Parambikulam wild life sanctuary in Kerala will be dedicated to the nation as a tiger reserve by the Union Minister for Environment and Forest Mr Jairam Ramesh on 19th of this month. The unique biodiversity hotspot on the Western Ghats will be the 38th tiger reserve of India and the second one in Kerala.<br/> <br/>AIR correspondent reports, finally, a long standing demand and the cherished dream of Kerala is becoming a reality as the Union Government has decided to declare Parambikulam wild life sanctury as a tiger reserve. <br/><br/>State Forest Minister has informed that the Centre has agreed to declare Parambikulam wild life sanctury established in 1962, as a tiger reserve. Like the Periyar wild life sancturary in Thekkady, Parambikulam is home to many rare species of plants and animals including the majestic tiger. <br/>Situated on the bio-diversity hotspot of Western Ghats, Parambikulam tiger reserve has a core area of 391 sq.Km and a buffer zone of 253 Sq.Km. <br/><br/>Needless to say the decision will go a long way in protecting the natural habitat of India's national animal.