 15% to 30%. The installation of solar lights in high-risk areas reduced nighttime elephant incursions. This research demonstrates a successful model for balancing conservation with local economic needs, fostering coexistence between wildlife and communities.
Women Entrepreneurship in National Park: Challenges, Motivations, and Growth Potential with special reference to Manas National Park, India.
Despite being crucial contributors to revenue generation, women entrepreneurship remains underdeveloped in rural areas of Manas National Park, a key wildlife tourism destination. This study highlights significant barriers preventing women from establishing and running enterprises in the region, while also identifying motivations for those interested in venturing into entrepreneurship. The research employs a dual approach: analyzing existing women entrepreneurs' challenges and examining factors that inspire aspiring female business owners. Findings underscore the untapped potential of women-led businesses in supporting sustainable tourism growth within protected areas like Manas National Park.
Assessing the Impact of Domestic Cattle Influx on Grassland Habitat Using Remote Sensing and Soil Physical Parameters: A Study in Manas National Park
A significant increase in domestic cattle influx within Manas National Park has been linked to substantial soil compaction and degradation of its unique grassland habitat, threatening endangered species dependent on this ecosystem. The study, spanning 21 years (1999–2020), used remote sensing—specifically pixel-based classification of satellite imagery—to track changes in land cover, revealing alarming shifts toward woodland and mosaic habitats due to overgrazing, ecological succession, and human encroachment. Physical soil parameters like bulk density, water content, and porosity were analyzed to assess their impact on vegetation composition. Ground truth data and land-cover definitions enhanced the accuracy of these findings. The research highlights the exponential growth of certain land cover types, underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts to mitigate threats from climate change, human activities, and ecological processes.
Carnivore Chronicles: Co-occurrence and habitat use in the tropical forest of Manas National Park, North-East India
Research in Manas National Park, India, reveals that most carnivore species exhibit random co-occurrence patterns with limited spatial overlap, suggesting minimal antagonism among them despite shared habitats. The study, using camera-trap data from 37 species over 11,388 trap nights, found that large carnivores like tigers and leopards show distinct habitat preferences influenced by prey availability, elevation, and human presence. Tigers favor areas with abundant large-medium prey but avoid forest roads, while leopards prefer habitats with medium and small prey. Small and meso-carnivores, including clouded leopards and dholes, thrive in dense vegetation and regions rich in small prey. The findings underscore the importance of protecting diverse habitats, mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, and maintaining healthy prey populations for the long-term conservation of carnivores in tropical forests.
Conservation of Biodiversity as a Roadmap for Sustainable Tourism Development in Manas National Park, Assam
A comprehensive roadmap for sustainable ecotourism in Manas National Park, Assam, highlights the critical balance between biodiversity conservation and local community engagement. The study reveals that strategic integration of ecotourism can significantly enhance conservation efforts while improving livelihoods for nearby communities. By synthesizing existing data, it identifies key challenges and opportunities, offering actionable recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders. These include eco-friendly tourism strategies that mitigate negative impacts on wildlife and ecosystems, alongside mechanisms to increase public awareness and community involvement in conservation initiatives. The findings underscore the need for regulated ecotourism practices to preserve the park's natural integrity while fostering sustainable development.
Current conservation status of Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis in Manas National Park, Assam, India
A recent survey of the Critically Endangered Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) in Manas National Park, Assam, India, reveals a significant population increase since 2009, with 50 males and 17 females recorded. This contrasts with earlier estimates of just 24 males in 2009, suggesting long-term recovery. However, the study highlights severe threats to their grassland habitats, including uncontrolled natural succession, livestock grazing, invasive plant growth, and non-timber forest product (NTFP) collection by local communities. These disturbances also impact other grassland-dependent species such as the Pygmy Hog, Hispid Hare, and Indian Rhino, emphasizing the urgent need for habitat protection and restoration to ensure the survival of this vulnerable bird and its ecosystem.
