The Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI), situated in Palode, has proudly announced that their Tiger Orchids (Grammatophyllum speciosum) are currently in full bloom. This particular plant species has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest orchid globally.
The Tiger Orchids’ roots trace back to several Asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. They thrive best in terrestrial environments such as Primary Rainforest, Freshwater Swamp Forest, and Riverine. The plants greatly favor tropical and sub-tropical climates as well as regional monsoons.
Another striking feature about the Tiger Orchids is their growth form. The plant’s stem is impressive, measuring 3 meters or more in length and up to 5 centimeters thick, making it the largest orchid species in the world.
Spotlight on Bura Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary
Bura Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River, came under the limelight when unfortunate incidents of violence erupted, leading to the death of a woman and injuries to six others.
This sanctuary belongs to the expansive Laokhowa-Burachapori ecosystem. It houses a diverse range of wildlife, including the Great Indian one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, leopard, wild buffalo, hog deer, wild pig, and elephants. The sanctuary is also recognized for its bird species, ranging from the highly endangered Bengal Florican to the Black-necked Stork, Mallard, Open billed Stork, Teal, and Whistling Duck amongst others.
Because of the multiple wetlands present, Bura Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary serves as an ideal breeding ground for numerous migratory bird species during the winter. It is also known for its rich diversity of medicinal herbs and plants.
Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve: A New Addition to Tamil Nadu
The forest department recently identified 12 illegal or unauthorised resorts in the Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve (SMTR) located in the Megamalai division of Theni. The reserve, which was established in 2021, is Tamil Nadu’s fifth and India’s 51st tiger reserve.
This sanctuary plays a crucial role in the protection of the Megamalai region which contributes significantly to the Vaigai River’s primary catchment, further helping to increase water levels. The wildlife fauna seen here includes Bengal tiger, elephants, gaur, Indian giant squirrel, leopard, and Nilgiri Thars, among others. The tropical evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, dry deciduous forests, moist mixed deciduous forests, and grassland, add to the biodiversity of this area.
Tankai Method
The Ministry of Culture has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Indian Navy to revive an ancient shipbuilding technique known as the Tankai method. Under this agreement, the Indian Navy would be responsible for managing the entire project’s execution and implementation.
The ‘stitched shipbuilding method’, as it is often dubbed, is a traditional boat-building technique that requires the planks of a boat to be sewn together using cord or wire instead of employing nails or screws. This practice, dating back almost 2000 years, continues to be followed in certain parts of the world for constructing small boats.
Historically significant and reflective of traditional craftsmanship, the stitched ship holds cultural value in India. These ships are preferred for their flexibility and durability, making them less prone to damage from underwater obstructions like shoals and sandbars.
