The increasing human-tiger conflicts in India have prompted the Union Environment Ministry to initiate a pilot scheme. This scheme aims to manage conflicts involving tigers outside designated tiger reserves. The approval for funding was granted by the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). The pilot scheme will focus on 80 forest divisions across 10 states identified for their recurring human-tiger conflict.
Overview of the Pilot Scheme
The pilot scheme is designed to enhance monitoring and protection of tigers and co-predators. It will provide technical interventions to forest managers. The scheme will also facilitate collaborations with civil society and expert veterinarians. The aim is to strengthen the management of human-tiger interactions and improve the prey base for tigers.
Funding and Implementation
The proposed outlay for the scheme is ₹88 crore until 2026-27. The funding approval was discussed during the National Board for Wildlife meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Chief Wildlife Wardens of state forest departments will implement the scheme in collaboration with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). The NTCA is responsible for finalising the list of forest and wildlife divisions involved in the pilot.
Background of Human-Tiger Conflicts
Approximately 30% of India’s over 3,600 tigers live outside tiger reserves. These tigers often venture into human settlements, leading to conflicts. They prey on livestock and herbivores, increasing tensions between humans and wildlife. The conflicts have resulted in casualties, with 382 people killed between 2020 and 2024 due to encounters with tigers.
Areas Affected by Conflicts
Key areas experiencing high levels of human-tiger conflict include Chandrapur near Tadoba Tiger Reserve, sugarcane fields near Dudhwa in Uttar Pradesh, and regions around Ranthambore and Wayanad. These locations have been identified as hotspots for human-tiger interactions, necessitating immediate intervention.
Role of the National Tiger Conservation Authority
The NTCA plays important role in managing tiger populations and mitigating conflicts. As the proponent of the pilot scheme, it will oversee the implementation and monitor progress. The authority will also provide revised year-wise estimates for future funding requests.
Future Directions
The Union Environment Minister has acknowledged the challenges posed by man-animal conflicts. The government plans to focus more on tigers living outside reserves. This proactive approach aims to ensure the safety of both tigers and human populations in conflict-prone areas.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of human-tiger conflicts on local communities and biodiversity in India.
- What are the roles of the National Tiger Conservation Authority in managing tiger populations? Explain.
- What is the significance of compensatory afforestation in wildlife conservation? Discuss its implications.
- What are the challenges faced in wildlife management in India? How can technology aid in addressing these challenges?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of human-tiger conflicts on local communities and biodiversity in India.
- Human-tiger conflicts often lead to loss of livestock, impacting local farmers’ livelihoods.
- Conflicts result in fatalities and injuries among community members, creating fear and tension.
- Displacement of wildlife due to territorial disputes can disrupt local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Increased human encroachment into tiger habitats exacerbates conflicts and endangers tiger populations.
- Community resentment towards conservation efforts can hinder wildlife protection initiatives.
2. What are the roles of the National Tiger Conservation Authority in managing tiger populations? Explain.
- The NTCA formulates policies and guidelines for tiger conservation across India.
- It oversees the implementation of the Project Tiger scheme to enhance tiger habitats.
- NTCA conducts regular monitoring and assessment of tiger populations and their habitats.
- It collaborates with state forest departments to mitigate human-tiger conflicts effectively.
- NTCA facilitates research and data collection to inform conservation strategies and policies.
3. What is the significance of compensatory afforestation in wildlife conservation? Discuss its implications.
- Compensatory afforestation helps restore degraded ecosystems and enhances biodiversity.
- It offsets the environmental impact of deforestation due to development projects.
- This practice contributes to carbon sequestration, combating climate change effects.
- It creates habitat for various wildlife species, promoting ecological balance.
- Effective afforestation can improve water retention and soil quality in affected areas.
4. What are the challenges faced in wildlife management in India? How can technology aid in addressing these challenges?
- Human-wildlife conflicts arise from habitat encroachment and resource competition.
- Insufficient funding and resources hinder effective wildlife conservation efforts.
- Corruption and lack of coordination among agencies can disrupt management strategies.
- Technology such as GPS tracking and camera traps can enhance monitoring of wildlife populations.
- Data analytics can help in predicting conflict hotspots and improving intervention strategies.
