FIRST MANAGEMENT PLAN OF MATHIKETTAN SHOLA NATIONAL PARK

2009 - 2018

DEPARTMENT OF FORESTS AND WILDLIFE GOVERNMENT OF INDEX Pages PART - I THE PROTECTED AREA: THE EXISTING SITUATION 1-28 CHAPTER - 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE AREA 1-4 1.1 Name, Location, constitution and extent 1 1.2 Approach and access 1 1.3 Statement of significance 2 1.4 Values of the Park 3 CHAPTER - 2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND ATTRIBUTES 5-18 2.1 Boundaries 5 2.2 Geology Rock and Soil 6 2.3 Terrain 7 2.4 Climate 7 2.5 Water sources 10 2.6 Range of wildlife, status, distribution and habitat 12 CHAPTER - 3 HISTORY OF MANAGEMENT AND PRESENT PRACTICES 19-27 3.1 General 19 3.2 Timber operation 19 3.3 Non Wood Forest Collection 20 3.4 Leases 20 3.5 Other programmes and activities 20 3.6 Forest protection 20 3.7 Tourism 23 3.8 Research monitoring and training 24 3.9 Communication 26 3.10 Summary of threats to wildlife 26 CHAPTER - 4 THE PROTECTED AREA AND THE INTERFACE LAND USE 28-29 SITUATION 4.1 The existing situation in the zone of influence 28 4.2 The Development program and conservation issues 28 PART - II PROPOSED MANAGEMENT 30-65 CHAPTER - 5 PLAN OBJECTIVES AND PROBLEMS 31 5.1 Objectives 31 5.2 Problems in achieving objectives & strategies to overcome 31 the problems CHAPTER - 6 STRATEGIES-BOUNDARIES, ZONATION, ZONE PLANS AND 38-52 THEME PLANS 6.1 Boundaries 38 6.2 Zonation 39 6.3 Zone plans 40 6.3.1 Plan for core zone 40 6.3.2 Plan for restoration zone 42 6.3.3 Plan for buffer zone 43 6.3.4 Plan for eco-sensitive and crucial corridor 44 6.4 Theme plans 45 6.4.1 Protection plan 45 6.4.2 Fire protection plan 50 6.4.3 Watershed and water resource management plan 52 CHAPTER - 7 TOURISM, INTERPRETATION AND CONSERVATION EDUCATION 53-54 7.1 Environmental conservation awareness 53 7.2 Nature-based regulated tourism 54 CHAPTER - 8 ECODEVELOPMENT 55-57 CHAPTER - 9 RESEARCH, MONITORING AND TRAINING 58-59 9.1 Research 58 9.2 Monitoring 59 9.3 Training 59 CHAPTER -10 ORGANISATION AND ADMINISTRATION 60-61 10.1 Structure 60 10.2 Responsibilities 60 CHAPTER -11 THE BUDGET 62-65 PART-III APPENDICES 66-86 Annexure -1 Notification No. 12875/F2/2003/F&WLD dated 14.12. 2003 66 Annexure -2 Trees, Shrubs, Herbs of Mathikettan Shola National Park 68 Annexure -3 RET flora of MSNP 71 Annexure -4 Avifauna of MSNP 72 Annexure -5 IUCN/SSC Guideline for reintroduction 73 Annexure -6 List of Control forms 79 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION OF THE AREA

1.1. Name, Location, constitution and extent

Mathikettan Shola National Park (MSNP) is located in the High range of South of Kerala. Mathikettan area is part of the Hill Reserve (CHR) notified in the Government Gazette dated the 24th August 1897, wherein the area was constituted as a Reserve Forest under section 18 of Regulation II of 1868. Subsequently various Government orders/rules were issued for assigning the CHR area for cardamom cultivation as well as the control of the land and trees. The provisions contained in G. O. (MS) 804/58/Rev. dated the 9th August 1958 were being followed for the management of the CHR areas, wherein the control over the tree growth was vested with the Forest Department and control of land vested with Revenue Department. Hence there was a dual control over the CHR areas. Subsequently, vide G. O. (MS) No. 328/2002/RD dated the 17th October 2002, Government transferred 1281.7419 hectares of the said land to the administrative control of Forest Department. Considering the unique nature of the Shola forests in Mathikettan and its importance as an elephant corridor, the State Wildlife Advisory Board recommended to declare the area as a National Park and accordingly the vide Order No. 50/2003/F&WLD dated 10th October 2003 notified the MSNP (MSNP) (notification is given in Annexure 1). The MSNP, having an extent of 1281.7419 ha, falls in village of Taluk in and lies between 90 57¢ to 100 01¢ and 760 14¢ to 760 16¢ E (Fig. 1).

1.2. Approach and access

The National Park is situated at a distance of 160kms and 120kms respectively from and Airports. The nearest Railway station in Kerala is (145kms) and in is (60 km). The nearest towns are (38kms) and (30kms). To reach the headquarters of the Park at Peythotti, one has to traverse a 4km tarred road from Santhampara which is situated on the Munnar- State highway.

1 Fig.1: Location map of MSNP

1.3. Statement of significance

The MSNP is located in the of southern Western Ghats and represents a large number of and unique to montane evergreen forests. The Park represents the unique montane evergreen forest ecosystem. The Park is the abode of several endemic of flora and fauna as well. It is the last remnant of the original forests of the CHR and provides perennial supply of water for meeting the agricultural and drinking water requirements of the majority of people of Shanthanpara and Pooppara. Three streams namely Uchinikuthipuzha, Mathikettan Puzha and Njandar being the tributaries of Panniyar originate from these forests. Though the soil of MSNP is rich with silica, which decreases the water holding capacity, the impenetrable montane forests formation on this ridge of Cardamom Hills make it a true watershed for the rivers which drain this area. Thirty-six species of plants of RET category are found in this area

2 with viable populations out of which 5 species were previously considered as possibly extinct. In addition to these, there are many species of orchids, balsams, strobilanthus, ferns and mushrooms. The Park also has unique features and provides ample academic opportunities for studying the biodiversity of montane vegetation. It can also serve as a field laboratory for activities like conservation education, research and monitoring and participatory management. The Park assumes special significance as a ‘stepping stone’ for any future corridor connectivity between Reserve and Munnar Forest Division.

1.4. Values of the Park

1.4.1. Value related to flora

§ Well-protected representative example of montane evergreen forest system in Western Ghats.

§ Exceptional species diversity.

§ Significant population of locally endemic species.

§ Ideal place for “insitu” germ plasm conservation of rare and threatened species like tree ferns.

§ National Park harbours a large number of Medicinal Plants.

1.4.2. Values related to fauna

§ Exceptional species diversity of birds.

§ Significant population of especially with many endemic species.

§ Provides vital connectivity for movements especially elephants.

1.4.3. Values related to watershed

§ Conservational value associated with watershed for drinking and irrigation to Santhenpara and Pooppara area.

1.4.4. Values related to education and research

§ Research and monitoring values associated with endemism, biodiversity, human- wildlife interaction etc.

3 § Educational value associated with nature education, nature exploration and adventure.

1.4.5. Aesthetic values

§ Potential areas for bird watching, trekking etc.

§ Potential areas for nature interpretation.

§ Livelihood to resource dependent communities through ecotourism.

1.4.6. Cultural Values

§ Ethnic tribal heritage of Muthuvan community.

4 CHAPTER 2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND ATTRIBUTES

2.1. Boundaries

2.1.1. External Boundaries

North: Boundary commences from the point were the interstate boundary between Kerala and Tamil Nadu meets the southern boundary of survey No. 32 Pooppara Village of the resurvey minor circuit and runs west parallel to - Pooppara road, along the southern boundary of survey No. 17, 16, 13, 14, 8 ,22 and hence turning south along the eastern boundary of block 13 and survey numbers 34, 35, 36, 37 and hence along the western boundary of survey No38 to reach a point where the northern most extremely of survey No. 38 meets the Resurvey Minor Circuit.

West: Thence the boundary turns south and follows the Resurvey Minor Circuit along the Eastern boundary of block No. 13 till it meets the Northern boundary of survey No. 65 and turn south along the Eastern boundary of survey No. 65 till it meets the boundary of survey No. 64 on the line democratizing the area handed over after eviction.

South: Thence the boundary turns east along the Northern boundary of survey No. 64, 63 and turns south along the Eastern boundary of survey No. 78, 71, 72, 73, 74, 174, 192, 193, 195, 197 and turn south along the eastern boundary of survey no. 198, 199 and again turns north East along the Northern boundary of survey No. 205, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212 to meet the interstate boundary.

East: Thence the boundary runs north along the interstate boundary till it reaches the starting point.

The external boundaries are already surveyed and 70% of boundary is marked with permanent cairns.

2.1.2. Internal boundaries: Internal boundaries are vague and needs to the verified on the field.

5 2.1.3. Ecological Boundaries

The Eastern boundary of the National Park is contiguous with the forests of Theni Forest Division, Tamil Nadu. The north, west and south are bounded by cardamom plantations of CHR. The elephants from the MSNP reach Anayirangal via the following three routes:

(a) Through Thalakkulam, Thondimala, Sundal and Panthadikkulam (b) Through Thalakkulam and Mulatharakud (c) Through Kallapuzha, Shankarapandimettu, Puthappara, Mulathara and Kozhippennakudy The elephants also move towards south upto Chakkulathimedu and down into the Tamilnadu plains around Tevaram.

2.2. Geology Rock and Soil

The underlying rock formation consists principally of gneiss of a granites nature, very often foliated and composed of quartz, feldspar and biotitic. The soil is deep in general and in ridges and hilltops, the soil is shallow. The soil in forests in lower slopes and valleys are considerably deeper and finer.

Soil sampling and analyses: Surface soil samples (0-20 cm) were collected from upper and lower slopes of Mathikettan shola. The gravel contents were found out. Analyses were carried out for estimation of particle–size separates, soil pH, organic carbon, available N, P, K, Ca and Mg as per standard procedures in ASA (1965) and Jackson (1958). The soil physical and chemical properties are shown in Table 1.

Table.1: Characteristics of the soils from Mathikettan shola forests

San Cla Organic Av. Av. Locatio Silt Soil Av. Av. Ca Av. Mg d y carbon N P n % pH K % % % % % % % ppm Upper 0.02 0.23 67 11 22 4.9 3.30 10 0.044 0.0276 slope 8 1 Lower 0.03 0.24 62 13 25 4.9 4.05 11 0.046 0.0168 slope 7 3 Source: Kerala Forest Research Institute Extension Project Report No. 15.

6 2.2.1. General features of soil

Upper slope: The soils are very dark brown, granular, porous and friable, low in gravel content, rich in organic matter and all nutrients, scattered faunal voids mainly termite channels and chambers, very strongly acid and loam.

Lower slope: The soils are very dark brown, granular, porous and very friable, low in gravel content, rich in organic matter and all nutrients, root mat and disintegrating organic debris, very strongly acid and clay loam.

By the conversion of the sholas for cultivation of cardamom and coffee without taking into consideration of the terrain and drainage, considerable damage has occurred to the ecosystem. The ecosystem, in general, is very fragile and any operation can affect the equilibrium.

2.3. Terrain

The terrain is undulating with hillocks of varying heights. The altitude ranges between 1200-1984 m. The elevation increases from west to east and highest point Madigatta (1982m) is located in the eastern border of the Park adjoining Tamil Nadu. The forest is seen as a continuous patch from 1200m upto 1500m above which it is seen as small patches dispersed among the grasslands. The area is drained by Panniyar river.

2.3.1. Contour

The contour maps of the different shola areas were prepared by KFRI using 1:50,000 SOI toposheets. The digital output was generated using MapInfo software (Figs. 2 & 3).

2.4. Climate

The MSNP lies on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu interstate border. The Park receives rains from both southwest and northeast monsoons. The coldest months are December and January when the minimum temperature inside forests fall up to 9˚C even at lower elevations. The temperature varies with a minimum of 9.5˚C (December) to a maximum of 30˚C (April). There are 4-5 dry months, spanning between December and March.

7 Fig. 2: Contour map of Mathikettan Shola NP and Road network

Fig. 3: Contour map of Mathikettan Shola NP (Based on 1:50,000 SOI. Toposheets)

8 2.4.1. Rainfall pattern and distribution

The area receives southwest and northeast monsoon, the North East being the prominent one. The average annual rainfall ranges between 2000-2700 mm. A decade’s weather data maintained by Indian Cardamom Research Institute lying near to this National Park also indicate that the maximum annual rainfall obtained was 2750 mm during 1998 while the minimum value obtained was 1615 mm during 2008. The annual rainfall details are given in Table 2.

Table.2: Annual Rainfall near MSNP

Year Rain fall (mm) 1995 2212.00 1996 2484.00 1997 2550.00 1998 2750.00 1999 2706.00 2000 1964.00 2001 2184.00 2002 1710.00 2003 1671.00 2004 1834.00 2005 2792.00 2006 2192.82 2007 2676.00 2008 1615.11 Source: Indian Cardamom Research Centre – Mylapara

2.4.2. Temperature, a summary of year round pattern

The Maximum temperature ranges from 27.6˚C to 33˚C and the minimum temperature ranges from 9.5˚C to 16.74˚C. The maximum and minimum temperature is given in Table 3.

Table.3: Details of temperature near MSNP

Temperature (˚C) Year Max Min 1995 27.60 11.07 1996 28.90 09.50 1997 28.60 13.40 1998 29.10 16.74

9 1999 27.04 15.72 2000 28.56 14.01 2001 28.20 15.70 2002 33.61 14.60 2003 28.00 14.48 2004 29.66 14.73 2005 29.22 15.04 2006 29.96 16.75 2007 25.55 15.85 2008 23.62 15.93 Source: Indian Cardamom Research Centre – Mylapara

2.4.3. Humidity During southwest and northwest monsoons the average humidity of the area is maximum and varies from 80% -90%. Humidity is low during summer seasons month February, April varies to 50% - 60%.

2.4.4. Wind speeds Upper elevation of the park experiences heavy wind speed. No authenticated records are available.

2.5. Water sources Many streams are originated from this shola Most of them flows eastwards and ultimately join in Panniyar River. Most of the streams on northern side of the Park dry up in the summer seasons. Others are more or less perennial in nature. Three tributaries of Panniyar namely Uchinikuthipuzha, Mathikettan puzha and Njandar drain the Park. The Park is having 12 nos. of check dams. The name and location of check dams in MSNP is given in Table 4.

Table.4: Details of Check dams in MSNP

Sl.No. Name of locations of Check dam 1 Survey Kal Para 2 Kari Para 3 Manalchutti Para 4 Kurishukavala - I 5 Mannakudy 6 Pathimakkadu 7 Korampara 8 Kurishukavala - II 9 Vellapara 10 Sivanpara

10 11 Checkpost 12 Kadayiruppu Drainage

The drainage maps of the study area were generated digitally using SOI toposheets and watershed atlas maps of Kerala state Land Use Board (Figs. 4 and 5). Three streams namely Uchinikuthipuzha, Mathikettan puzha and Njandar the tributaries of Panniyar originate from the MSNP. No proper water resource map is available.

Fig. 4: Mathikettan Shola NP and surroundings (Drainage and communication)

Fig.5: Drainage map of Mathikettan Shola NP (based on 1:50,000 SOI toposheets)

11 2.6. Range of wildlife, status, distribution and habitat

The National Park offers a wide range of habitat types to the flora and fauna. There are 63 species of trees, 163 species of herbs and shrubs, 15 species of climbers (Annexure 2), 36 species of RET flora (Annexure 3) 9 species of mammals, 27 species of birds (Annexure 4) in the Park. Rainfall and terrain are the important factors that influence animal movements.

