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Nagshankar temple in Assam’s Biswanath district is now a model temple for turtle conservation.
MLA Padma Hazarika recognized the temple’s role during an event on World Turtle Day.
The temple is praised for promoting turtle conservation at the local community level.
The event was organized by Kaziranga National Park, Assam State Zoo, Nagshankar Temple Committee, Chaiduar College, and several conservation groups.
23 May - World Turtle Day
Nagshankar Temple
It is an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
It is situated on the north bank of the river Brahmaputra within the administrative district of Biswanath in Assam.
It is said to have been built by King Narasankar of Nagakha in the 4th century AD.
Later on it was repaired by Ahom king Su-sen-pha in 1480.
The temple premises feature a large pond, whichhouses 250-300 of the world's rarest species of turtles.
Among the species, black softshell, Indian softshell, and Malayan softshell are found.
Some of these turtles are even believed to be hundreds of years old.
Its campus also has animals like peacocks, deer, and pythons.
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