Chhattisgarh’s Tiger Revival Efforts

In March 2024, Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh welcomed a young male tiger. This sanctuary had not seen tigers for nearly 40 years. The arrival of this four-year-old male has sparked hope among conservationists. Forest authorities are now planning to introduce two female tigers to help revive the local tiger population. This initiative comes as Chhattisgarh faces a decline in its tiger numbers, with a drop from 46 tigers in 2014 to just 17 in 2022.

Current Situation

The lone tiger’s presence has prompted immediate action from forest officials. They have reached out to the National Tiger Conservation Authority for two female tigers. The sanctuary spans 244.66 square kilometres and is home to diverse wildlife, including leopards and elephants. The last tiger sighting in this area was over a decade ago.

Conservation Measures

To protect the new resident, the forest department has implemented several measures. They have set up 200 camera traps and conduct regular night patrols. A dedicated team is tasked with tracking the tiger’s movements. This team communicates with local staff to ensure the animal’s safety. They are also working with local cattle herders, offering compensation for any livestock losses due to the tiger.

Challenges Ahead

Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Wildlife conservationists highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy prey base. The decline in prey could threaten the tiger’s survival. Additionally, poaching and encroachments pose important risks to the sanctuary’s ecosystem. Forest officials must remain vigilant to protect both the tiger and its habitat.

Future Plans

Chhattisgarh currently has three tiger reserves. The state government is working to establish a fourth reserve, Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla. This new reserve is expected to be the third largest in the country. Recent successes in the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, where tiger numbers have doubled, indicate that conservation efforts can yield positive results.

Ecotourism Potential

Reviving the tiger population in Barnawapara could boost local tourism. A healthy tiger population attracts visitors, which can benefit the local economy. The sanctuary’s officials are optimistic about the future, given the adequate prey base and water availability.

Community Involvement

Engaging local communities is crucial for successful conservation. The forest department’s collaboration with cattle herders is a step in the right direction. Their involvement can help monitor the tiger’s movements and reduce human-wildlife conflict.

Conclusion

The arrival of the young tiger in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary marks step towards restoring the region’s tiger population. With ongoing efforts to protect the habitat and engage local communities, there is hope for a sustainable future for tigers in Chhattisgarh.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of tiger population decline on biodiversity in India.
2. What are the key factors influencing the success of wildlife conservation efforts in India? Provide examples.
3. Estimate the role of local communities in wildlife conservation initiatives in India.
4. Point out the challenges faced by wildlife sanctuaries in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of tiger population decline on biodiversity in India.

1. Tigers are apex predators; their decline disrupts the food chain, leading to overpopulation of herbivores.
2. Loss of tigers can result in habitat degradation as unchecked herbivore populations damage vegetation.
3. The decline affects other species dependent on a balanced ecosystem, leading to reduced biodiversity.
4. Tiger population health is an indicator of overall ecosystem health; their decline signals environmental issues.
5. Conservation of tigers supports broader wildlife protection efforts, encouraging biodiversity preservation initiatives.

2. What are the key factors influencing the success of wildlife conservation efforts in India? Provide examples.

1. Legal frameworks like the Wildlife Protection Act (1972) provide a foundation for conservation efforts.
2. Community involvement, as seen in initiatives like eco-development committees, enhances local engagement and support.
3. Effective habitat management and restoration, such as in the Achanakmar reserve, can lead to increased wildlife populations.
4. Government and NGO partnerships, exemplified by projects like Project Tiger, facilitate resource sharing and expertise.
5. Awareness and education programs help encourage a conservation ethic among the public, promoting wildlife protection.

3. Estimate the role of local communities in wildlife conservation initiatives in India.

1. Local communities can act as stewards of the land, monitoring wildlife and reporting illegal activities.
2. Community-based programs can provide economic incentives, such as ecotourism, reducing reliance on poaching.
3. Involvement in conservation efforts encourages a sense of ownership and responsibility towards local ecosystems.
4. Education and awareness initiatives empower communities to understand the importance of biodiversity preservation.
5. Collaborative management between authorities and local people enhances the effectiveness of conservation strategies.

4. Point out the challenges faced by wildlife sanctuaries in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

1. Poaching remains threat, undermining wildlife populations and disrupting ecosystem balance.
2. Habitat encroachment and land-use changes lead to fragmentation, reducing available space for wildlife.
3. Human-wildlife conflict, particularly in agricultural areas, complicates conservation efforts and creates community tensions.
4. Climate change impacts can alter habitats and species distributions, challenging existing conservation frameworks.
5. Insufficient funding and resources limit the ability of sanctuaries to implement effective management and protection strategies.