2.6.1. Vegetation Types

The dominant vegetation type of the area is southern subtropical hill forest. The dominant trees are Bhesa indica, Calophyllum austro-indicum, Syzygium gardneri Chionanthus rami flours, Litsea wightina, etc. Most of the area under these vegetation type is planted with Cardamom and Coffee. The Shola forests and grasslands were found to regenerate even in regions where massive afforestation activities had been carried out. Patches of Pteridium aquilinum, Gaultheria fragrantissima, etc. found in grasslands are active centers of initial colonization mostly by temperate species such as Rhododendron arboreum, Vaccinium leschnaultii, Eurya nitida, Microtropis ramiflora, Pittosporum tetraspermum, Symplocos cochinchinensis, Robus sp., etc. provided moisture conditions are also promoting. Scrubland regions, which are dominated by Strobilanthes kunthianus, Hypericum mysorense, Osbeckia spp., etc. were also found to be active centers of colonization.

2.6.1.1. Southern subtropical hill forest

West coast tropical evergreen forests: It is the climax vegetation in Kerala and is best represented at 600 to 1200. Earlier records indicate that these forests extended right from the sea level onwards but due to heavy demographic pressures almost all the coastal forests have disappeared except for sacred groves preserved on religious grounds. Physiognamically, the forest type is reaching a height of 0-45 m and are encountered at places where the minimum rainfall is at least 2000 mm./year. In undisturbed areas, stratification is conspicuous and at least three to four strata of vegetation are met with. Most of the trees are buttressed up to about 15m with festooning of trees with mosses, lichens, aroids, ferns, orchids etc. Common trees of the top story include species like Artocarpus heterophyllus, Bischofia javanica, Calophyllum

12 calosa, Calophyllum polyanthum, Canarium strictum, Cullenia exarillata, Drypetes elata, Dysoxylum malabaricum, Elaeocarpus tuberculatus, Holigarna spp. Messua ferrea, Palaquium ellipticum, Persea macrantha, Poiciloneuron indicum, Polyatlhia spp. Vateria indica, etc.

The second storey of the forest formation is about 20 m hight dominated by species like Aglaia elagboidea, Actinodaphne malabaricai, Baccaurea courtallensis, Cinnemomum spp., Garcinia spp, Syzigium spp. The third storey is generally less than 15 m height and are represented by small trees like Agrostachys meeboldii, Evonymus spp., Syzigium spp., Memecylon spp, Turpinia malabarica.

Ecologically, these forests are most advanced and encountered in ‘climax’ conditions. Floristic richness is high and these forests need preservation for both tangible and intangible benefits.

West coast semi-evergreen forests: It is transition type vegetation between evergreen and moist deciduous forests brought about due to disturbances in wet evergreen forest. It is often encountered in places where evergreen forests are subjected to heavy extractions. Ideal altitudinal limit of the vegetation is 600-800 m and at certain places it extends up to 900 m. If given adequate protection for nearly a century it can progress towards evergreens. The top storey of the forest type is composed of an admixture of both evergreen and deciduous species. Prominent evergreen trees are Artocarpus heterophyllus, Bischofia javanica, Calophyllum elatum, Hopea wightiana, Mesua ferrea, Knema attenuata, Myristica dactyloides, etc. while the deciduous elements are Acrocarpus fraxinifolius, Bombax malabarica, Chukrasia tabularis, Dalbergia latifolia, Grewia tilifolia, Lagerstroemia microcarpa, Terminalia bellerica, Toona ciliata, etc.

South Indian moist deciduous forests: From a commercial point of view this is the most productive forest type. The trees are of average height of 35 m and during the dry season from February to April, they are devoid of foliage. Buttressed trees are comparatively few in number and the dominant species are Albizia procera, Bombax malabarica, Dalbergia latifolia, Tectona grandis, Terminalia paniculata, T. tomentosa, T. belleriaca, Tetramelos nudiflora and xylocarpa. Bamboos and Reeds are quite common and layering of

13 trees is not quite distinct. Giant lianas like Enatada scandens and Spatholobus roxhurghii are also quite frequent. Ground flora consists of many species of medicinal plants.

Although the forest type is in succession towards “climatic climax” very often they are encountered only in seral stages due to repeated annual fires.

Grasslands: The high altitude natural grasslands are located along the northern and eastern boundaries of MSNP. These high altitude grasslands consist of grasses, herbs and shrubs. The dominant species of grasslands are Chrysopogon zeylanicus, Arundinella fuscata, Dichanthium polyptychum, Eulalia pheothrix, etc. The common non-grass species in the grasslands are Anaphallis sp., Swerita sp., Hypericum mysurensis, Phlebophyllum kunthianum, Eupatorium sp. Viola sp. and Pteridium aquilinum.

The extent of vegetation types as well as information on the RET species are not available at present.

Vegetation mapping: The vegetation mapping was done by KFRI using satellite imageries of IRS 1B LISS II of March 1996. The standard visual interpretation techniques were adopted using photo elements for the preparation of classification keys. The vegetation maps prepared by Forest Survey of (FSI maps, 1988) were also used for cross- reference. Survey of India Toposheets in 1:50,000 scale were used for forest boundary delimitation. The vegetation maps were prepared for Mathikettan Shola in 1:50,000 scale. The digital maps were generated using ‘MapInfo’ software from the hard copy output of 1:50,000 scale. The maps of vegetation in MSNP are given in Figs. 6 and 7.

Based on the Google image, from which the open grasslands can be easily located, the extent of grasslands was calculated to be around 0.8 km2.

2.6.2. Fauna

The type of animals found in a given area is the function of its existing communities, which in turn are governed by geo-morphology of soil, climate and rainfall conditions. The MSNP provides an excellent habitat for a wide variety of mammals, butterflies, reptiles and birds. The ground is usually covered with leaf litter, which helps in maintaining a high level of soil moisture. As a result, there is good regeneration of tree seedlings and herbaceous flora producing very characteristic microclimatic conditions supporting a rich fauna. The important mammals found in the Park are elephant, ,

14 wild boar, sambar, common langur, wild dog, civets and jungle cat. Malabar giant squirrel is absent in most of the areas of the park so is the grey jungle fowl. The area is an important migratory path of elephants moving from KDH in the north to in the south. The pioneer study on Liontailed macaque by the Japanese Primatologist Sugiyama. Y (The ecology of Liontailed macaque (Macaca silenus:. A pilot study by Sugiyama. Y (1968). JBNHS 65; 283) was carried out in these forests during 1968. But now the species is locally extinct.

Fig.6: Map of Mathikettan shola and surroundings

Map.7: Vegetation Map of Mathikettan Shola NP

15 The , Parantica nilgiriensis () which is restricted to some of the hills of and which has been listed as threatened species by IUCN was recorded to be highly abundant in the area. Besides this, these forests also harbor other rare species lepita, Pantoporia ranga, Rohana parisatis, Zipoetis saitis (Nymphalidae) and Jamides alecto (Lycaenidae), which are not commonly found in other parts of the Western Ghats. Athyma nefte, Eriboea athamas, Libythea myrrha, Ypthima avanta, Ypthima ceylonica (Nymphalidae) and Colotis fausta (Pieridae) that are commonly found in sholas of Munnar are rare in the Park. Mycalesis oculus, Vanessa indica and Cyrestis thyodamas (Nymphalidae) that are dominant at higher elevations. These species are adapted to a narrower set of climatic conditions and prefer cool and wet habitats.

2.6.2.1. Mammals

Vertebrate species other than birds, recorded from the Mathikettan area during the two days observation are given in Table 5.

Table.5: List of Mammals reported from MSNP Sl.No. Species Common Name Status 1 Semnopithecus johnii Fischer, Vulnerable 1829 Nilgiri langur Endemic to WG 2 Cuon alpinus Pallas, 1811 Asiatic wild dog Near threatened 3 Panthera pardus Linnaeus, Leopard Vulnerable 1758 4 Cervus unicolor Kerr, 1792 Sambar Least concern 5 Bos gaurus Smith, 1827 Gaur Vulnerable 6 Elephas maximus, Linnaeus, Vulnerable 1758

2.6.2.2. Avifauna

Twenty seven species of birds were recorded from the shola during the two days of observations. The list of birds recorded is given in the Table 6. Table.6: Bird species recorded from the MSNP

Sl. No. Bird Species Scientific Name 1. 1 Grey Jungle Fowl Gallus sonneratii 2. White cheeked Barbet Megalaima viridis 3. Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis 4. Malabar parakeet Psittacula columboides

16 5. Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba 6. Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela 7. Black Eagle Ictinaetus malayensis 8. Rufous bellied Eagle Hieraaetus kienerii 9. Changeable Hawk eagle Spizaetus cirrhatus 10. Large billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos 11. Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus flammeus 12. Greater Racket tailed Drongo Dicrurus paradiseus 13. Malabar Whistling Thrush Myiophonus horsfieldii 14. White bellied Blue flycatcher Cyornis pallipes 15. Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata 16. Hill Myna Gracula religiosa 17. Velvet fronted Nuthatch Sitta frontalis 18. Red whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus 19. Yellow browed bulbul Iole indica 20. Black Bulbul Hypsipetes leucocephalus 21. Oriental white eye Zosterops palpebrosa 22. Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus sp. 23. Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides 24. Nilgiri Laughing Thrush Garrulax cachinnans 25. Purple rumped Sunbird Nectarinia zeylonica 26. Grey wagtail Motacilla caspica 27. Speckled Piculet Picumnus innominatus

2.6.2.3. Diversity

The Insect fauna of MSNP shows close resemblance to that of Mannavan Shola. Diversity pattern of Mathikettan shola seems also to be at par with Mannavan shola. This area is likely to contain a higher proportion of rare and endemic species.

2.6.2.4. Butterflies

The butterfly fauna is rich in MSNP. Mycalesis oculus, Parantica nilgiriensis, Tirumala limniace, Tirumala septentrionis, , Vanessa indica (Nymphalidae); , Udara singalensis, Jamides bochus, Udara akasa (Lycaenidae); Eurema blanda, Eurema hecabe and Pieris canidia (Pieridae) are ubiquitous and Mycalesis oculus, Vanessa indica and Pieris canidia are abundant.

The butterfly fauna of the Park contain elements from three major biogeographical regions: the Oriental Region, Palaearctic and Afro tropical, of which majority of the species belonged to the Oriental region. The species Anaphaeis aurota, Catopsilia florella,

17 Eurema briggita (Pieridae); Junonia orithya and Melenitis leda (Nymphalidae) are the afro-tropical elements and Cyrestis thyodamas and Vanessa indica (Nymphalidae) are the Palaearctic elements that are recorded from the study area. The danaid Danaus chrysippus representing both Afrotropical and Palaearctic region and Cynthia cardui (Nymphalidae), having worldwide distribution, are also recorded. Among these Mycalesis oculus, Vanessa indica and Pieris canidia are the most abundant species and are found to be characteristic of shola forests, not being represented frequently in other forest types in the Western Ghats. Cirrochroa thais (Nymphalidae) is the most abundant species in the Park followed by Vanessa indica, Mycalesis oculus and Zipoetis satis, Cirrochroa thais (Nymphalidae); Delias eucharis (Pieridea); Udara akasa (Lycaenidae) and Papilio polymnestor (Papilionidae) which are recorded from the study area are endemic to the Western Ghats, while the species Mycalesis oculus, Parantica nilgiriensis, Ypthima chenui, Ypthima ypthimoides (Nymphalidae) and Colias nilgiriensis (Pieridae) are endemic to the Western Ghats shared only with Sri Lanka. Similerly, Athyma nefte, Eriboea athamas, Libythea myrrha, Ypthima avanta, Ypthima ceylonica (Nymphalidae) and Colotis fausta (Pieridae) are commonly found in sholas of Munnar.

These shola forests are also peculiar in not harboring almost the entire aristolochian (troidine) guild, which include minos, Pachliopta aristolochiae, P. hector (Papilionidae) etc. This guild is almost found in all other forest types of the Western Ghats. This is attributed to absence of species of the family Aristolochiacea in the area. The larvae of the members of the aristolochian guild are solely dependent on plants belonging to the family and hence its diversity and abundance greatly influence the survival of the members of this guild. Apart from this, some of the other larger species like Papilio budha and Papilio paris are also completely absent.

Apart from the above, other insects found in the shola include beetles, bees, wasps, dragonflies as well as syrphid and tabanid flies which are abundant. The information on RET species in the Park is not fully available at present and needs further studies.

18 CHAPTER 3 HISTORY OF MANAGEMENTS AND PRESENT PRACTICES

3.1. General

MSNP is part of the CHR notified by the Travancore Government Gazette dated the 24th August 1897, wherein the area was constituted as a Reserve Forest under section 18 of Regulation II of 1868. Over a period of 100 years the dual imperatives of policy and politics led to large scale deforestation, encroachment and alteration of the forests of CHR. Various Government orders/rules were issued for assigning the CHR area for cardamom cultivation and food production.

The provisions contained in G.O. (MS) 804/58/Rev. dated the 9th August 1958 were being followed for the management of the CHR area, thereby control over the tree growth vested with the Forest Department. Hence there was a dual control over the CHR areas.

By the end of last century, the once vast and continuous forests of CHR were subjected to severe fragmentation and degradation. Mathikettan was the only fragment that could survive the onslaught of a century. It was also being threatened by encroachments when the civil society and the political leadership with the active support of the media rose to the occasion and decided to preserve it for posterity. The encroachers who had planted substantial portions of the forests with cardamom and coffee and even built houses were evicted and subsequently, vide G.O. (MS) No. 328/2002/RD dated the 17th October 2002, government transferred 1281.7419 ha of the Mathikettan forests to the administrative control of Forest Department. Considering the unique nature of the evergreen forests in Mathikettan and its importance as an elephant corridor, the State Wildlife Advisory Board recommended to declare the area, as a National Park. The Park was notified on 10th October 2003. It came under the administrative control of Munnar Wildlife Division in 2005.

3.2. Timber operation There is no plantation in MSNP, no timber operation of any sort has been carried out in these areas and the working plan prescription also stipulated this. The area is planted with cardamom and coffee.

19 3.3. Non Wood Forest Produce Collection There are many human settlements adjoining to the boundary of this National Park. Out of this, one is a Muduvas settlement (Aaduvilanthan Kudi) and the rest belong to Tamil People. The people of the various colonies are wholly dependent on this Shola for firewood and other non-wood forest produces. The tribal collect the following NWFP from this Shola Forest.

1. Honey 5. Lichens 2. Bhadraksham 6. Vines of passion fruit 3. Telli 7. Kattu jathi 4. Wild pepper

3.4. Leases

No part of National park is leased to any organizations/ bodies.

3.5. Other programmes and activities

The Park is situated about 2kms from Kochi – Madurai National Highway and 10kms away from Munnar-Kumily State Highway. At present the Park can be accessed by two roads that are under the control of Panchayath and are not properly maintained. The various departments and agencies like Panchayath and Departments of Tribal, Agricultural, Education and Health have activities in adjoining colonies and the settlement.

