First-ever camera-trap record of the Indian bison (Gaur), locally known as Lamsan in Manipur was captured in Nongman village, Kamjong district.

• Camera traps were installed by ENFOGAL, an environmental non-government organisation, with support from Idea Wild (USA).

About Indian bison 

• The Indian bison, also called Gaur, is the largest wild bovine (mammals with cloven hoofs and unbranched horns) species in the world. 
• It is indigenous to the South and Southeast parts of Asia and in India, it is found in parts of the Himalayan foothills, NE India, Eastern Ghats, and Western Ghats.
• Habitat preference:
  • Evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
  • Hilly terrains below 1,500–1,800 metres with abundant water sources.
• Ecological role:
  • Maintains forest ecological balance through grazing.
  • Contributes to seed dispersal and vegetation dynamics.
  • Serves as an important prey species for large carnivores such as tigers.
• Conservation status:
  • International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List: Vulnerable
  • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species: Appendix I
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
  • Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary in Tripura is India’s only natural breeding centre for bison.
• Major threats:
  • Habitat loss and forest fragmentation.
  • Hunting and human disturbance.
  • Disease transmission from domestic cattle.
• Following the discovery, the local village community is considering protective measures, reinforcing the importance of community-led conservation in biodiversity-rich but under-surveyed regions.

Exam Hook – 

Q. Which of the following correctly describes the Indian bison (Gaur)?

• Largest wild bovine species in the world
• Listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List
• Included under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

Answer: All of the above

Source