Diversity and Microhabitat Association of Spider Fauna in Manas National Park, Assam, India
Manas National Park (MNP) in Assam, India, harbors a rich diversity of spider fauna, with 73 species recorded across 47 genera and 16 families. Family Araneidae was the most abundant, representing 28.77% of the total species. The study, conducted from September 2018 to August 2021, used semi-quantitative sampling in woodland, grassland, and riparian habitats, revealing that woodland areas hosted the highest diversity (54.17%). Orb-weaver spiders dominated (45.21%), with leaf surfaces being the most common microhabitat (42.47%). These findings underscore MNP's significance as a conservation priority area due to its high spider diversity, which serves as an indicator of ecosystem health.
Examining the Influence of National Park Sustainability and National Park Satisfaction on National Park Behavioural Intentions: A Case Study of Manas National Park, Assam
A study on Manas National Park, Assam, reveals that perceived sustainability negatively influences visitors' behavioral intentions, while satisfaction does not significantly impact these intentions. The research used a questionnaire with established scales to assess national park sustainability (NPSus), satisfaction (NPSat), and behavioral intentions (NPBI) among 233 tourists. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis showed that certain factors positively affect both NPSus and NPBI, providing insights for sustainable tourism practices that benefit biodiversity, cultural heritage, and local communities.
Exploring the Socio-economic Dimensions of Rural Tourism and Community-based Conservation: A Case Study of Manas National Park, Assam, India
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary demonstrates the potential for rural tourism to synergize with community-based conservation, delivering both biodiversity protection and socio-economic benefits. This study reveals that active community involvement in conservation initiatives not only preserves the park's rich natural heritage but also drives local development through income generation, employment creation, and infrastructure enhancement. Qualitative analysis highlights how sustainable tourism practices can foster cultural preservation while addressing challenges such as balancing environmental goals with economic growth. The findings underscore the importance of strategic policies that prioritize both ecological sustainability and community welfare, offering valuable insights for global conservation efforts in similar ecosystems.
First Addition to Manas National Park: Extension Potentiality of Manas World Heritage Site in Assam, India
A new study reveals the extension potential of Manas World Heritage Site (WHS) in Assam, India, by assessing the abundance and occupancy of top predators and their prey species in its first addition. The research found a tiger density of 2.29 individuals per 100 sq. km with an occupancy (Psi) of 0.3412, while leopard and dhole had lower occupancies at 0.1647 and 0.1765, respectively. Prey species showed varying relative abundance indices (RAI), with sambar being the most abundant (RAI=21.26). The study suggests that wildlife population recovery, improved enforcement, community engagement, and transboundary cooperation could enhance the extension potential of Manas WHS, maintaining landscape integrity with Bhutan's Royal Manas National Park.
Behaviour and habitat preferences of translocated rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) at Manas National Park, Assam, India
A study on translocated greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) at Manas National Park, Assam, India, found that these animals successfully adapted to their new environment without significant behavioral differences from wild populations. Between 2008 and 2021, 22 rhinos were reintroduced as part of the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 program, with post-release monitoring revealing stable activity patterns, home ranges, and habitat preferences. The park's slightly higher elevation reduced flood risks compared to source sites like Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. By 2022, the population had grown to 50 individuals, including 38 calves born post-reintroduction, demonstrating the effectiveness of well-managed translocation schemes in rhino conservation.
Case Study on Futuristic Approach of Promoting Sustainable Tourism in Manas National Park, Assam
Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique biodiversity and ecological significance, has successfully implemented futuristic approaches to promote sustainable tourism. This case study highlights the park's focus on eco-friendly practices such as waste management, energy conservation, and water resource management, which have minimized the environmental impact of tourism activities while preserving the fragile ecosystem. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining in-depth interviews with local communities and tourists, observations, and document analysis to gather qualitative and quantitative data. This study underscores the importance of community involvement, stakeholder cooperation, and sustainable practices in achieving long-term sustainability in tourism. The innovative strategies adopted by Manas National Park serve as a valuable model for other protected areas seeking to balance conservation objectives with tourism development.