3.6. Forest protection

There is a Mudhuva tribal colony at ‘Aduvilathan Kudi’ situated along the northeastern borders of Mathikettan Shola. There are about thirty three houses in these settlements. They graze their livestock around their hamlet. They have been traditionally associated with the management of the area even from colonial days. It is very important that the boundaries of the reserves are properly demarcated and maintained as otherwise it would be extremely difficult to deal effectively with encroachments. The MSNP is under the control of Range Officer Shola National Park having head quarter about 75 km away from Park. The park is managed by a Forester and three Forest Guards at present. The National Park at present does not have a separate vehicle, arms, ammunition,

20 equipment, accommodation facilities related to protection of National Park. There is also no institutional mechanism for coping with the inter-state problems.

3.6.1. Legal Status

The MSNP is part of CHR and was declared as National Park on 10th October 2003 as per Notification No. 50/2003/F&WLD under Section 35(I) of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. The final notification is pending.

3.6.2. Hunting

There are no records of hunting in MSNP.

3.6 3. Poaching and other illegal activities

3.6.3.1. Poaching

No cases of poaching recorded in MSNP.

3.6.3.2. Illegal cutting of trees

The details of illegal cutting of trees in MSNP is given in Table 7.

Table.7: Details of illegal cutting of trees in MSNP

Details of illegal cutting of trees for the last 10 years Date of offence No. accused Values of seizers 22-08-96 - 8000 25-08-96 4 500 22-08-97 3 2000 18-12-97 2 2000 18-12-98 2 4000 23-03-99 3 1500 29-04-99 4 500 28-06-99 3 2050 02-07-99 3 10000 28-07-99 - - 01-08-99 1 1500 04-08-99 5 - 24-01-01 - 550 23-02-01 1 150 16-03-01 2 500 17-01-01 2 2125 24-04-02 - 500 24-04-02 - -

21 25-04-02 3 3000 04-07-03 1 - 11-07-03 - - 12-07-03 - - 17-07-03 1 - 19-07-03 - - 29-07-03 1 - 05-07-03 1 - 08-08-03 - - 08-08-03 - - 22-07-05 - -

3.6.3.3. Illegal removal of NWFP

The details of illegal removal of NWFP species collected from MSNP is given in Table 8.

Table.8: Details of illegal removal of NWFP from MSNP Illegal removal of NWFP for the last 10 years Date of Offence No. accused Value of seizers 15-10-02 - 500 16-10-02 16 12700 23-10-02 5 1000 28-02-02 - 300 19-06-03 1 800 27-08-03 2 500 25-09-03 2 150

3.6.4. Domestic live stock grazing

The people on the adjoining area of National Park have nearly 30 cattles. Impact due to grazing by cattle from settlement and colonies shall be managed through the strategy of eco-development. The details of the strategy are to be mentioned in the respective micro plans of settlements or a separate user group EDC for grazier has to be constituted.

3.6.5. Fire

The fire seasons starts by the end of Monsoons rains and extend from the period of three to four months then the pre monsoons showers are available by the month of May. The grasslands are highly prone to fire occurrence. The forests are protected from fire by

22 strategically placed fire lines, engaging fire protection Mazdoors and the fire gangs during the onset of the dry season. The EDCs are also entrusted with fire control in the areas.

3.6.6. Insect attacks and pathological problems

Insect attacks and pathological problems are not a serious issue in the park.

3.6.7. Wildlife Health

Certain area of the Park was planted up with cardamom and coffee. No study has been conducted on the impact of cardamom and coffee on natural regeneration and wildlife health. The presence of cattle on the fringes poses the threat of outbreak of foot and mouth decease and other communicable diseases. The surrounding and neighboring villages have large number of cattle population and all these cause serious threat to the National Park. There is no programme at present to monitor the health of wildlife.

3.7. Tourism

Over the last few years there has been a steady increase in the number of visitors to Munnar They offer good opportunities for eco-tourism and interpretation activities. Protection-oriented, nature-based tourism package like Shola Trekking and Camping in Log House is planned. The park has no entry fee at present.

3.7.1. Visitor management

The Park lack in information signboards and basic infrastructure facilities. Tourism in the Park is in initial stage. The first priority will be given to the creation of infrastructure facilities at Peythotty. The northern side of Park is only 2 km away from the N.H 49, on southern side the Park has access from Shanthanpara (10km). Tourists coming from both sides can be allowed to enter the Park on payment of an entry fee at the designated location. At present visitors are not permitted to the National Park.

3.7.2. Conservation Education

The Park lacks basic infrastructure facilities for conservation Education. Once basic infrastructure facilities for conservation education are established, nature camps for school/college students, NGOs etc. can be conducted regularly. Even without the basic infrastructure facilities conservation education among the hamlets surrounding Park is attempted and attempts to form eco-development committees (EDC) in these hamlets is

23 in progress. Shola grasslands and the perennial streams present in the Park are better model for conservation education for the students of schools and colleges. These facilities can be created at Peythotty. An information centre and amenity centre is already established at Peythotty.

. 3.7.3. Eco tourism

Eco tourism will be one of the most important activities aimed by the Park management. The eco-tourism initiatives inside the park will be developed in a phased manner and the EDC will be fully responsible for the implementation of the eco-tourism activities with mutual commitments for protection of the National Park. The eco tourism activities will be mostly attempting guided trekking and camping inside forests. The proposed protection-oriented, nature-based tourism and education interpretation are discussed in Part-II of Management Plan.

3.8. Research monitoring and training

3.8.1. Research & monitoring

The Shola grassland Eco system is ecologically superior in terms of soil and moisture conservation. The habitat also supports a lot of endemic and rare species. MSNP interspersed by various type of forest, provides a wide range of habitats to different species of flora and fauna, and a large number of medical plant. Long-term studies are needed to understand the status of the animal and avifaunal populations, which will be incorporated in the prescriptions of this plan. Data on animal fauna is highly essential for planning the management strategies for the National Park. Priority will be given to study the status of the mammal and bird community. Rapid Assessment of Biodiversity of the Park was carried out by Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi (KFRI extension Project Report No. 15). At present no monitoring system of flora and fauna is in operation. The proposed Research and Monitoring has been discussed in Part-II of the Management Plan.

3.8.2. Training

Except for study tours for ecodevelopment and brief training courses, the staff is under trained. They have not undergone any form of wildlife training or training in the maintenance and use of firearms, wireless etc. Absence of any specialized training for

24 the front line staff lowers their efficiency. Inadequacy of staff and the large array of activities make it difficult for them from undergoing any training program seriously. Training courses on various ecological aspects, wildlife health monitoring, census, etc will be organized for the department staff. Training for tribals will be given and they can be employed as watchers and guides for nature trials. Training in ecodevelopment will also be given for the teachers in the Kudies and for members of the local bodies. The proposed trainings are discussed in Part-II of the Management Plan.

3.8.3. Census

No census and systematic survey has been conducted in the National Park. Bird survey and animal Census should be conducted in Mathikettan National Park to develop proper wildlife management programme, detailed survey of medicinal plants and flora is required to understand the floristic composition of the Park.

Wildlife conservation strategies & evaluation

No management plan was formulated in this National Park for the conservation of flora and fauna. Neither Wildlife management schemes, nor special plans were in vogue, more over no special budget allocation was available for any treatment in these areas. Allocation for fire protection was alone available for treatment in these areas.

Administrative set up

MSNP is one of the administration units of Munnar wild life division under the jurisdiction of wildlife warden, Munnar. The Head Quarters of the Division is at Munnar, about 40 KM away from the National park. There are no posts earmarked for the administration of the National Park. At present the Assistant Wild life warden Shola National Park, which is, situated 75 KM away from the National Park is in charge of this National park. In addition to MSNP two other National parks namely Pambadum Shola and Anaimudi Shola National Parks and Kurinjimala Wildlife Sanctuary are also in the Shola Range. At present the park is managed by deploying one forester and three forest guards from Kadavari station. The day today activities and protection of the Park is also assisted by 6 protection mazdoors who are enlisted on NMR.

25 3.9. Communication

Being new National Park no basic infrastructure facilities are available. Hence no telephone, wireless or any other communication facilities are available in the park. The wild Life Wardens office at Munnar has telephone and E-mail facilities as well as mobile phone for the warden. They are as follows:

POSTAL ADDRESS O/o Wildlife warden O/o Assistant wild life warden Munnar – 685612 Shola National Parks Telephone No. 04865 231587 Email address: [email protected] Yellapatty P.O., Mobile phone No.9447979093 Top Station

3.10. Summary of threats to wildlife

The Park is having the following threats:

Ganja Cultivation: The presence of remote areas attracts Ganja cultivators to operate within the National Park for the illegal cultivation of Ganja plants causing severe damages to the eco system.

Invasive alien species: Old plantations of Cardamom and Coffee present in the park are having impact on natural regeneration.

Poachers and smugglers: Poachers and smugglers are another problem in Protected Area management. This problem is not a matter of serious concern in MSNP.

NWFP collection: The MSNP is rich in Non Timber Forest Produce. People of tribal settlements and locals are regularly engaged in collection of Non Timber Forest Produces. People are using Non Timber Forest Produce mainly for self-use and sale. The unscientific collection practices of Non Timber Forest Produce cause severe damage to the ecosystem. Moreover the illegal practice is leading to the extinction of many locally endemic plants within the Protected Area.

Firewood collection: firewood collection is a problem in the National Park. The practice is widespread due to the existence of tribal settlement adjacent to the National park and a large number of local people in the fringe area. Majority families are depending up on firewood for domestic purpose.

26 Wildlife diseases: The Park is not much exposed to wildlife diseases, though there is a high cattle rearing within the tribal settlement and local residence on the fringe area of the National Park.

Illicit distillation: Few of the private enclosures are corridors of illicit distillery practices within the Ecological zone of National Park. People are using forest areas also for illicit distillery practices. They are collecting large quantity of firewood from nearby forest areas for illicit distillery practices. This causes heavy toll to the eco-system of Protected Area.

Human-wildlife conflict: The population in human habitations adjacent to the National Park is estimated to be more than 2000. Majority of people are engaged in agricultural practices. The landuse practices in the fringes and in corridors attract the wild animals especially elephants. Major attacks to are from wild boars, elephant, sambar deer, bonnet macaque, etc. Man-Animal conflict is severe in Aduvilathankudy, Sundal, Thondimala, Thalakulam, Korampara, Peythotti, Dalam and Njandar.

Soil erosion: Soil erosion in National Park is mainly due to grazing by cattle and deforestation. Major kinds of soil erosion reported in the National Park are gully, hill and stream bank erosions.

27 CHAPTER 4

THE PROTECTED AREA AND THE INTERFACE LANDUSE SITUATION

4.1. The existing situation in the zone of influence

There is one Muthuvan settlement adjoining the boundary of the National Park. The Adavilathan Kudy located in northeastern side of the park and two S.C colonies in Chundal situated outside the park. In northern side of the park one Tamil agricultural labor colony is situated in Peythotty. The details of adjoining Muduvans tribal settlement are as follows:

Name of settlement No. of families Population No. of cattle/goat Aduvilanthan Kudy 32 120 30

In this settlement 32 Muduvans families are concentrated. Muduvans and local people involved as labors in cardamom plantations. Honey and cane are collected and marketed now. They also cultivate cardamom and coffee for marketing. Panjapullu is cultivated for their livelihood. Thatching grass is collected for construction of houses.

The people settled in Korampara, Muthupara, Chundal, Thondimala, etc for using the water discharged from the National Park.

4.1.1. PA-People Mutual impact

Being adjoining the forest one settlement and two S.C colonies have significant impact on the park and vice-versa, and no serious restraint on the activities of the people in terms of meeting their necessities like firewood collection, cattle grazing N.WF.P collection. Their grazing pressure on the forest around the settlements and colonies leading to the degradation of forest and soil.

All the adjoining Settlements suffer badly from crop depredation by Wild animals especially wild boar and elephant.

4.2. The Development program and conservation issues

The conservation issues were not given priority in the past management practices. This area was planted with cardamom and coffee.

28 4.2.1. An evaluation of Government and non-government agencies

The activities of agencies like the Panchayat and tribal department, even though they are in consonance with the stated objectives of ecodevelopment like providing solar powered electricity, smokeless choolas or biogas plants, are at present carried out without the knowledge or permission of the Forest Department. Though the measures may be eco-friendly in the mainland context, their appropriateness in the context of the PA is questionable. All of them do so without intimating the management of P.A. More co-operations is requires among Forest Officers and other agencies in formation of integrated development programmes and schemes.

4.2.2. The interplay of market forces and their impact

For the people adjacent to the Park Poopara and Bodimettu controls their economic life as they sell their products and buy necessities from these areas. The long existing exploitative relationship of the debt trap system still continues unabated. To reduce the dependency of the people on P.A resources they have to be provided with financial and technical assistance for alternate means of livelihood. Implementing eco development programs and starting eco tourism activities with participation of people will improve their living standard.

4.2.3. Eco development activities

In the settlement colonies, Participatory Rural Appraisal has to be conducted and detailed micro plan for each settlement have to be prepared. Site specific plans have to be prepared to reduce the dependencies on the Park. The settlers in Aduvilangankudi, Sundal, Thondimala, Thalakulam, Korampara, Peythotti, Dalam and Njandar needs priority in ecodevelopment activities.

29 Vision

Restoration and Conservation of Shola Ecosystem for Biological Diversity, Ecological Services, Water Security and ensuring Ecological Connectivity

30 CHAPTER 5 PLAN OBJECTIVES AND PROBLEMS

5.1. Objectives of the Management

· To conserve the rich biological diversity with special emphasis on rare, endangered, threatened and endemic species in the unique montane evergreen forest ecosystem, the only relic in the CHR

· To establish connectivity and corridor for movement of elephants

· To restore and maintain the originality of montane evergreen forest ecosystem and landscape

· To maintain and improve the watersheds of the National Park

· To promote environmental conservation awareness

· To facilitate nature-based regulated tourism

· To strengthen People-PA interface

5.2. Problems in achieving objectives & strategies to overcome the problems

· Objective 1: To conserve the rich biological diversity with special emphasis on rare, endangered, threatened and endemic species in the unique montane evergreen forest ecosystem, the only relic in the CHR.

