Vol. 10, Issue 9, Part D (2024)

Abstract
Indravati National Park, located in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh, stands as one of Central India's most pristine and ecologically significant protected areas. Encompassing dense forests, riverine ecosystems, and rich biodiversity, the park is a vital sanctuary for numerous endangered and endemic species, including the elusive wild water buffalo (Bubalus arnee), Indian bison (Bos gaurus), and various species of deer, birds, and reptiles. Named after the Indravati River that flows through its terrain, the park is a part of the larger Dandakaranya forests and forms a critical component of the Central Indian landscape. This abstract highlights the park’s ecological importance, its role in wildlife conservation, and its potential for eco-tourism. It also underscores ongoing challenges such as poaching, habitat degradation, and regional security issues that hinder effective conservation efforts. Indravati National Park is not only a biodiversity hotspot but also a symbol of nature’s splendor in Central India, necessitating integrated strategies for its sustainable management and preservation.