Critically endangered vegetation in Nauradhar velley of Sirmour in North western Himalayas

 Critically endangered vegetation in Nauradhar velley of Sirmour in North western Himalayas

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  The Nauradhar area in Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh, lies adjacent to the ecologically rich Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary. This region is part of the Western Himalayas, a recognized biodiversity hotspot, and is home to several critically endangered and threatened plant speciesNauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary: 

• Critically Endangered and Threatened Plant Species in the Nauradhar Area

  1. Dactylorhiza hatagirea (locally known as Salam Panja): A critically endangered medicinal orchid valued for its therapeutic properties. It faces threats from overharvesting and habitat degradation. ​

  2. Malaxis muscifera: Another critically endangered orchid species found in the region, also under pressure due to overcollection for medicinal use

  3. Arnebia euchroma (Ratanjot): A critically endangered plant known for its vibrant red roots, traditionally used in dyes and Ayurvedic medicine. Its population has declined due to overexploitation. ​

  4. Aconitum heterophyllum (Atis): An endangered herb with significant medicinal value, particularly in traditional medicine systems. Unsustainable harvesting practices have led to its decline.

  5. Saussurea bracteata: A threatened species belonging to the Asteraceae family, native to high-altitude Himalayan regions. It is vulnerable due to habitat loss and overharvesting.

  6. Angelica glauca: An endangered aromatic and medicinal plant, facing threats from habitat destruction and overcollection.

  7. Betula utilis (Himalayan Birch): A tree species native to the Himalayas, used traditionally for writing and in rituals. It is under pressure from logging and habitat loss.

  8. Meconopsis aculeata: A rare Himalayan blue poppy species, prized for its ornamental value, now threatened due to overcollection and habitat disturbances.

  9. Paris polyphylla: An endangered medicinal herb used in traditional medicine, facing population decline due to overharvesting.

  10. Polygonatum verticillatum: A medicinal plant species, threatened by overexploitation and habitat degradation.

      Conservation Efforts

      The Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary, encompassing parts of the Nauradhar area, plays a crucial role in the conservation of these species. Efforts include habitat protection, regulation of plant harvesting, and awareness programs. However, challenges such as illegal collection and insufficient enforcement persist.

• Community-based conservation initiatives, including the cultivation of endangered medicinal plants, have been suggested to alleviate pressure on wild populations and support local livelihoods


This sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is known for its rich biodiversity, including various medicinal plants. However, there's no specific data available on critically endangered vegetation within this area. 
Himachal Pradesh Threatened Plants:

• Several plant species in Himachal Pradesh face threats, including:

  • Ratanjot (Arnebia euchroma): A critically endangered plant species of the Trans-Himalayan region
  • Mohra (Aconitum deinorrhizum): A threatened medicinal plant. 
  • Atis (Aconitum heteroph
  • Salam Panja (Dactylorhiza hatagirea): A critically endangered species. 
  • yllum): Another threatened medicinal plant. 
  • Other Threatened Plants:

    The list of threatened plants in Himachal Pradesh also includes India Biodiversity Portal species like Acer caesium, Allium stracheyi, Saussurea bracteata, and Saussurea costus. 

    • Conservation Efforts:

      Himachal Pradesh State Biodiversity Board has identified these plants as threatened and is working on conservation strategies, including ex-situ cultivation and habitat protection. 
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