Problems in achieving Strategies to overcome the problems the objectives Presence of planted • Map the extent of cardamom and coffee cardamom and coffee • Removal by cutting / uprooting on an experimental basis within the Park • Monitoring regeneration status and soil erosion • Explore possibilities of using coffee stumps for income generating activities Lack of data on extent • Mapping of vegetation types of vegetation types Fire • Collect details of fire prone zones (Bodimettu to Thondimala), impact due to fire, cause of fire, etc • Prepare fire management plan (possible activities: firelines/fire breaks, timely engagement of fire mazdoors, construction of watch towers, procuring modern equipments, creation of

31 awareness, training to staff and EDC members, etc) • Participatory fire management Grazing • Study & monitor the number, extent and impact of grazing • Reduce number of cattle by providing alternate livelihood and encourage stall feeding • Vaccination of cattle – twice an year • Form an user-group EDC Lack of wildlife health • Impart training to staff & EDC members on wildlife health monitoring mechanism monitoring • Strengthen veterinary support for effective monitoring ensuring institutional collaboration • Implement regular wildlife health monitoring • Move proposal for notifying veterinary hospitals near PA as supporting agency • Lack of information on • Conduct studies to document the flora and fauna of the PA the status of flora including RET and endemics and fauna including • Document traditional knowledge of indigenous communities RET and endemics • Conduct population monitoring of selected species of flora and fauna • Assisted regeneration of selected endemic flora • Study on the habitat utilization and movement pattern (with radio telemetry) of elephants within and outside PA • Explore possibilities for reintroduction of locally extinct species (LTM) Lack of infrastructure • Create infrastructure requirement for effective management of including PA communication, arms, vehicles, equipments & accommodation NWFP collection for • Study the extent and impact of NWFP collection (honey, self use and sale badraksham, telli, wild pepper, lichens, vines of passion fruits, kattu jathi,(endemic to CHR, Myristica beddomi usteolata) etc) • Evolve scientific/ sustainable collection methods • Provide training to EDC members for scientific/ sustainable collection of NWFP resources & value addition • Define zone of collection and frame access rules for sustainable collection and phase out collection of telli, kattu jathi, kalpasham (lichens) • Propose alternate livelihood to prevent unscientific/ unsustainable collection • Encourage regeneration of NWFP & medicinal plant species placed in RED Data Book • Promote planting of selected endemic NWFP species in the homesteads. Lack of separate staff • Propose for separate staff for the Park for effective for the Park management of PA & check posts • Muduvan watchers

32 Lack of welfare • Identify required welfare amenities for staff and propose to amenities for staff implement Potential ganja • Strengthen protection with improved facilities and ensure cultivation support of local people for preventing all illegal activities. • Prepare protection plan, divide the area in to smaller field formation (patrolling units) for effective protection. Presence of invasive • Study and identify invasive species that have negative impact on specie ecosystem • Control/removal/prevent growth of invasive species with appropriate method. • Monitoring of intrusion and regeneration of invasive species Poaching & Illicit felling • Prepare protection plan, divide the area in to smaller field formation (patrolling units) for effective protection.. • Strengthen Intelligence gathering • Capacity building for staff in intelligence gathering, identifying wildlife article, acts and rules, etc. • Incentives to informants • Anti-poaching camp sheds in crucial points. • Strengthen communication facilities, arms and mobility of staff Lack of information on • Study and identify the spatial and temporal distribution of water judicious distribution of sources in view of animal’s requirement water sources for • Ensure judicious distribution of water sources throughout the wildlife park Absence of zonation • Propose zones (core, restoration/multi-purpose) Interstate boundary • Take steps to prevent spreading of fire, poaching and other illegal activities from the adjoining state through periodic interaction, joint patrolling, sharing information on smugglers, joint raids, etc.

· Objective 2: To establish connectivity and corridor for movement of elephants

Problems in achieving Strategies to overcome the problems the objectives Lack of detailed • Study the aspects of connectivity and corridor for movement of information on elephants connectivity and • Declare crucial corridors of elephants as Conservation Reserve / corridor for movement Community Reserve / Protection Zones of elephants • Improvement of habitat of the crucial corridors • Periodic meeting with stakeholders in corridors

· Objective 3: To restore and maintain the originality of montane evergreen forest ecosystem and landscape Problems in achieving Strategies to overcome the problems the objectives Lack of information on • Collate information on the extent and impact of cardamom and the extent and impact coffee and ground truthing

33 of cardamom and • Experimental removal of cardamom and coffee coffee within the Park • Assisted regeneration of indigenous species • Monitoring of regeneration • Establishment of a permanent plot for monitoring succession and ecorestoration Fire • Collect details of fire prone zones (Bodimettu to Thondimala), impact due to fire, cause of fire, etc • Prepare fire management plan (possible activities: firelines/fire breaks, timely engagement of fire mazdoors, construction of watch towers, procuring modern equipments, creation of awareness, training to staff and EDC members, etc) • Participatory fire management Grazing • Study & monitor the number, extent and impact of grazing • Reduce number of cattle by providing alternate livelihood and encourage stall feeding • Vaccination of cattle – twice an year • Form an user-group EDC NWFP collection • Study the extent and impact of NWFP collection (honey, badraksham, telli, wild pepper, lichens, vines of passion fruits, kattu jathi,(endemic to CHR, Myristica beddomi usteolata) etc) • Evolve scientific/ sustainable collection methods • Provide training to EDC members for scientific/ sustainable collection of NWFP resources & value addition • Define zone of collection and frame access rules for sustainable collection and phase out collection of telli, kattu jathi, kalpasham (lichens) • Propose alternate livelihood to prevent unscientific/ unsustainable collection • Encourage regeneration of NWFP & medicinal plant species placed in RED Data Book • Promote planting of selected endemic NWFP species in the homesteads.

· Objective 4: To maintain and improve the watersheds of the National Park

Problems in achieving Strategies to overcome the problems the objectives Lack of data on · Mapping of water sources hydrology of the PA · Prepare drainage map · Install metereological stations for regular monitoring · Implement suitable measures for maintaining and improving watersheds Possible conflict in · Initiate dialogue with local bodies and beneficiaries. using water for · Enhance water discharge capacity through habitat domestic purpose from improvement activities Park by fringe area people (at Korampara,

34 Muthupara, Chundal, Thondimala, etc)

· Objective 5: To promote environmental conservation awareness

Problems in achieving Strategies to overcome the problems the objectives Lack of infrastructure • Explore feasibility for developing a interpretation centre/Information centre at Peythotty in collaboration with local bodies and NGOs • Improvement and maintenance of the road from Peythotty to the entrance of Park Lack of resource • Create a post of Wildlife Assistant at Division level. persons Inadequate education • Develop education materials for various target groups, brochures, materials for different posters, movies, etc target groups Insufficient awareness • Conduct nature awareness camps for various target groups campaigns including people on the fringe. • Create a website Lack of signage • Develop appropriate signages.

· Objective 6: To facilitate nature-based regulated tourism

Problems in achieving Strategies to overcome the problems the objectives Lack of trained • Engage trained resource persons by FDA human-resource

Lack of training to • Capacity building & training to guides and staff local people and staff

Lack of equipments • Procure adequate equipments to be given to tourists on rent like binoculars, leech- proof socks, etc Lack of ban on waste • Legal Enforcement with fine accumulation • Involvement of EDCs in removal of plastics as part of mutual including plastics commitment. • Ensure support of local bodies • Create awareness among local communities / visitors to park Lack of dissemination • Develop dissemination mechanisms of nature-based • Create a website regulated tourism potentials

35 Lack of specified • Develop appropriate nature based tourism plan considering nature-based protection of PA and ensuring livelihood security of dependant regulated tourism community and PA management activities Lack of benefit sharing • Identify and initiate dialogues with tour operators and formulate mechanism from tour benefit sharing mechanisms operators for the benefit of the local people/forest dependent communities Lack of recycling of • Move proposal for recycling entry fee entry fee for the benefit of park & the local people

Lack of impact • Prepare site specific microplan with baseline information and monitoring conduct annual impact assessment through participatory mechanism

· Objective 7: To strengthen People-PA interface

Problems in achieving Strategies to overcome the problems the objectives Human-Wildlife • Declare crucial corridors of elephants as Conservation Reserve / (elephant, boar) Community Reserve / Protection Zones to regulate land use in Conflict at Peythotty, tune with the management objectives Thondimala, Dalam, • Improvement of habitat of the crucial corridors Korampara, • Develop appropriate barriers to prevent wildlife entering the Thalakkulam, farmlands Bodimettu, Njandar, • Timely payment of compensation • Institution of crop insurance • Appropriate habitat improvement programmes within the Park Lack of proper waste • Development of a waste management plan by the local body disposal strategy by local body Lack of information on • Study the extent of the problem and wildlife and crops involved the extent of conflict Lack of • Constitute EDCs and design appropriate ecodevelopment ecodevelopment programmes programmes Lack of funds for • Seek funds from various sources (Local bodies / other line implementing departments/ Govt of India) through FDA ecodevelopment programme Inadequate supporting • Deploy adequate trained support team including social workers team for /voluntary services

36 implementing ecodevelopment programmes Absence of • Identify the needs /aspirations and natural and cultural resources information on needs of local community and natural and • Identify the potentials to be utilised for the livelihood security of cultural resources of local people local and ethnic communities (muthuvans) Lack of training to • Impart training to staff staff

37 CHAPTER 6 STRATEGIES

BOUNDARIES, ZONATION, ZONE PLANS AND THEME PLANS 6.1. Boundaries

6.1.1. Legal Boundary

North: Boundary commences from the point were the interstate boundary between Kerala and Tamil Nadu meets the southern boundary of survey No. 32 Pooppara Village of the resurvey minor circuit and runs west parallel to Bodimettu - Pooppara road, along the southern boundary of survey No. 17, 16, 13, 14, 8 ,22 and hence turning south along the eastern boundary of block 13 and survey numbers 34, 35, 36, 37 and hence along the western boundary of survey No38 to reach a point where the northern most extremely of survey No. 38 meets the Resurvey Minor Circuit.

West: Thence the boundary turns south and follows the Resurvey Minor Circuit along the Eastern boundary of block No. 13 till it meets the Northern boundary of survey No. 65 and turn south along the Eastern boundary of survey No. 65 till it meets the boundary of survey No. 64 on the line democratizing the area handed over after eviction.

South: Thence the boundary turns east along the Northern boundary of survey No. 64, 63 and turns south along the Eastern boundary of survey No. 78, 71, 72, 73, 74, 174, 192, 193, 195, 197 and turn south along the eastern boundary of survey no. 198, 199 and again turns north East along the Northern boundary of survey No. 205, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212 to meet the interstate boundary.

East: Thence the boundary runs north along the interstate boundary till it reaches the starting point.

The legal boundaries are already surveyed and 70% of the boundary is already consolidated with permanent cairns. The Wildlife Warden may take action for completion of the boundary consolidation. The Wildlife Warden may also take action for final notification of the National Park.

38 6.1.2. Ecological Boundaries

The Park shares its eastern boundary with the boundary of Theni Forest Division in Tamil Nadu. The north, west and south are surrounded by the cardamom plantations of CHR. The elephants use MSNP for moving from and Anairangal towards the south to Chakkulathimedu and then to Tevaram in Tamilnadu. Their movements further south towards Periyar Tiger Reserve has been totally cut off. There is no detailed study on connectivity and movement of elephants in the area. The Wildlife Warden shall initiate actions to

· Study the aspects of connectivity and corridor for movement of elephants

· Declare crucial corridors of elephants as Conservation Reserve / Community Reserve / Protection Zones

· Improve habitat of the crucial corridors

· Arrange periodic meetings with stakeholders in corridors

6.1.2.1. Internal Boundaries

There are no well defined internal boundaries regarding vegetation type, extent of cardamom and coffee planted inside the forest. The Wildlife Warden may initiate action for mapping of vegetation and mapping the extent of cardamom and coffee.

6.2. Zonation

The park management zoning scheme has been developed to:

· Provide a geographical framework in which to manage the Park

· Indicate which management directions have priority in different parts of the Park

· Indicate the types and levels of use appropriate throughout the Park

· Assist in minimizing existing and potential conflicts between uses and activities, or between these and the protection of park values

· Provide a basis for assessing the suitability of future activities and development proposals.

39 6.3. Zone plans

In order to achieve the objective the park is divided into the following zones. 1. Core zone 2. Restoration zone 3. Buffer zone or multiple use area 4. Eco sensitive zone and crucial corridor 6.3.1. Plan for Core zone

The core zone is the fully protected zone where human interference is strictly prohibited Core will be located in upper, lower and the eastern parts of the park which are comparatively undisturbed (Fig.8). The core area is having total extent of 5.95 km2. The focus of management will be total protection of natural resources. The following activities subject to specific proposals in respective chapters of this management plan will be allowed to be implemented.

Fig.8. Management Zones of MSNP

40 · Anti poaching initiatives

o Construction, maintenance and improvement of small anti-poaching camps/chowkies, patrolling camps, check posts, barriers, boundary walls, constructions of small staff quarters for the frontline staff, etc.

· Communication and protection measures

o Construction of wireless towers, improvement and maintenance of fair weather forest roads not exceeding three meters in width, small bridges, culverts, fences, etc.

· Fire protection measures

o Clearance and maintenance of fire lines as prescribed in the Management Plan by undertaking controlled cool or early burning and construction of watch towers

o No fireline should be taken on the edge of the shola forest. The fireline around the shola should be taken giving the reasonable space for the extension of shola forest.

o Scraping of grass as fireline around the shola should be avoided. The system followed in Eravikulam NP by Mudhuvans for creation of fireline without scrapping may be followed.

· Habitat improvement activities

o Weed eradication, maintenance and development of meadows/grassland required for wild herbivores which are prey base for the carnivores, digging and maintenance of small water holes and small anicuts, earthen tanks, impoundment of rain water

· Management of grassland habitats

o Early or cool controlled winter burning of grassland habitats to facilitate growth of fresh grass

· Studies/data collection

41 o The studies like mapping of vegetation, wildlife health monitoring, documentation of flora and fauna including RET and endemic, population monitoring of selected flora and fauna, habitat utilization and movement pattern of elephants, invasive species that have negative impact on ecosystem, spatial and temporal distribution of water sources, mapping of water sources, drainage map, etc.

6.3.2. Plan for Restoration zone

The area planted with cardamom and coffee which is falling in the central part of the park (Fig.9) is taken into Restoration zone. The total extent of the restoration zone is 3.94 km2 (Fig.8). The restoration zone after removal of cardamom and coffee will be included in the core zone.

For restoration and maintenance of the originality of the montane evergreen forest ecosystem and landscape, the following strategies and activities are proposed.

§ Map the extent of cardamom and coffee

§ Removal by cutting / uprooting on an experimental basis

§ Assisted regeneration of indigenous species. The species listed in Table 9 which is recommended by Sri. U.M. Chandrasekharan, Sri. P.K. Muraleedharan and Sri. V. Sibichan suitable for shola forest may be tried for assisted regeneration on trial basis.

§ Monitoring regeneration status and soil erosion

§ Establishment of a permanent plot for monitoring succession and ecorestoration

§ Monitoring the utilization of coffee berries by wild animals such as civets and birds

The activities prescribed for core zone are applicable to restoration zone also.

42 Fig. 9: Landuse pattern in MSNP

Table.9: List of species suggested for assisted regeneration Mannavan shola Pullaradi shola Mathan shola Acronychia pedunculata Elaeocarpus serratus Neolitsea scrobiculata Actinodaphne bourdillonii Elaeocarpus munronii Presea macrantha Alseodaphne semecarpifolia Elaeocarpus recurvatus Rhododendron nilgiricum Beilschmiedia wightii Glochidion neilgherrense Schefflera racemosa Canthium dicoccum Gomphandra coriacea Symplocos cochinchinensis Chionanthus ramiflorus Hydnocarpus alpina Syzygium cumini Cinnamomum sulphuratum Litsea floribunda Syzygium densiflorum Cinnamomum sp. Litsea wightiana Syzygium gardneri Cryptocarya bourdillonii Mastuxua arborea Turpinia nepalensis Cyathea nilgiriensis Meliosma pinnata Vaccinium leschenaultia Daphniphyllum neilgherrense Microtopis raniflora Viburnum coriaceum Neolitsea cassia Source: Chandrasekhara et.al., 2001.

6.3.3. Plan for Buffer zone or multiple use area

The 200 m distance from the boundary to inside on Kerala side is included in the buffer zone. The total extent of the buffer zone is 2.92 km2 (Fig.8).

43 The core and restoration zone activities are applicable to buffer zone also.

The buffer zone will perform the functions of

1. Promoting environmental conservation awareness

2. Nature based regulated tourism

3. Strengthen People-PA interface

The activities to be carried out in buffer zone are covered in respective zone plan/theme plans.