Current Status and Distribution of the Threatened Jerdon's Babbler Chrysomma altirostre in North-Eastern India
Jerdon's Babbler, a critically endangered grassland-dwelling bird endemic to South Asia, is experiencing rapid population decline in north-eastern India due to habitat loss and degradation. Key habitats include Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Dibru-Saikhowa, Kaziranga, and Maguri Beel in Assam, as well as D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh. The species thrives in tall wet savanna grasslands dominated by Arundo donax, Phragmites spp., and Saccharum spp., typically between 50–250 meters altitude, with no recent records from northern West Bengal or Manipur valley. Surveys indicate severe threats from agricultural conversion, high grazing pressure, and annual grass burning, though no precise population estimates were derived. This study synthesizes survey data and literature to highlight the species' precarious status, emphasizing urgent conservation action.
Documentation of Mosquito Repellant Plants from Fringe Villages of Manas National Park, Assam, India
A survey of fringe villages around Manas National Park, Assam, India, identified 24 plant species with mosquito-repellent properties, primarily using leaves and stems. Solanaceae and Lamiaceae were the most prominent families, with Brassica rapa being the most cited plant. Traditional practices involved burning plant parts or applying raw juices to repel mosquitoes. The study highlights the potential of these plants for further scientific exploration of their insecticidal and mosquitocidal activities, bridging traditional ethnobotanical knowledge with modern research.
Further photographic record of Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine Atherurus macrourus Linnaeus, 1758 (Mammalia: Rodentia: Hystricidae) from Manas National Park, Assam, India
A rare photographic record of the Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine (Atherurus macrourus) was captured during a camera-trap survey in Manas National Park, Assam, India. This finding is significant as it contributes to the limited documentation of this lesser-known and declining mammal in southern and southeastern Asia. The study highlights the importance of post-conflict conservation efforts, particularly after nearly two decades (1990–2010) of ethno-political conflict that hindered such initiatives in Manas National Park. The survey, originally conducted to monitor Clouded Leopard populations, provides valuable data for informed conservation strategies and underscores the need for continued research in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Secrets of the clouded leopard: abundance, habitat use and carnivore coexistence in tropical forest of Manas National Park, Assam, India
A study on the clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) in Manas National Park, India, reveals critical insights into its population density and habitat use. Researchers estimated a low population density of 1.73 individuals per 100 km² and a relative abundance index of 0.18 per 100 trap-nights, indicating a vulnerable status. The study found that the availability of small prey species and primary forests significantly influenced clouded leopard habitat selection, emphasizing the conservation importance of these elements. Additionally, the research observed high temporal overlap (> 0.70) with distinct activity peaks among sympatric carnivores but no spatial co-occurrence pattern. This work contributes valuable data to our understanding of the mainland clouded leopard's population and behavioral ecology in Manas National Park.
Spatio-Temporal Changes in the Grass Land Cover of Manas National Park
Significant declines in grassland areas, alongside rising encroachment and shifts in river courses, have been observed in Manas National Park—a UNESCO-listed Eastern Himalayan heritage site—between 1973 and 2022. This study leverages geospatial technology to document land-use changes over nearly five decades, offering a critical baseline for conservation efforts amid historical inaccessibility due to insurgency. The findings underscore the dual threats of natural dynamics and human encroachment on this biodiversity hotspot.
Study of Antioxidant and Larvicidal Properties of Selected Medicinal Plants of Fringe Villages of Manas National Park, Assam, India
A study on medicinal plants from the fringe villages of Manas National Park, Assam, India, reveals that Cinnamomum tamala exhibits strong antioxidant and larvicidal properties, with significant potential as a natural mosquito repellent. The research found that C. tamala had the highest phenolic and flavonoid content (up to 147.15 µg GAE/mg and 28.43 µg QE/mg, respectively) and demonstrated potent antioxidant activity, with an IC50 value as low as 15.05 µg/mL in certain assays. Additionally, it showed strong larvicidal effects against Aedes aegypti larvae, with an LC50 of 3.11 mg/mL, outperforming other tested plants. The findings suggest that C. tamala could serve as a promising alternative to synthetic insecticides, particularly in regions where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent.
