Match the following Wildlife Sanctuaries (Column A) with their respective States (Column B). Choose the option correct option: Column A (Wildlife Sanctuary) Column B (State) 1. Gandhi Sagar WLS a. Assam 2. Sonai Rupai WLS b. Madhya Pradesh 3. Kaimur WLS c. Telangana 4. Eturnagaram WLS d. Bihar

The correct answer is Option 1 . Key Points Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Madhya Pradesh . It is situated near the Chambal River and is known for its rich biodiversity. Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Assam . It lies in the foothills of the Himalayan ranges and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants and tigers. Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Bihar . It is the largest sanctuary in the state and is known for its waterfalls, archaeological sites, and wildlife. Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Telangana . It is one of the oldest sanctuaries in the region and is noted for its teak forests and biodiversity. The correct match is 1 - b, 2 - a, 3 - d, 4 - c , which corresponds to Option 1 . Additional Information Wildlife Sanctuaries in India: India has over 550 wildlife sanctuaries, which serve as protected areas for conserving biodiversity. They are governed under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. These sanctuaries contribute to ecological balance and are vital for preserving endangered species. Biodiversity Hotspots in India: India is home to four biodiversity hotspots: the Himalayas, the Western Ghats, the Indo-Burma region, and the Sundaland (Nicobar Islands). These regions are critical for global biodiversity conservation due to their unique ecosystems and endemic species. Importance of Wildlife Sanctuaries: They provide safe habitats for wildlife, especially endangered and vulnerable species. They help maintain ecological balance and protect ecosystems from degradation. They promote eco-tourism, which can benefit local economies while fostering conservation awareness. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: This act forms the basis for wildlife conservation in India. It provides for the establishment of protected areas such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation reserves. The act prohibits poaching, hunting, and illegal trade of wildlife.