Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary
The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, also known as the Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, is located in Assam, India. It was recently in the news due to its conservation efforts and the presence of the highly endangered Hoolock gibbons.

Location
The sanctuary is located in the Jorhat district of Assam, which is in the northeastern part of India. It is situated near the town of Mariani, approximately 20 kilometers from Jorhat city.

Importance of the Sanctuary
1. Conservation of Hoolock Gibbons: The primary objective of the sanctuary is the conservation of Hoolock gibbons, which are native to the region. The sanctuary provides a protected habitat for these highly endangered primates.

2. Biodiversity Hotspot: The sanctuary is not only home to Hoolock gibbons but also supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is considered a biodiversity hotspot and is rich in various plant species, birds, reptiles, and mammals.

3. Habitat for Other Animals: Apart from Hoolock gibbons, the sanctuary provides a habitat for other animal species like the Bengal slow loris, Assamese macaque, and various species of birds and reptiles.

4. Conservation Efforts: The sanctuary plays a crucial role in the conservation of Hoolock gibbons through various initiatives such as anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and awareness programs. It also conducts research and monitoring activities to study the behavior and population dynamics of the gibbons.

Threats and Challenges
1. Habitat Loss: The sanctuary faces the threat of habitat loss due to encroachment and deforestation. Human activities such as agriculture, logging, and infrastructure development pose a significant challenge to the conservation efforts.

2. Poaching: Poaching is another major threat to the sanctuary's wildlife, including the Hoolock gibbons. The illegal wildlife trade for their body parts and the destruction of their habitat for commercial purposes contribute to this threat.

3. Fragmentation: The sanctuary's habitat is fragmented due to human activities and agricultural land use. This fragmentation can isolate populations of wildlife, reducing genetic diversity and affecting their long-term survival.

Conclusion
The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Assam is a critical conservation area for the endangered Hoolock gibbons and other wildlife species. Its location in Assam makes it an important biodiversity hotspot in the region. However, the sanctuary faces various threats like habitat loss and poaching, which require continuous efforts and support for its conservation.