Monitoring diversity and abundance of mammals with camera-traps: a case study of Manas National Park, Assam, India
A comprehensive camera-trap study in Manas National Park, Assam, India, revealed the presence of 34 mammalian species across seven orders and 15 families, with nearly half (17) being globally threatened. Conducted over three years (2017–2019) with 11,388 trap nights, the study recorded 22,738 independent mammal encounters, demonstrating robust sampling effort. Despite historical ethnopolitical conflict, the survey detected nearly all expected species, providing a critical baseline for assessing biodiversity recovery and informing conservation strategies in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
New distribution record of Black Softshell Turtle Nilssonia nigricans (Anderson, 1875) from Manas National Park, Assam, India
A significant new distribution record of the Black Softshell Turtle (Nilssonia nigricans) has been documented within Manas National Park, Assam, India. This finding extends the known range of the species, which was previously unrecorded in this protected area. The study provides a detailed description, including maps and an assessment of threats to its population, contributing valuable data for conservation efforts. Researchers employed field surveys and documentation techniques to confirm the presence of this turtle, highlighting its ecological significance within the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Revival of Eastern Swamp Deer Rucervus duvaucelii ranjitsinhi (Groves, 1982) in Manas National Park of Assam, India
A significant recovery of the Eastern Swamp Deer (Rucervus duvaucelii ranjitsinhi) population in Manas National Park, India, has been achieved through targeted conservation efforts. Once nearly exterminated due to political unrest in the late 1980s, the species began reviving after 36 deer were relocated from Kaziranga to Manas between 2014 and 2017. By March 2021, the population had grown to approximately 121 individuals, contributing to the rewilding of the landscape and supporting top predators like tigers. This success underscores the importance of conservation interventions in UNESCO World Heritage Sites for species recovery and ecosystem restoration.
The herpetofauna in Sarpang District, Bhutan
A comprehensive survey of herpetofauna in Sarpang District, Bhutan, reveals the first formal documentation of amphibian and reptile diversity in a region largely enclosed by three protected areas: Royal Manas National Park, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, and Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary. This study addresses a critical gap in Bhutan's herpetological records, which have been fragmented due to reliance on citizen science data or regional reports. The research employs systematic field surveys to catalog species diversity, providing a foundational dataset for conservation efforts in this ecologically significant area. Findings highlight the importance of protected areas in maintaining biodiversity and underscore the need for further systematic studies across Bhutan's underrepresented regions.
Towards a new rhino conservation landscape in Assam for the increasing population of the greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis)
A recent census in Assam reveals a significant increase in the population of greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis), with notable growth also observed in their habitat within protected areas like Kaziranga, Manas, and Orang National Parks. This upward trend is attributed to enhanced anti-poaching measures and improved vigilance, which have drastically reduced poaching incidents. Additionally, the study highlights the economic benefits for local communities living near these parks, as tourism-related activities such as motels, safari vehicles, and souvenir shops have flourished, providing employment opportunities. The increase in tourism has also boosted the livelihoods of residents in cities like Guwahati, Jorhat, and Tezpur. While the study acknowledges the positive developments, it cautions about the need for controlled tourism, particularly in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary during peak seasons.