6.3.4. Plan for Eco sensitive zone and crucial corridor

The MSNP in isolation is an island surrounded by various land use practices. The status of land adjoining to Mathikettan National Park are CHR, lease lands, patta lands, government lands, etc. The fragmented habitat and land use practices has promoted the human-wildlife conflict over a period of time mostly in the areas of Peythotty, Thondimala, Dalam, Korampara, Thalakkulam, Bodimettu, Njandar. The conflict is more severe in Anayirangal area. The ongoing study by WWF India (Fig.10) has mapped the Park and its landscape beset with human-elephant conflict. As per the WWF report the elephants from MSNP moves to Anayirangal through:

(a) Through Thalakkulam, Thondimala, Sundal and Panthadikkulam (b) Through Thalakkulam and Mulatharakud (c) Through Kallapuzha, Shankarapandimettu, Puthappara, Mulathara, and Kozhippennakudy The activities prescribed for Eco sensitive zone and crucial corridor are

• Declare crucial corridors of elephants as Conservation Reserve / Community Reserve / Protection Zones to regulate land use in tune with the management objectives.

• Improvement of habitat of the crucial corridors.

• Develop appropriate barriers to prevent wildlife entering the farmlands in locations like Thalakkulam, Thondimala, Sundal, Panthadikkulam, Mulatharakud, Kallapuzha, Shankarapandimettu, Puthappara, Mulathara, Dalam, Njandar and Kozhippennakudy.

44 • Timely payment of compensation.

• Institution of crop insurance.

• Appropriate habitat improvement programmes within the Park for promoting forage and water availability.

• Study the extent of the problem of wildlife damage and crops involved in the locations such as Thalakkulam, Thondimala, Sundal, Panthadikkulam, Mulatharakud, Kallapuzha, Shankarapandimettu, Puthappara, Mulathara, Dalam, Njandar and Kozhippennakudy.

Fig.10. Landuse pattern in Anayirangal region in Munnar Forest Division (WWF study)

6.4. Theme Plans

The Mathikettan National Park will be managed under the following theme plan 1. Theme plan for Protection 2. Theme plan for Fire protection 3. Theme plan for water shed and water resources management

6.4.1. Theme plan for Protection

The MSNP is having total extent of 12.81 km2. It is having the interstate boundary of 9 km with Theni Division of Tamil Nadu. The park is having threats like cultivation of ganja, illicit distillation, poaching, smuggling of timber, etc. The park is also having pressures on

45 natural resources like grazing, firewood collection, NWFP collection, etc. Although the park was notified in 2003, there are many gaps in protecting the natural resources of the park. In order to protect the natural resources of the park the following strategies and activities are proposed.

6.4.1.1. Administration of the Park

The Wildlife Warden is based at Munnar which is 40 km away from the park and the office of the Assistant wildlife Warden of the park is at Top Station which is 75 km away from the park. The Assistant Wildlife Warden is having administrative control over Pambadum shola NP, Mathikettan Shola NP, Anamudi Shola NP and . Presently one Forester and three Forest Guards are deployed from Kadavari station for the protection of the park.

It is proposed to redeploy on Deputy Range Officer, one Forester and four Forest Guards from Kadavari / Kambakkal Station to the MSNP with head quarters for Dy. Range Officer, Forester and two Forest Guards at Peythotty and two Forest Guards near Aduvilunthankudy. The whole area of the National Park will be managed as one Section.

6.4.1.2. Infrastructure

Administrative building

Presently, there is no office as well as quarter for Dy. Range officer office. It is proposed to construct office cum quarters at Peythotty including furnishing and Computer facilities (Fig.11). At present the Forester also does not have accommodation facilities and hence construction of a Forester quarters is proposed at Peythotty. The two Forest Guards at Peythotty will be accommodated in two camp shed presently available at Peythotty. The two camp sheds near Aduvilanthankudy will be occupied by the two Forest Guards stationed at Aduvilanthankudy. The campsheds proposed to be occupied by the Forest Guards may be upgraded by providing basic amenities (toilets, tables, chairs, etc.).

The existing camp sheds at Suryakkalpara (2 Nos.), Sivanpara (1 No.) will be manned by protection watchers and staff will make frequent camps during perambulation.

46 6.4.1.3. Perambulation procedure

The Wildlife Warden will divide the park into patrolling units and communicate to the staff. The perambulation schedule will be communicated to the staff on monthly basis for implementation The Assistant Wildlife Warden and Wildlife Warden will also join for patrolling and make frequent surprise checks. The staff will maintain the movement register and wildlife monitoring register which will be subject to frequent inspection by Assistant Wildlife Warden and Wildlife Warden.

Fig.11: Existing and proposed infrastructure in MSNP Frequent special ganja raids may also be arranged by the Wildlife Warden / Asst. Wildlife Warden. The ganja destroyed may be co-related with vegetation types on images of satellite/google and develop a key for ganja cultivated areas in the forest. The Wildlife Warden will supply topo sheets with demarcated boundaries for MSNP to the Dy. Range Officer and other staff working in the area.

47 6.4.1.4. Staff welfare activities

The Wildlife Warden will have meetings with the staff and include the staff amenities items in the APO funded by Government of India. At present the Govt. of India is providing staff welfare inputs like residential accommodation for the childrens of frontline staff in nearby town/villages, supply of kerosene, medicine, field kit, mosquito net, torch, etc.

6.4.1.5. Infrastructure related to protection

Arms and ammunitions

At present the staff don’t have arms and ammunitions, hence two guns are proposed to be procured with necessary ammunition minimum (50 Nos.).

Communication facilities

At present there is no wireless communications, it is proposed a main wireless set and two walkie talkies may be procured and supplied to staff stationed at Peythotty and two walkie talkies for staff stationed near Aduvilanthankudy.

Anti poaching shed

Three anti poaching sheds, two at Surveykkalpara and one at Sivanpara are already existing. There is no proposal for any new anti poaching shed.

Vehicle

At present the Assistant Wildlife Warden have a vehicle with head quarter at Top Station and the same is used for the protection of Anaimudy shola NP, Pambadam shola NP, Mathikettan shola NP and Kurinjimala WLS. It is proposed that a jeep with a wireless set and a bike may be procured for Mathikettan shola NP.

6.4.1.6. Roads and Trekpath

Road

A fair weather road from entrance of the park to Aduvilathankudy is existing at present. This needs annual maintenance. No new road is proposed during the plan period. The

48 existing road from Pethotty to park entrance is to be developed in to a tarred road which is out side park.

Trekpath

Trek paths (listed in Table 10) with a total length 46.2 km are existing at present in the National Park.

Table.10: Existing Trekpaths in MSNP

1 Check post to Njandar 3.50 Km 2 Mannakudy to Vellappara 2.00 Km 3 Checkpost to Thondimala 5.50 Km 4 Checkpost to Koranpara 2.00 Km 5 Pethotty to Checkpost 3.50 Km 6 Checkpost to Kattumala 4.00 Km 7 Checkpost to Kudy 5.50 Km 8 Kurisukavala to Mannakudy 3.20 Km 9 Karippara to Kattumala 5.00 Km 10 Checkpost to Dhalam 3.00 Km 11 Sukumarankadu to Thondimala 3.00 Km 12 Vellakalappara to Mannakudy 3.00 Km 13 Vellakalppara to Jameskadu 3.00 Km Total 46.20 km The existing trek paths need review and annual maintenance. No new trek paths are proposed during the plan period.

6.4.1.7. Check post and chain gate

There is no public traffic passing through the NP, it is proposed to put chain and lock system at the entry points on the Peythotty and Aduvilathankudy coupe road.

6.4.1.8. Uniforms and Field Equipments

It is proposed to procure field equipments such as Tents, Compass, GPS, Binoculars, Range finder, Digital camera, Rain Gauge, Thermometer, Hygrometer, Camera trap, field kits, etc.

6.4.1.9. Protection along the Inter state boundary

The Wildlife Warden will take steps to prevent spreading of fire, poaching and other illegal activities from the adjoining state through periodic interaction, joint patrolling,

49 sharing information on smugglers, joint raids, etc. Activities like annual Inter state boundary clearance, annual joint inspection of the boundary may also be taken up.

6.4.1.10. Strengthening intelligence

The Wildlife Warden, Assistant Wildlife warden and staff will develop liaison with NGOs, peoples’ representatives, EDC members Tribal Heads, interstate officers, Crime Control bureau officials, in sharing information. The informants may be paid suitably. The Wildlife Warden may move proposal for fixing the rewards to the informants depending on the type of crime and information. The legal support if any required may also be availed by the Wildlife Warden in special / serious cases.

The wildlife Warden may review and monitor the implementation of the protection plan.

6.4.2. Theme plan for Fire protection plan

Forest fire is the basic threat to the forest, which cause considerable damage to the flora and fauna in the area. The existing road, trekpaths, rivers, etc. may be considered while preparing fire plan. In order to protect the natural resources of the Park from fires, the following strategies and activities are proposed.

6.4.2.1. Fire lines

The Wildlife Warden will maintain the following fire lines in the fire prone areas.

1. Bodimettu-Njandar (Interstate) - 11.00 km 2. Njandar-Korampara - 9.00 km 3. Korampara-Bodimettu - 11.00 km 4. Company-Mannakudy - 3.00 km 5. Checkpost-Njandar - 5.00 km 6. Korampara-Thondimala - 6.00 km 7. Manankudy-Vellapara - 3.00 km 8. Lakshmikandam-Mannakudy - 2.00 km 9. Engineerkadu-Sundal - 6.00 km 10. Kurishukavala-Vellapara - 4.00 km 11. Mannakudy-Njandar - 3.00 km 12. Kudy-Kattumala - 3.00 km Total 66.00 km While taking the fire lines, the following precautions will be taken:

50 • No fire line should be taken on the edge of the shola forest. The fireline around the shola should be taken giving the reasonable space for the extension of shola forest.

• Scrapping of grass as fire break around sholas should be avoided. The system followed in Eravikulam NP by Muduvans for creation of fireline without scrapping may be followed.

6.4.2.2. Fire Watchers Camps

The fire watchers camps will be established at following vulnerable locations.

1. Checkpost area 2. Survey Kal Para 3. Sivan Para 4. Kudy area

The Wildlife Warden may ensure the engagement of fire watchers from the fringe area people, priority may be given to provide livelihood and employment to resource dependent communities.

6.4.2.3. Participatory Fire Management

The fringe area people from Aduvilangankudy, Sundal thondimala, Talakkulam, Korampara, Peythotti, Dalam and Njandar may be involved in Pariticipatory Fire Management. A microplan may be prepared for each settlement detailing the extent of area, people involved, benefit sharing, etc.

6.4.2.4. Awareness and Training

Wildlife Warden will arrange awareness and training for the staff and EDC members before the fire season every year. Awareness campaigns may be arranged for fringe area people on the impact of fires on forests. This may be done by mass involvement of people in procession, talks in nearby schools, display boards, street play, etc.

6.4.2.5. Construction of fire watchtowers and communication network

The fire watch towers may be erected at Sivan Para and Survey Kal Para. Any fire incident should be communicated to the headquarter at Peythotti for mobilizing the addional force for fire prevention.

51 6.4.2.6. Equipments to extinguish fire

The equipments like gum boots, fire resistant suit, etc may be procured and made available to the fire camps.

The Wildlife Warden may review the fire plan every year after the fire season. The gap in fire protection may be identified and suitable proposals may be made in the ensuing year to make MSNP total fire free.

6.4.3. Theme plan for water shed and water resources management

The utilization of habitat by the wild animals depends on the availability of water resources within their reach. The local people of Korampara, Muthupara, Chundal Thondimala etc also depend on the water discharged from the National Park for drinking and irrigation purposes. To provide judicious distribution of water sources for wildlife and to fulfill the water needs of the local people, following strategies and activities are proposed.

• The existing 12 check dams given in previous chapter may be maintained. The Wildlife Warden may also check the water quality annually in all the waterholes and check dams.

• Mapping of water sources – water holes, checkdams, streams and other natural sources with seasonality.

• Preparation of drainage map. The details available with Landuse Board on drainage and watershed may be collected and ground truthing may be done by the Wildlife Warden.

• Installation of meteorological stations for regular recording of weather data.

• Implementation of suitable measures for maintaining and improving watersheds – re-vegetation of habitats especially in restoration zone, soil and moisture conservation measures such as gully plugging, check dams, earthern bunds etc.

• Initiation of dialogue with local bodies and beneficiaries for water sharing and watershed conservation.

• Enhancement of water discharge capacity through habitat improvement activities. Wildlife Warden may prepare a Status Paper on water resources and seasonality and propose future development of water holes and checkdams /anicut accordingly.

52 CHAPTER 7 Tourism, Interpretation and Conservation Education

The main goal is to strengthen the cause of conservation in general and of the management of the PA concerned in particular through conservation oriented tourism. This can be achieved through (i) providing informed wilderness experience to visitors (ii) enabling the visitors to view a cross section of PA values.

The Tourism, Interpretation and Conservation Education zone will be overlapping with the restoration zone and buffer zone. The existing facilities related to environmental conservation awareness and nature based tourism are only the following.

1. Information Centre at Peythotty.

2. Amenity Centre at Peythotty.

Tourism, Interpretation and Conservation Education Zone

The Tourism, Interpretation and Conservation Education zone will be limited to the southern boundary of the Park and the coupe road from Peythotty to Aaduvilanthankudy.

Strategies and Activities 7.1. Environmental conservation awareness

· Develop a interpretation centre at Peythotty in collaboration with local bodies and NGOs

· Improve and maintain the road from Peythotty to the entrance of Park (3 kms)

· Create a post of Wildlife Assistant at Division level.

· Develop education materials for various target groups- leaflets, brochures, pamphlets, posters, movies, etc

· Conduct nature awareness camps for various target groups including people on the fringe.

53 · Procure equipments such as computer, LCD projector etc for conducting nature education camps effectively.

· Create a website

· Develop appropriate hoarding and signage and display at strategic locations.

7.2. Nature-based regulated tourism

· Engage trained resource persons through Anamudi FDA

· Capacity building & training to guides and staff on human behaviour, identification of flora and fauna (butterflies, birds, animal evidences etc)

· Procure adequate equipments to be given to tourists on rent (binoculars, leech proof socks, tents, sleeping bags, solar lights, torches etc.)

· Create awareness among local communities / visitors to park

· Legal Enforcement with fine to control littering of National Park.

· Involvement of EDCs in removal of plastics as part of mutual commitment.

· Ensure support of local bodies in waste management in Ecosensitive and crucial corridor area.

· Develop dissemination mechanisms on tourism packages available through creation of a website

· Develop appropriate nature based tourism packages considering protection of PA and ensuring livelihood security of dependant community and PA management

· Identify and initiate dialogues with tour operators and formulate benefit sharing mechanisms

· Move proposal for recycling entry fee

· Prepare site specific microplan with baseline information and conduct annual impact assessment through participatory process.

The Wildlife Warden will conduct annual review of environmental conservation awareness programmes and nature-based regulated tourism activities.

54 CHAPTER 8 Ecodevelopment

The problems related to people-PA interface are human-Wildlife (elephant, boar) Conflict at Peythotty, Thondimala, Dalam, Korampara, Thalakkulam, Bodimettu, Njandar, lack of information on the extent of conflict, lack of proper waste disposal strategy by local body especially at Chinnakkanal area, lack of ecodevelopment programmes, lack of funds for implementing ecodevelopment programme, inadequate support team for implementing ecodevelopment programmes, absence of information on needs and natural and cultural resources of local and ethnic communities (Muthuvans) and lack of training to staff.

