Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has approved the establishment of two new wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh to boost wildlife conservation. The decision was taken during the 28th meeting of the State Wildlife Board at Samatava Bhawan, CM House, on Thursday.
The Omkareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary will be developed over 614.07 square km of forest land near Dewas and Khandwa districts. Similarly, the Jahangarh Wildlife Sanctuary will be set up in Sheopur district, covering 6.328 square km.
A wildlife rescue centre-cum-zoo is also planned in Naulakhi, Ujjain district, and another one is proposed in Jabalpur. The CM reviewed the progress of these projects and directed officials to speed up the work.
To enhance biodiversity, efforts will be made to bring rhinos from Kaziranga National Park in Assam and giraffes from South Africa. The CM also emphasized the conservation of all types of wildlife, including terrestrial, aquatic, and avian species.
In the latest vulture census, Madhya Pradesh recorded 12,981 vultures, showing a 19% increase compared to previous years. The state currently has 12 National Parks, 22 Wildlife Sanctuaries, and 3 Biosphere Reserves.