Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) has earned the prestigious title of the first ‘Dark Sky Park’ in India and fifth in Asia. Recognising the intrinsic value of the night sky as a natural, cultural, and historical resource, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recently granted the title. This certification not only grants national recognition to PTR but also places it on the international stage. The Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society Working Group, led by International Astronomical Union, has recommended the establishment of ‘Dark Sky Oases’ by national and local governments to protect citizens’ right to enjoy the beauty of a star-filled sky. The Certification of ‘Dark Sky Place’, focusing on Lighting Policy, Dark Sky friendly retrofits, outreach and education, and monitoring the night sky, encourages communities and protected areas worldwide to safeguard dark sites.

 

IUCN emphasises the importance of preserving natural darkness for the sake of nature conservation, ecological integrity in protected areas, and the well-being of communities in healthy cities. The escalating global threat of light pollution poses a substantial risk to this invaluable resource. Seizing this opportunity, PTR, Maharashtra, has inaugurated a night observatory under the innovation scheme of the DPC Fund. The protection watchtower has been equipped with a telescope. Also to mitigate light pollution, over 100 street and community lights in Wagholi, Sillari, Pipariya, Khapa villages of Paoni UC range buffer area have been replaced with lights facing the ground.

 

This facility promises educational opportunities for youths and enthusiasts nation-wide, offering a platform for celestial observation. Collaborating with the adjoining Eco Development Committee (EDC) ensures the provision of staying facilities and hospitality services, as activities are typically organised during the night. Abhishek Pawse played a key role in coordinating and documenting this remarkable achievement along with his brother Ajinkya Pawse, stated a press release issued by Dr Prabhunath Shukla, Deputy Director, PTR.