Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kashmir is associated with Cervus elaphus hanglu.

Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary:
Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It spreads over an area of approximately 141 square kilometers and is situated at an altitude ranging from 1,700 meters to 4,300 meters. The sanctuary was established in 1981 to protect the endangered Hangul or Kashmir stag, which is the main species found in the sanctuary.

Cervus elaphus hanglu:
Cervus elaphus hanglu, commonly known as Hangul or Kashmir stag, is a subspecies of red deer. It is native to the high valleys and mountains of the Kashmir region in India and Pakistan. Hangul is the state animal of Jammu and Kashmir and is listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Importance of Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary:
1. Conservation of Hangul: The primary objective of establishing Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary was to protect the Hangul population, which was facing a severe decline due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts. The sanctuary provides a safe and protected habitat for the survival and conservation of this endangered species.

2. Biodiversity hotspot: Apart from Hangul, Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It houses several other mammal species such as Himalayan black bear, Himalayan brown bear, leopard, musk deer, and langur. The sanctuary is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 150 species of birds recorded in the area.

3. Ecological significance: Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the catchment area of the Dachigam National Park, which is the main source of drinking water for the city of Srinagar. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region, protecting the watershed, and ensuring the availability of clean water for the local population.

Conservation efforts:
Several conservation measures have been taken to protect the Hangul and the biodiversity of Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary. These include:
- Strict patrolling and anti-poaching measures to prevent illegal hunting and poaching of Hangul.
- Habitat restoration initiatives to improve the quality of the vegetation and increase the availability of food for the wildlife.
- Community participation in conservation through awareness programs, eco-tourism initiatives, and livelihood support for local communities.

In conclusion, Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kashmir is associated with the conservation of Cervus elaphus hanglu or Hangul, which is an endangered subspecies of red deer. The sanctuary serves as a protected habitat for Hangul and other wildlife, while also playing a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.