Utilization pattern of forest resources: Evidence from the fringe villages of Manas National Park, Northeast India
Research reveals that fuelwood is the most critical forest resource utilized by ethnic communities living near Manas National Park, with Bodo people leading in resource consumption. The study identified 110 plant species across 60 families, highlighting herbs and leaves as the primary life forms and plant parts used. Notably, Azadirachta indica exhibited the highest frequency of local use (85.9%), while Dillenia indica showed the highest preference ratio (73.02%). The findings were derived from a mixed-method approach involving structured and semi-structured questionnaires, along with face-to-face interviews conducted among five ethnic groups: Bodo, Assamese, Nepali, Adivashi, and Bengali. This study provides critical insights into the resource utilization patterns of fringe villages, which can inform conservation strategies for UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Eco-Tourism in Assam: Prospects, Challenges and Sustainable Development
Assam, India, holds significant potential for eco-tourism due to its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Manas Wildlife Sanctuary. However, sustainable development faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, ecosystem disruption, and limited community involvement. Recent initiatives, including the Assam Project on Forest and Biodiversity Conservation, aim to address these issues by promoting community-run facilities, hospitality training, and environmentally sensitive tourism. This study highlights that while eco-tourism can contribute to biodiversity conservation and regional development, its success depends on overcoming logistical, ecological, and social barriers.
Temporal interactions and moon illumination effect on mammals in a tropical semievergreen forest of Manas National Park, Assam, India
A high degree of temporal overlap was found among most sympatric carnivores in Manas National Park, India, with distinct activity peaks, while low overlap (<0.50) occurred between different body-sized carnivores. Small carnivores like Prionailurus bengalensis and Viverridae spp. were strictly nocturnal, whereas Martes flavigula and Herpestidae spp. were diurnal. Large carnivores such as Panthera tigris and Panthera pardus exhibited cathemeral activity patterns. The study also revealed that viverrids' activity was negatively correlated with lunar cycles (r = −0.44, p < 0.01), possibly to enhance foraging efficiency or avoid predators. Large prey activity peaked during brighter nights, likely due to better visual detection of predators. Passive camera traps were used to capture 24,865 independent records over 11,294 trap nights, providing insights into the behavioral rhythms of tropical mammals.
Inferring patterns of sympatry among large carnivores in Manas National Park – a prey‐rich habitat influenced by anthropogenic disturbances
Large carnivores in Manas National Park, India, exhibit sympatry through fine-scale spatio-temporal avoidance rather than population-level changes in space-use or diet. Despite high prey densities and anthropogenic influences altering prey behavior, tigers, leopards, and dholes maintain distinct spatial and temporal patterns without significant dietary overlap. The study used photographic capture data, predator scats, and non-parametric circular kernel-density functions to analyze space-use, time-activity patterns, and diet over three sampling years (2014–2017). Findings suggest that predators likely maximize resource acquisition in this prey-rich environment, underscoring the importance of understanding interspecific interactions for effective conservation strategies.
A systematic expert‐based assessment of progress and priorities for conservation of the Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis
A systematic expert-based assessment reveals that while conservation efforts for the Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) have successfully reduced hunting threats, significant challenges remain in addressing predation by dogs and power line impacts. The study identifies priority threats across key sites, including Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaziranga National Park, and Stoung-Chikreang Bengal Florican Conservation Area (BFCA), where conservation achievements are notable but require scaling up. It proposes a framework for collaboration to tackle these threats, emphasizing the critical role of D'Ering Wildlife Sanctuary in India. By replicating good practices from high-performing sites, the study suggests that the extinction risk of the Bengal Florican can be mitigated if priority actions are implemented effectively.
A study on the behavior and colonization of translocated Greater One-horned Rhinos Rhinoceros unicornis (Mammalia: Perissodactyla: Rhinocerotidae) during 90 days from their release at Manas National Park, Assam India
A remarkable 89% of Greater One-horned Rhinos translocated from Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary to Manas National Park exhibited consistent dispersal patterns, moving in the same direction post-release. This study, part of India's Rhino Vision 2020 initiative, used radio tracking and direct observation over 90 days to document their behavioral adaptation and colonization behavior. Notably, rhinos from Pobitora showed greater straying compared to those from Kaziranga, suggesting site-specific influences on dispersal. The findings offer valuable insights for future rhino translocation strategies, aiming to enhance conservation efforts in Manas Wildlife Sanctuary.
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