South East Asia's First Night Sky Sanctuary in Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary:

The correct answer is option 'A', which is the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. The Government of India has announced the upcoming establishment of South East Asia's first Night Sky Sanctuary in this sanctuary. Let's delve into the details to understand why this choice is correct.

About Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary:

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It spans across an area of approximately 4,000 square kilometers and is known for its unique and diverse ecosystem. The sanctuary is primarily characterized by high-altitude plateaus, rugged mountains, and vast expanses of cold desert.

Importance of Night Sky Sanctuaries:

Night Sky Sanctuaries aim to protect and preserve dark skies by minimizing light pollution. These sanctuaries are designated areas where measures are taken to maintain the natural darkness of the night sky. They serve as important sites for astronomical observations, stargazing, and scientific research.

Reasons for choosing Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary:

Several factors make Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary an ideal choice for South East Asia's first Night Sky Sanctuary. These include:

1. Remote Location: The sanctuary is situated in a remote and sparsely populated region, which minimizes the impact of artificial lights on the night sky. This remote location ensures that the sanctuary has relatively low light pollution levels, providing an excellent opportunity for stargazing and astronomical observations.

2. High Altitude: The sanctuary is located at a high altitude, which further contributes to the clear and unpolluted night skies. High altitude areas often experience less atmospheric turbulence, resulting in better visibility of celestial objects.

3. Pristine Environment: Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Tibetan wild ass (also known as kiang), Tibetan antelope, snow leopard, and black-necked crane. Establishing a Night Sky Sanctuary here will not only protect the night sky but also contribute to the overall conservation efforts in the region.

4. Cultural Significance: The Ladakh region has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its spiritual connection with the night sky. The establishment of a Night Sky Sanctuary in Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary will help preserve and promote the cultural significance associated with the celestial observations and traditional practices of the local communities.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Government of India has chosen the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary as the site for South East Asia's first Night Sky Sanctuary. This decision is based on the sanctuary's remote location, high altitude, pristine environment, and cultural significance. Establishing a Night Sky Sanctuary in this region will not only protect the natural darkness of the night sky but also contribute to the conservation of the unique ecosystem and cultural traditions of the Ladakh region.