8.1. To strengthen the People-PA interface, the following strategies and activities are proposed.

· Declaration of crucial corridors of elephants as Conservation Reserve / Community Reserve / Protection Zones to regulate land use in tune with the management objectives

· Improvement of habitat of the crucial corridors

· Development of appropriate barriers to prevent wildlife entering the farmlands (elephant proof trench, solar power fence etc)at Peythotti, Thondimala, Dalam, Korampara, Thalakulam, Bodimettu and Njandar. Wildlife Warden may involve the people in the future maintenance of solar power fence.

· Timely assessment of wildlife damages and payment of compensation

· Institution of crop insurance

· Undertaking appropriate habitat improvement programmes within the Park for improving the availability of forage and water.

· Development of a waste management strategy by the local body in crucial corridor / habitat connectivity areas.

55 · Studying the extent of the wildlife damage problem including the wildlife and crops involved

· Constitution of EDCs and designing appropriate site-specific ecodevelopment programmes

· Seeking funds from various sources (Local bodies / other line departments/ Govt. of India) through FDA

· Deployment of adequate trained support team including social workers /voluntary services for microplanning and collating data on socio-economic status of people.

· Identification of the needs /aspirations and natural and cultural resources of local community during microplanning.

· Identification of the potentials to be utilised for ensuring the livelihood security of local people – nature based tourism packages. The nature based tourism packages may be designed to provide livelihood security and protection of National Park.

· Imparting training to staff on microplanning, ecodevelopment concept, ecotourism including visit to other areas within the State and outside.

8.2. For regulating and control over grazing and NWFP collection, the following strategies are proposed

8.2.1. Grazing

o Study and monitor the number, extent and impact of grazing

o Reduce number of cattle by providing alternate livelihood and encourage stall feeding

o Ensure vaccination of cattle – twice a year

o Form an user-group EDC with access rules.

56 o Move proposal for notifying veterinary hospitals near PA as supporting agency.

8.2.2. NWFP collection

o Study the extent and impact of NWFP collection (honey, badraksham, telli, wild pepper, lichens, vines of passion fruits, kattu jathi,(endemic to CHR, Myristica beddomi usteolata) etc)

o Evolve scientific/ sustainable collection methods

o Provide training to EDC members for scientific/ sustainable collection of NWFP resources & value addition

o Define zone of collection and frame access rules for sustainable collection and phase out collection of telli, kattu jathi, kalpasham (lichens)

o Propose alternate livelihood to prevent unscientific/ unsustainable collection

o Encourage regeneration of NWFP & medicinal plant species placed in RED Data Book

o Promote planting of selected endemic NWFP species in the homesteads.

Grazing and collection of Natural resources for commercial purposes are prohibited in the National Park. At the same time the Tribal rights Act permit traditional rights of people. Wildlife Warden may review the Management Plan on settlement of rights under Tribal Right Act and declaration of Critical Wildlife Habitat.

57 CHAPTER 9 Research, Monitoring and Training

Research, monitoring and training are among the weakest areas in wildlife management. The need is acknowledged but there is very little progress. Research has mainly suffered due to lack of policy, clarity of objectives, priorities and therefore inadequate funding support; lack of adequate employment opportunities inclusive of reasonable career advancement prospects and therefore want of suitable personnel.

The area of the Park is part of CHR and was intensively used for cultivation of cardamom and coffee. Hence biodiversity conservation and research were not a priority objective and little information is available on these aspects. In order to accomplish the plan objectives, the following research, monitoring and training are proposed.

9.1. Research 1. Mapping of the extent of cardamom and coffee to restore the areas planted with cardamom and coffee within the Park. 2. Mapping of vegetation types 3. Study & monitor the number, extent and impact of grazing 4. Conduct studies to document the flora and fauna of the PA including RET and endemics 5. Study and document traditional knowledge of indigenous communities 6. Study on the habitat utilization and movement pattern (with radio telemetry) of elephants within and outside PA 7. Explore possibilities for reintroduction of locally extinct species (LTM). The reintroduction may be undertaken as per the IUCN guidelines. Experts in the relevant field like Dr. Ajith Kumar presently working in Centre for Wildlife Studies, may be involved in reintroduction process (the IUCN reintroduction protocol is appended as Annexure 5) 8. Study the extent and impact of NWFP collection (honey, badraksham, telli, wild pepper, lichens, vines of passion fruits, kattu jathi,(endemic to CHR, Myristica beddomi usteolata) etc)

58 9. Evolve scientific/ sustainable collection methods for NWFP management. 10. Study and identify invasive species that have negative impact on ecosystem 11. Study and identify the spatial and temporal distribution of water sources and generate maps. 12. Study the aspects of connectivity and corridor for movement of elephants 13. Studying the extent of the wildlife damage problem including the wildlife and crops involved. 9.2. Monitoring 1. Monitoring regeneration status and soil erosion 2. Regular wildlife health monitoring 3. Population monitoring of selected species of flora and fauna and annual census of wild animals. 4. Monitoring of intrusion and regeneration of invasive species 5. Monitoring of regeneration of natural species in the restoration zone. 6. Identify and monitor the special habitats/micro-habitats sch as talush, cliff, dens, caves, snags, old growth forests and riparian forests for future habitat management. 9.3. Training 1. Impart training to staff & EDC members on wildlife health monitoring 2. Provide training to EDC members for scientific/ sustainable collection of NWFP resources & value addition 3. Capacity building for staff in intelligence gathering, identifying wildlife article, acts and rules, etc. 4. Capacity building & training to guides and staff on ecotourism 5. Impart training to staff on wildlife census techniques 6. Training on wildlife evidences, collection of biological materials and their interpretation. 7. Training in weapon handling and maintenance. 8. Training on modern fire fighting.

59 CHAPTER 10 Organization and Administration

10.1. Structure The organizational structure of the Park is as shown below

Field Director

Wildlife Warden Munnar

Assistant Wildlife Warden, Shola Range

Dy.R.O, MSNP Forester

Forest Guards

10.2. Responsibilities

10.2.1. The MSNP will be headed by the Wildlife Warden who will have overall responsibility for the implementation of the Management Plan. The Wildlife Warden will develop a pocket field guide with schedule of operations for the implementation of management plan and supply it to Assistant Wildlife Warden, Dy. Range Officer and Section Forester.

10.2.2. The Wildlife Warden will make arrangements to supply the below mentioned control forms (Annexure 5) to the Assistant Wildlife Warden, Dy. Range Officer and Section Forester and compile the information about the Park.

FORM - 1 Creation of new artificial waterholes FORM - 2 Maintenance of waterholes : Natural FORM - 3 Maintenance of waterholes : Artificial FORM - 4 Restoration of habitat : weed control

60 FORM - 5 Restoration of habitat : Prescribed burning FORM - 6 Restoration of habitat : Soil Conservation measures – initial operations and subsequent maintenance FORM - 7 Restoration of habitat FORM - 8 Animals : Measuring trends in populations FORM - 9 Animals : New records FORM - 10 Animals : Mortality other than that attributable to an offence FORM - 11 Animals : Mortality attributed to poaching or an act of vandalism FORM - 12 Animals : Predation on domestic livestock by wild carnivores FORM - 13 Animals : Killing of a human by wildlife or injury caused FORM - 14 Animals : Wildlife damage to private or public property FORM - 15 Plants : New records FORM - 16 NWFP collection : Plants and other produce FORM - 17 Grazing of domestic livestock FORM - 18 Inter-agency programmes : Agencies and schemes (Government) FORM - 19 Programmes of NGOs FORM - 20 Construction*/maintenance* of infrastructure : Roads and Bridges (*existing/new) FORM - 21 Construction*/maintenance* of infrastructure : buildings (*existing/new) FORM - 22 Development*/maintenance* of infrastructure : communication (*existing/new) FORM - 23 Development*/maintenance* of infrastructure : vehicles (*existing/new) FORM - 24 Developing infrastructure : construction of boundaries, Fences, FORM - 25 Developing infrastructure : firelines (*existing/new) FORM - 26 Tourism FORM - 27 Outbreak of fires FORM - 28 Offence cases detected FORM - 29 Incentives and awards FORM - 30 Research projects under implementation through PA manpower with or without collaboration with other agencies FORM - 31 Survey and inventories FORM - 32 The Monitoring Programme FORM - 33 Ecodevelopment

10.2.3. The Wildlife Warden, Munnar will prepare Annual Plan of Operations and Schedule of Operations every year in the first week of April.

10.2.4. The Wildlife Warden may not deviate from the Management Plan prescriptions without the prior permission in writing of the Chief Wildlife Warden.

61 BUGET FOR MATHIKETTAN SHOLA NATIONAL PARK

Para of Financial Requirement Sl. Management Activity Total No. 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Plan Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year 1 6.1.1 Survey of boundaries and construction of cairns 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 5.00 2 6.1.2 Study on elephant movements & connectivity 2.00 1.00 3.00 3 6.1.2 Meeting with stakeholders 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 1.80 4 6.3.2 Mapping the extent of cardamom and coffee 1.00 1.00 Removal of cardamom and coffee on experiment 5 6.3.2 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 base 6 6.3.2 Assisting regeneration of indegenous species 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 18.00 Establishment of permanent plots and 7 6.3.2 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 monitoring succession & eco-restoration Monitoring the utilization of coffee barriers by 8 6.3.2 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 2.50 wild animals Wildlife attack preventive measures - Power 9 6.3.4 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 50.00 fence/Elephant Proof Trench 10 6.3.4 Compensation to victims of wildlife attack 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 Promoting forage species in eco-restoration 11 6.3.4 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 zone. 12 6.3.4 Study human wildlife conflict 1.00 1.00 2.00 Salary of Dy. Range Officer, 1 Forester & 4 13 6.4.1.1 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 70.00 Forest Guards 14 6.4.1.2 Construction of Foresters quarter at Peythotty 6.00 6.00 Improvement of two camp sheds at 15 6.4.1.2 2.00 2.00 Aduvilanthankudy 16 6.4.1.2 Engaging protection mazdoors (6 Nos.) 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 30.00 17 6.4.1.3 Ganja raids 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 5.00 House rent for residential accomodation for 18 6.4.1.4 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 2.00 childrens of frontline staff Supply of kerosene, field kit, mosquito net, 19 6.4.1.4 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 torches to staff 20 6.4.1.5 Purchase of 1 Rifle and ammunition 1.00 1.00

62 Para of Financial Requirement Sl. Management Activity Total No. 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Plan Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Purchase and maintenance of wireless set and 21 6.4.1.5 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 6.00 walkie-talkie 22 6.4.1.5 Purchase of 1 Jeep & 1 Bike and maintenance 5.00 1.50 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 12.50 23 6.4.1.6 Maintenance of roads 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 20.00 24 6.4.1.6 Tarring road from Peythotty to entrance of Park 30.00 30.00 25 6.4.1.6 Maintenace of trek paths 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 30.00 26 6.4.1.7 Erection of Chaingates 2 Nos. 0.40 0.40 Purchase of equipments - Tents, Compass, GPS, 27 6.4.1.8 Binoculars, Range Finder, Digital Camera, 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 10.00 Camera Trap, Field Kit 28 6.4.1.9 Clearance of Interstate Boundary 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 29 6.4.1.10 Intelligence gathering and rewards to informers 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 3.00 30 6.4.1.10 Legal support in special cases. 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 2.00 31 6.4.2.1 Creation of firelines. 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 30.00 32 6.4.2.2 Engaging fire watchers during fire season 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 15.00 33 6.4.2.3 Participatory Fire Management 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 15.00 34 6.4.2.4 Awareness to Staff & EDC during fire season. 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 2.00 Fire Watch Towers 2 Nos. (Sivan Para, Survey 35 6.4.2.5 1.00 1.00 2.00 Kalpara) Purchase of fire fighting equipments (gum 36 6.4.2.6 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 2.50 boots, fire resistant suit etc.) Maintenance & creation of water holes / check 37 6.4.3 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 20.00 dams. Mapping of water resources and preparation of 38 6.4.3 0.50 0.50 drainage map. 39 6.4.3 Installation of meteogological station 0.50 0.50 0.50 1.50 Soil & moisture conservation measures (Gully 40 6.4.3 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 20.00 Plugging, Bunds) 41 7.1 Construction of Information Centre at Peythotty. 10.00 10.00 20.00 42 7.1 Education & awareness materials. 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 5.00 43 7.1 Awareness camps 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00

63 Para of Financial Requirement Sl. Management Activity Total No. 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Plan Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Procurement of LCD, Computer for awareness 44 7.1 1.00 0.50 1.50 campaigns 45 7.1 Creation of websites. 0.20 0.20 46 7.1 Erection of signages at strategic location 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 5.00 Engaging a resource person for awareness and 47 7.2 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 9.00 nature based tourism through Anaimudi FDA 48 7.2 Training to staff and guides on Tourism 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 2.00 Purchase of solar lights, torches, sleeping bags, 49 7.2 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 tents, binoculars etc. 50 7.2 Preparation of microplans for tourism packages 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 2.00 Habitat improvement works for improving the 51 8.1 water and forage availabitlity within and outside 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 20.00 in corridors. Constitution of EDCs and preparation of 52 8.1 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 microplans 53 8.1 Ecodevelopment activities (as per microplan) 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 20.00 Training to staff on ecodevelopment, 54 8.1 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 3.00 microplanning and visits to other sites. 55 8.2.1 Study the impacts of grazing 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.60 56 8.2.1 Vaccination of cattle 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 2.50 57 8.2.1 Study the extent and impact of NWFP collection 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.60 Training on scientific collection of NWFP & 58 8.2.2 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.90 value addition Regeneration of NWFP & medicinal plants in 59 8.2.2 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 9.00 RED Data Book 60 8.2.2 Planting of NWFP species in Homesteads 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 4.50 61 9.1.2 Mapping vegetation type in the National Park 2.00 2.00 Document flora & fauna including RET & 62 9.1.4 2.00 2.00 Endemics Study & document on traditional knowledge of 63 9.1.5 0.50 0.50 indigenous communites 64 9.1.7 Study and reintroduction of LTM 2.00 3.00 2.00 7.00

64 Para of Financial Requirement Sl. Management Activity Total No. 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Plan Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Year Study and identify invasive species that have 65 9.1.1 0.50 0.50 1.00 negative impacts on ecosystem 66 9.2.1 Monitoring regeneration status and soil erosion 0.50 0.50 0.50 1.50 67 9.2.2 Wildlife health monitoring 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 68 9.2.3 Wildlife census 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 5.00 69 9.2.4 Identify and monitoring special habitat 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.60 Training to staff on weapon handling, fire 70 9.3 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 2.00 fighting, census tecnique etc. Chapter 6 & 71 Building maintenance 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 7 72 Chapter 6 Overhead and office expenses 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 5.00 TOTAL 93.10 84.20 84.15 61.75 60.15 56.75 56.75 55.75 55.75 55.75 664.10

Note: Wildlife Warden may sought funds from other sources (State Budget Head at present in operation)

65 Annexure 1 Notification of MSNP

GOVERNMENT OF KERALA Forest and Wildlife (F) Department NOTIFICATION GO (MS) No. 50/2003/F&WLD Dated, 10th October 2003

SRO No. 971/2003WHEREAS, the Government of Kerala consider that the area, the situation and limits of which are defined in the Schedule below is of great ecological, faunal, floral and geomorphological importance; AND WHEREAS, it appears to the Government of Kerala that the said area is needed to be constituted as a National Park for the purpose of protecting, propagating and developing the wildlife therein and its environment Now, THEREFORE, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 35 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (Central Act 53 of 1972), the Government of Kerala hereby declare their intention to constitute the said area as a National Park to be known as “MSNP”.

