UPSC Prelims 2020 Question:

With reference to India's Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct?

1. It is spread over two districts. 
2. There is no human habitation inside the Park. 
3. It is one of the natural habitats of Great Indian Bustard.
   
   

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Explanation:

• The Desert National Park is located in the state of Rajasthan. Its eastern boundary is defined by the Aravalli hills, while the western boundary is defined by the fertile Indus plains. The Great Rann of Kutch forms a sharp southern boundary, whereas the sub-Himalayan plains form its northern limits.
  
  
• It covers an area of 3162 km² of which 1900 km² is in Jaisalmer district and remaining 1262 km² is in Barmer district of Rajasthan State. So, statement 1 is correct.
  
  
• Human population within the Desert National Park is low (4-5 persons per km²). There are 73 villages and also settlements or Dhanis existing within the Park. So, statement 2 is not correct.
  
  
• The area falls in the extreme hot and arid region of very low rainfall zone (<100mm) of the country. It is a home to Great Indian Bustard (locally called Godawan) along with more than 100 species of birds. So, statement 3 is correct.
  
  

Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.

Subject: Environment | Protected Areas