SCHEDULE District Idukki Taluk Udumbanchola Village Pooppara Extent 1281.7419 hectares

Situation and limits of the said area North: Boundary commences from the point were the interstate boundary between Kerala and Tamil Nadu meets the southern boundary of survey No. 32 Pooppara Village of the resurvey minor circuit and runs west parallel to Bodimettu - Pooppara road, along the southern boundary of survey No. 17, 16, 13, 14, 8 ,22 and hence turning south along the eastern boundary of block 13 and survey numbers 34, 35, 36, 37 and hence along the western boundary of survey No38 to reach a point where the northern most extremely of survey No. 38 meets the Resurvey Minor Circuit.

West: Thence the boundary turns south and follows the Resurvey Minor Circuit along the Eastern boundary of block No. 13 till it meets the Northern boundary of survey No. 65 and turn south along the Eastern boundary of survey No. 65 till it meets the boundary of survey No. 64 on the line democratizing the area handed over after eviction.

South: Thence the boundary turns east along the Northern boundary of survey No. 64, 63 and turns south along the Eastern boundary of survey No. 78, 71, 72, 73, 74, 174, 192, 193, 195, 197 and turn south along the eastern boundary of survey no. 198, 199 and again turns north East along the Northern boundary of survey No. 205, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212 to meet the interstate boundary.

East: Thence the boundary runs north along the interstate boundary till it reaches the starting point. By Order of the Governor,

LIZZIE JACOB Principal Secretary to Government

66 Explanatory Note

(This is not a part of the notification but is intended to indicate its general purpose)

Mathikettan area is part of the Cradamom Hill Reserve (CHR), notified in the Travancore Government Gazette dated the 24the August, 1897, wherein the area was constituted as a Reserve Forest under Section 18 of Regulation II of 1068. Subsequently various Government Orders/ Rules, were issued for assigning the CHR area for Cardamom cultivation, as well as regarding the control over the land and trees.

The provisions contained in G.O.(Ms)No. 804/58/Rev. dated the 9th August 1958 were being followed for the management of the CHR area, thereby control over the land rests with the Revenue Department, and control over the tree growth with the Forest Department. Hence there was a dual control over the CHR areas. Subsequently, vide G.O.(Ms) No. 328/2002/RD dated the 17th October, 2002, Government have transferred 1281.7419 hectares of the said land to the administrative control of Forest Department. Considering the unique nature of the Shola forests in Mathikettan and its importance as an elephant corridor, the State Wildlife Advisory Board has recommended to declare the area as a National Park.

Government funds it necessary to declare the area as a National Park for protecting its ecological, faunal, floral and geomorphological wealth. Therefore, the Government have decided to declare its intention to constitute the said area as a National Park. This notification is intended to achieve the above subject.

67 Annexure 2

Trees, Shrubs, Herbs of MSNP

Trees 1. Acronychia pedunculata (L.) Miq. 2. Actinodaphne sp. 3. Actinodaphne tadulingamii Gamble 4. Alseodaphne semecarpifolia Nees 5. Antidesma menasu (Tul.) Miq. ex Muell.-Arg. 6. Aphanamixis polystachya (Wall.) Parker 7. Archidendron clypearia (Jack) Nielson 8. Beilschmiedia wightii (Nees) Benth. ex Hook. f. 9. Bhesa indica (Bedd.) Ding Hou 10. Calophyllum austroindicum Kosterm. ex Stevens 11. Canarium strictum Roxb. 12. Psydrax umbellata (Wight) Bridson 13. philippensis Blanco var. wightii (Planch.) Soep. 14. Chionanthus ramiflorus Roxb. 15. Cinnamomum sp. 16. Cinnamomum sulphuratum Nees 17. Cryptocarya beddomei Gamble 18. Diospyros sp. 19. Dysoxylum ficiforme (Wight) Gamble 20. Elaeocarpus munronii (Wight) Mast. 21. Elaeocarpus tuberculatus Roxb. 22. Euonymus crenulatus Wall. ex Wight & Arn. 23. Eurya nitida Korth. 24. Ficus laevis Blume var. macrocarpa (Miq.) Corner 25. Ficus arnottiana (Miq.) Miq. 26. Ficus beddomei King 27. Ficus microcarpa L. f. 28. Glochidion ellipticum Wight 29. Gomphandra coriacea Wight 30. Gordonia obtusa Wall.ex Wight & Arn. 31. Hydnocarpus alpina Wight 32. Ilex denticulata Wall. ex Wight 33. Isonandra montana (Thw.) Gamble 34. Leptonychia caudata (Wall. ex G. Don) Burrett 35. Ligustrum perrottetii A. DC. 36. Litsea wightiana (Nees) Hook. f. 37. Macaranga peltata (Roxb.) Muell.-Arg. 38. Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muell.-Arg. 39. Mastixia arborea (Wight) Bedd. 40. Meliosma pinnata (Roxb.) Maxim. ssp. barbulata (Cufod.) Beus. 41. Michelia nilagirica Zenk. 42. Microtropis ramiflora Wight 43. Neolitsea scrobiculata (Meisner) Gamble 44. Nostolachma crassifolia (Gamble) Deb & Lahiri 45. Nothopegia beddomei Gamble 46. Persea macrantha (Nees) Kosterm.

68 47. Phoebe lanceolata Nees 48. Pittosporum tetraspermum Wight & Arn. 49. Prunus ceylanica (Wight) Miq. 50. Rhododendron arboreum J. E. Smith ssp. nilagiricum (Zenk.) Tagg. 51. Schefflera wallichiana (Wight & Arn.) Harms 52. Scleropyrum pentandrum (Dennst.) Mabb. 53. Symplocos cochinchinensis (Lour.) Moore ssp. laurina Nooteb. 54. Syzygium calophyllifolium Walp. 55. Syzygium gardneri Thw. 56. Syzygium hemisphericum (Wight) Alston 57. orientalis (L.) Blume 58. Turpinia cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr. 59. Vaccinium leschenaultii Wight 60. Vernonia arborea Buch.-Ham. 61. Viburnum punctatum Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don 62. Wendlandia thyrsoidea (Schult.) Steud. 63. Xantolis tomentosa (Roxb.) Rafin.

Herbs and Shrubs 1. Abutilon persicum (Burm.f.) Merr. 2. Achyranthes bidentata Blume 3. Aeschynanthus perrottetii A.DC. 4. Ageratina adenophora (Spreng.) King & Robins. 5. Alpinia abundiflora Burtt & R.M. Smith 6. Belosynapsis vivipara (Dalz.) Fischer 7. Bryonopsis sp. 8. Bulbophyllum sterile (Lam.) Suresh 9. Christisonia tubulosa (Wight) Benth. ex Hook. f. 10. Chrysopogon hackelii (Hook.f.) Fischer 11. Clausena anisata (Willd.) Hook.f. ex Benth. 12. Clerodendrum serratum (L.) Moon 13. Clerodendrum viscosum Vent. 14. Coelogyne breviscapa Lindl. 15. Commelina clavata Clarke 16. Cymbidium aloifolium (L.) Sw. 17. Debregeasia longifolia (Burm. f.) Wedd. 18. Dendrobium macrostachyum Lindl. 19. Digitaria sp. 20. Elatostema lineolatum Wight 21. Eragrostis unioloides (Retz.) Nees ex Steud. 22. Eria pseudoclavicaulis Blatt. & McCann 23. Hedyotis leschenaultiana DC. 24. Hoya ovalifolia Wight & Arn. 25. Huperzia macrostachys (Hook. ex Spring) Holub 26. Centella asiatica (L.) Urban 27. Hypericum mysurense Heyne ex Wight & Arn. 28. Impatiens hensloviana Arn. 29. Isachne setosa Fischer 30. Kedrostis courtallensis (Arn.) Jeffrey 31. Lasianthus acuminatus Wight 32. Lasianthus venulosus (Wight & Arn.) Wight

69 33. Lobelia nicotianifolia Roth ex Roem. & Schult. 34. Maesa indica (Roxb.) DC. 35. Medinilla beddomei Clarke 36. Medinilla malabarica Bedd. 37. Memecylon lawsonii Gamble 38. Nephrolepis auriculata (L.) Trimen 39. Oberonia chandrasekharanii Nair et al. 40. Oberonia santapaui Kapad. 41. Peperomia tetraphylla (G.Forst.) Hook. & Arn. 42. Physalis peruviana L. 43. Plantago erosa Wall. 44. Pogostemon paniculatus (Willd.) Benth. 45. Polygala arillata Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don 46. Polygonum chinense L. 47. Pothos thomsonianus Schott 48. Psychotria anamalayana Bedd. 49. Psychotria nilgiriensis Deb & Gangop. 50. Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn 51. Pteris quadriaurita Retz. 52. Remusatia vivipara (Roxb.) Schott 53. Scleria rugosa R. Br. 54. Senecio intermedius Wight 55. Setaria palmifolia (Koenig) Stapf 56. Shuteria involucrata (Wall.) Wight & Arn. 57. Sirhookera lanceolata (Wight) O. Ktze. 58. Smilax wightii A. DC. in A. & C. DC. 59. Solanum torvum Sw. 60. Striga asiatica (L.) O. Ktze. 61. Strobilanthes kunthianus (Nees) Anders. ex. Benth. 62. Strobilanthes luridus Wight 63. Viola pilosa Blume

Climbers 1. Clematis gouriana Roxb. ex DC. 2. Derris brevipes (Benth.) Baker 3. Embelia ribes Burm. f. 4. Jasminum rottlerianum Wall. ex A. DC. 5. Passiflora leschenaultii DC. 6. Piper hymenophyllum Miq. 7. Piper mullesua Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don 8. Rubia cordifolia L. 9. Rubus fairholmianus Gard. 10. Rubus niveus Thunb. 11. Tetrastigma nilagiricum (Miq.) B. V. Shetty 12. Thunbergia mysorensis (Wight) Anders. 13. Toddalia asiatica (L.) Lam. 14. Tylophora mollissima Wight & Arn. 15. Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek var. sublobata (Roxb.) Verdc

70 Annexure 3

RET Flora of Mathikettan Shola NP

1. Actinodaphne campanulata Hook.f. (Lauraceae). Tree, rare. 2. Allophyllus concanicus Gopalan (Sapindaceae). Shurb, rare. 3. Anaphyllum wightii Schott (Araceae). Herb, threatened. 4. Anisochilus sericeus Benth (Labiatae). Herb, possibly extinct. 5. Ardisia blatteri Gamble (Myrsinaceae). Shrub, possibly extinct. 6. Arisaema barnesii Fischer (Araceae). Herb, threatened. 7. Ardisia sonchifolia Mez. (Myrsinaceae). Shrub, rare. 8. Begonia albo-coccinia Hook.f. (Begoniaceae). Herb, vulnerable. 9. Belosynapsis vivipara Sprag. & Fischer (Commelinaceae). Herb, endangered. 10. Bulbophyllum aureum Sm. (Ochidaceae). Epiphytic herb, threatened. 11. B. fusco-purpureum Wt. (Orchidaceae). Epiphytic herb, threatened. 12. Casearia rubescens Dalz. (Flacourtiaceae) Tree, possibly extinct. 13. Coffea crassifolia Gamble (Rubiaceae) 14. Crotalaria clarkei Gamble (). Shrub, threatened. 15. Dendrobium haemoglossum Thw. (Orchidaceae). Ep. Herb, threatened. 16. Didymocarpus fischeri Gamble (Gesneriaceae). Herb, vulnerable. 17. Diplocentrum congestum Wt. (Orchidaceae) Herb, possibly extinct. 18. Dysoxylum beddomei Hern (Meliaceae). Tree, vulnerable. 19. D. ficiforme Gamble (Meliaceae). Tree, rare. 20. Embelia adnata Bedd. (Myrsinaceae). Climber, vulnerable. 21. Euonymus paniculatus Wt. ex Laws. (Celastraceae). Shrub, endangered. 22. Exacum anamalayanam Bedd. (Gentianaceae). Herb, rare. 23. Glochidion bourdillonii Gamble (Euphorbiaceae). Tree, rare. 24. Hoya wightii Hook.f. (Asclepiadaceae) Epiphytic herb, threatened. 25. Impatiens leptura Hook.f. (Balsaminaceae) Herb, endangered. 26. Isonandra stocksii Cl. (). Tree, endangered. 27. Kunstleria keralensis Moh. & Nair (Fabaceae). Climber, rare. 28. Lasianthus strigillosus Hook.f. (Rubiaceae) Shrub, vulverable. 29. Medinella malabarica Bedd. (Melastomataceae). Ep. Herb, vulverable. 30. Octotropis travancorica Bedd. (Rubiaceae) Shrub, rare. 31. Peucedanum anamalayense Cl. (Apiaceae) Herb, endangered. 32. Plectranthus rivularis Wt. ex Hook.f. (Labiatae). Herb, critical. 33. Pogostemon travancoricus Bedd. (Labiatae). Herb, vulverable. 34. Psychotria anamalayana Bedd. (Rubiaceae). Shrub, rare. 35 Sonerila grandiflora R. Br. ex Wt. & Arn. (Melastomataceae). Herb, rare. 36. Vernonia salvifolia Wt. (Asteraceae). Shrub, endangered.

71 Annexure 4

Avifauna of MSNP

Sl. No. Bird Species Scientific Name 1 Grey Jungle Fowl Gallus sonneratii 2 White cheeked Barbet Megalaima viridis 3 Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis 4 Malabar parakeet Psittacula columboides 5 Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba 6 Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela 7 Black Eagle Ictinaetus malayensis 8 Rufous bellied Eagle Hieraaetus kienerii 9 Changeable Hawk eagle Spizaetus cirrhatus 10 Large billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos 11 Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus flammeus 12 Greater Racket tailed Drongo Dicrurus paradiseus 13 Malabar Whistling Thrush Myiophonus horsfieldii 14 White bellied Blue flycatcher Cyornis pallipes 15 Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata 16 Hill Myna Gracula religiosa 17 Velvet fronted Nuthatch Sitta frontalis 18 Red whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus 19 Yellow browed bulbul Iole indica 20 Black Bulbul Hypsipetes leucocephalus 21 Oriental white eye Zosterops palpebrosa 22 Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus sp. 23 Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides 24 Nilgiri Laughing Thrush Garrulax cachinnans 25 Purple rumped Sunbird Nectarinia zeylonica 26 Grey wagtail Motacilla caspica 27 Speckled Piculet Picumnus innominatus

72 Annexure 5 IUCN reintroduction guidelines

73 74 75 76 77 78 Annexure 6 List of Control forms

FORM - 1 Creation of new artificial waterholes

Sl. No Category year Location Cost Performance 1 2 3 4 5 6

Note : Category : Masonry anicut, earthen bund, lined depression, borewell and pump, reservoir, spring fed, tanker fed, guzzler, aquifer; permanent or temporary Location : By compartment or by a named feature and name given if any Performance : Successful, partially successful, failure (give reasons for the latter two)

FORM - 2 Maintenance of waterholes: Natural

Sl. Perennial or Nature Category Location Year Cost Performance No seasonal of work 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Category : Spring, seep, natural depression, a flowing stretch, reservoir Location : By compartment or by a named feature and name given if any Nature of work: Desilting, provision of apron, any other category Performance : Successful, partially successful, failure (give reasons for the latter two)

FORM - 3 Maintenance of waterholes: Artificial

Sl. Perennial or Nature Category Location Year Cost Performance No seasonal of work 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Category : Masonry anicut, earthern bund, lined depression, borewell and pump, spring fed, guzzler, aquifer etc. Location : By compartment or by a named feature and name given if any Year : Year of maintenance, with year of establishment in parenthesis. Nature of work: Desilting, grouting, repairing leaks, repair to mechanical parts, closing anicut openings, any other work Performance : Successful, partially successful, failure (give reasons for the latter two)

FORM - 4 Restoration of habitat: weed control

Location & name Extent of Species Opera- Total Cost Sl. No Year Remarks of site area(ha) of weed tion cost /ha 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Note : Location : By compartment, site name or land feature Operation : Uprooting, cutting, burning, ploughing, manual or by using animals or machinery Remarks : Measure of success and or problem faced.

79 FORM - 5 Restoration of habitat: Prescribed burning Location & Extent of Area Total Sl. No Year Period Cost / ha Remarks name of site area(ha) treated(ha) cost 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Note : Location : By compartment or name of site Period : Date of starting operation and completion Remarks : Mention resultant structure e.g. a mosaic, % burnt, % intact problems encountered in conducting the operation – e.g. fire escape. FORM - 6 Restoration of habitat: Soil Conservation measures – initial operations and subsequent maintenance Location & name Extent of Area Opera- Total Cost / Sl. No Year Remarks of site area(ha) treated(ha) tions cost ha 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Note : Location : By compartment, name of site or landmarks Extent of area : Total area identified for such treatment. In case of streams or gullies, the length involved Area treated : If linear feature then quote length; otherwise area. Operation : Structures involved such as gully plugs, trench-cum-mound, terracing, spurs and bunds etc. quote quantity nos. and cmt. of earthwork. Remarks : Mention if initial work or maintenance. FORM - 7 Restoration of habitat Regulations or Extent of Description Sl. No Location Year protection Response Remarks area(ha) of site measures 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Location : By compartment or landmarks Description : % tree, shrub, ground cover, main species, impact of factors causing perturbations. Regulations & : Social fencing, power or other kind of fencing, enforced protection by protection measures patrolling, fire protection etc. Response : To be recorded annually. Consider trend of regeneration, vegetation cover, change in structure and composition, wildlife use index. Remarks : Site problems or any other useful information, including alternatives if area being used by people for specific purposes. FORM - 8 Animals: Measuring trends in populations Population Adult Sub-adults Fa Re- Sl. Year- Tot Species estimation Fe- Fe- wn Cubs mar No. Male Male lings al methodology male male s ks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Note : Population estimation : e.g. pugmark, line transect, scan, roadside counts etc., area covered, sampling intensity, data treatment, extrapolation where involved. In case of indices of density or dung count mentions those figures under the remarks column; use details as pertinent. Describe age classes for each species. Remarks : Operational problems, protection problems, any other useful information. Indices of density or dung count details to be recorded here

80 FORM - 9 Animals: New records Details of How Habitat Sl. No Species Location Year number, age Remarks discovered description sex 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Animal will include vertebrates and invertebrates How discovered : Sighting, dead specimen, reliability of sighting, captured specimen, incontrovertible other evidence No., age, sex etc : As applicable to vertebrates Habitat description : Broad habitat description such as vegetation, and elements such as water, large old trees, den trees, snags, down log material. Use microhabitat descriptors only if relevant Remarks : Any other useful information FORM - 10 Animals: Mortality other than that attributable to an offence Sex Cause of Sl. How Species Location Year and Number mortality Remarks No discovered age 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Note : Location : By compartment, landmark etc. Sex and age : As per parameters for age class. Sex, if possible to identify. How discovered : Carcass, complete or partial. Skull or any other recognizable remains collected where only some remains of an animal are found. Cause of mortality : If known e.g. territorial fight, accident, possible disease (following postmortem results),old age cause difficult to determine, predation etc. Remarks : Any other useful information FORM - 11 Animals: Mortality attributed to poaching or an act of vandalism Cause of mortality, number, sex Sl. No Species Location Remarks age class 1 2 3 4 5

Note : Location : By compartment or landmarks. Cause of mortality : Whether the animal was intact or remains found, article or trophy to be recorded. Cause if known eg. animal snared, shot or poisoned etc. Remarks : Any other useful information, especially matters of illegal trade. FORM - 12 Animals: Predation on domestic livestock by wild carnivores Category Compen- Re- Sl. Loca- Num Carnivore No. of cases Range Month of livestock sation paid ma No tion bers involved undecided killed (Rs.) rks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Note : Category of live- : Buffalo, cow, bullock (adult, sub-adult, calf), camel, horse, donkey, stock killed sheep, goat, poultry etc. Location : Comptt. no. or landmark where killed and the village of the owner Carnivore involved : Indicate species responsible for the kill if identity is confirmed No. of cases undecided : Either in progress or dropped. Remarks : Record observations like - attended or unattended animal, killed in forest or waterhole or in the pen/shed, field and whether kill was in area closed to livestock trespass.

81 FORM - 13 Animals: Killing of a human by wildlife or injury caused No. of Location, No. of Location, Com- Sl. No. of people circum- people circum- pensa- Range Month No incidents killed, age stances & injured, stances & tion & sex species age & sex species (Rs.) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Note : Location, circumstances : Location by comptt no., the village to which the person belongs and a description of the site and and species activity such as – open grassy patch, cutting grass; or under a mahua tree collecting flowers ets. Mention species on proof.

FORM - 14 Animals: Wildlife damage to private or public property Sl. The category Extent of Species involved Range Month Remarks No of property damage and number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Note : Location : By comptt. no., village survey no., name of village or landmark. Category of property : eg. agriculture field-wheat, huts in a village, any kind of vehicle. Extent of damage : Crop damage by area, estimated loss of produce and monetary loss. Similar yardsticks for other items like partial or total destruction of huts and belongings with estimated monetary loss Remarks : Any relevant information or circumstances eg. a wild elephant was provoked by people.

FORM - 15 Plants: New records Revenue Free of Agency involved Sl. Kind of Range Species Quantity realized change Local Outsider No produce (Rs.) quantity people s 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Kind of produce : Mention name, can be biological or geomorphic in origin Species : If applicable Quantity : Use the appropriate unit Local people : Applies to people within TUZ & ZI (buffer). This return normally applies to TUZ & buffer. If practice exists within the PA, make a special mention.

FORM - 16 NWFP Collection: Plants and other produce Year: Sl. The category Extent of Species involved Range Month Remarks No of property damage and number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Note : Location : By comptt. no., village survey no., name of village or landmark. Category of property : eg. Agriculture field-wheat, huts in a village, any kind of vehicle. Extent of damage : Crop damage by area, estimated loss of produce and monetary loss. Similar yardsticks for other items like partial or total destruction of huts and belongings with estimated monetary loss Remarks : Any relevant information or circumstances eg. a wild elephant was provoked by people.

82 FORM - 17 Grazing of domestic livestock Year: Village-wise Capacity of the Total cattle unit List of Sl. Grazing unit listed unit (cattle units) grazed villages in Remarks No. No. population of an number of the unit Legal Illegal cattle cattle grazed 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Remarks : (i) Mention number of cattle immunized against FMD, RP, anthrax as the case might be and the number of cattle without the prophylactic cover (ii) If grass is allowed to be cut for cattle being stall-fed, mention the village and number of such cattle. FORM - 18 Inter-agency programmes: Agencies and schemes (Government) Year: Number and name Physical and Sl. Name of Central Area and of scheme financial targets Remarks No. Agency or State location operated Given Achieved 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Name of the Scheme : To include all activities in the Govt. Sector, i.e. construction, use of resources, development processes etc. mention names of schemes, projects or normal operations. This will address all departments in the management area and those activities outside but capable of influencing the management area. Remarks : Success, adverse impacts, incompatibility with PA management objectives or failures should be mentioned. Detailed notes to go in the PA book. FORM - 19 Programmes of NGOs Year: Name Nature of Physical and Sl. HQ Area and of the scheme financial targets Remarks No. location location Agency operated Given Achieved 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Remarks : Success or adverse impacts, incompatibility with PA management objectives or failures should be mentioned. Detailed notes to go in the PA Book. These programmes and activities could be within the management area or those that are outside the management area but are capable of influencing the state of the management area – either complementing efforts or adversely impacting. FORM - 20 Construction*/maintenance* of infrastructure: Roads and Bridges (*existing/new) Year: Length Cross, drainage Sl. Name or Total cost Category Range Surface covered works, bridges No. number and status (km) with types 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Category of road : National/State highway, district road etc. public road or open only to managers should be stated Surface type : Block topped, metal, earth etc. Applies to roads.. Name or number : As the case may be. Cross drainage type : eg. for culverts – box, hume pipe culverts etc. Bridge type : Wooden trestle, suspension, metal multi span, masonry arch etc. Status : Work completed or ongoing. State also the agency responsibility; state whether operational or non-operational * : Strike out which is not applicable. Use separate forms as required; for construction and for maintenance details.

83 FORM - 21 Construction*/maintenance* of infrastructure: buildings (*existing/new) Year: Sl. Name of the Type of Range Location Numbers Total cost Status No. building construction 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Nature of the building : eg. residential(Guard), office, store, chauki, watch tower, tourist facility, hide, barrier, patrolling camp (temporary or permanent) etc. Location : the By compartment or village or landmark as appropriate. Type of construction : Masonry (brick/stone), log or wooden, metal, local material etc. Status : Completed or ongoing. * : Strike out which is not applicable. Use separate forms as required; for construction and for maintenance details.

FORM - 22 Development*/maintenance* of infrastructure: communication (*existing/new) Year: Sl. Name of Advantage Range Location Number Cost Remarks No. facility gained 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Type of facility : eg. telephone, wireless Location : Staff Hq location, village, landmark etc. Advantage gained : Area’s served, staff locations connected etc. Remarks : Record status – complete, ongoing, functional, non-functional.. * : Strike out that is not applicable. Use separate forms as required; for new facility and maintenance.

FORM - 23 Development*/maintenance* of infrastructure: vehicles (*existing/new) Year: Kind of Sl. No. Number HQ if any Intended use Cost Remarks vehicle 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Note : Kind of vehicle : Jeep, trailer, tractor, truck, minibus, tanker, motorcycle, bicycle, boat (paddle or motor), launch, car, riding elephant, ponies, etc. Intended use : Management support, patrolling/antipoaching, tourism etc. Remarks : Any other useful information. Mention written off vehicles, retired or dead animals. * : Strike out the inapplicable. Use separate forms as required to indicate acquisition, maintenance. FORM - 24 Developing infrastructure: construction of boundaries Fences, CPTs, EPTs, exclosures, enclosures (*existing/new) Year: Category of Length Sl. No. Range Location Numbers Specifications Remarks construction (meters) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Category : Kind of boundary eg. comptt, block, zone etc. In case of fences: power fence, others Location : By compartment or suitable landmark. Numbers : In case of exclosures, enclosures, number of pillars etc. as applicable. Specifications : As applicable to the construction: dry rubble, chain link, local material, height, area, depth, width etc. Remarks : Any other relevant information. * : Strike out that is inapplicable. Use a form each for maintenance of existing features and for new features.

84 FORM - 25 Developing infrastructure: firelines (*existing/new) Year: Sl. Fireline category Name of points Length Range Cost Remarks No. or width connected (meters) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Note : Category : Main or subsidiary etc. Record width * : Strike out that is inapplicable. Use one form each for maintenance of existing fireline and creation of new FORM – 26 Tourism Total number of visitors all categories : Year: Name of complex: Total revenue earned: The category of visitors by month & numbers No staying Indian No. Sl. Adult overnight Child- Foreig- days No. Rura and Month Male Female ren ners Urban Revenue visitors l revenue 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Note : Column 2 to 5 will be written in three successive lines for the month pertinent, one below the other. First line information pertains to foreign tourists. Put a tick(_/) in col. 6. Second and third line details rural and urban tourists respectively. Put a tick (_/) in Col. 7, Column 8 as applicable. FORM - 27 Outbreak of fires Year: Sl. Extent Dates Estimated Range Location Reasons Remarks No. (ha) Detected Controlled loss 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Location : By compartments Reasons : Established or suspected Estimated loss : eg. number of trees damaged, stacked firewood/timber/bamboo destroyed/damaged by volume and cost, wild animals dead, particulars of sensitive sites affected, other property or life destroyed. Remarks : State particularly problems encountered in detection and uppression and any other useful information. State also whether the extent of fire has been mapped. FORM – 28 Offence cases detected Year: Number of cases Number of Number of Sl. Range category Numbers decided cases under cases Remarks No. Successful Failure process compounded 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Category : eg. illegal cutting of trees, illegal firewood, illegal NWFP, poaching, encroachment, illegal cattle grazing etc. category be codified by letters of alphabet. Remarks : Any other useful information. This should also include the number of cases pending decision with the Department. The cases under column 8 pertain to area of non PA status under management which do not involve an endangered species (Schedule-I). FORM – 29 Incentives and awards Year: Sl. Number of recipients of Amount Kind of Number of Range Remarks No. incentives for detecting offences paid (Rs.) award recipients 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Note : Kinds of award : eg. a medal like the Shaurya Chakra, any other such awards instituted by the State or Central Government, includes citations, extra increments etc. Remarks: Any other useful information. If an award carries cash, mention the amount.

85 FORM - 30 Research projects under implementation through PA manpower with or without collaboration with other agencies Year: Sl. Title Comple On- New Status Financial Expenditure Remarks No. ted going outlay(Rs.) incurred (Rs.) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Note : Completed : State date of completion and the status of the project report Ongoing : State since when the project is under operation and expected period of completion New : State the date of commencement and duration. Status : State the progress towards achievement of objectives; or project which has been dropped or held in abeyance etc Remarks : Any other relevant information. If the project is in collaboration with any other agency or is an contractual arrangement, state the situation and the name of the collaborating agency. If animal/plant specimen are being collected, state authority and where the collections are being housed. FORM - 31 Survey and inventories Year: Sl. Title of survey, By other Completed Ongoing New By PA Remarks No. inventory activity agency 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Note : Completed : State date of completion of field work and the status of the report Ongoing : State since when is it under operation & when is it expected to be completed. New : State the date of commencement and duration. By PA personnel: Will include collaboration or contractual arrangement. State the case as relevant. Other agency : State the name of the agency. Remarks : If specimen of plants /animals are being collected, state where the collection is being housed and authority. Any other useful information. FORM - 32 The Monitoring Programme Year: Status of Sl. Title of the Date of Responsible Technique collaboration and Remarks No. programme initiation agency analysis of data 1 2 3 4 5 6 8

Note : Technique : PCQ, belt transect, line transect and plots, pugmarks etc. by the title of the technique. Status of collaboration : Write only if applicable. FORM - 33 Ecodevelopment Programme: Targets and implementation Year: Sector Village Sl. Nature of the (Central / Target set Achievements Remar (Buffer / No. programme State) or NGO ks enclave) sponsored Physical Financial Physical Financial

Note : Nature of the programme: eg. pasture development, fodder plantations, establishing biogas units, livestock improvement, establishment and development of sericulture, revival of local skills such as handicraft, water harvesting systems, adults education etc. Village : Site where programme is being implemented – whether buffer or inside PA Remarks : State problems, state failures and reasons thereof, reasons for not attaining targets, for non-implementation or deviation etc. State whether it is on the right tracks in context of achievement of objectives

86 PART - I THE PROTECTED AREA: THE EXISTING SITUATION MSNP - Location Map PART-II THE PROPOSED MANAGEMENT THE STRATEGIES PART-III APPENDICES CHAPTER 11

BUDGET