Nepal’s Tiger Population and Controversial Diplomacy

Nepal’s tiger population has seen remarkable growth in recent years. From just 120 tigers in 2009, the number surged to 355 by 2022. This increase has positioned Nepal as a global leader in wildlife conservation. However, the rise in tiger numbers has also led to increased human-tiger conflicts. Reports indicate that between 2019 and 2023, tiger attacks resulted in nearly 40 fatalities and numerous injuries. In light of this situation, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli proposed a controversial idea – gifting surplus tigers to other countries as part of economic diplomacy.

Historical Context of Shikar Diplomacy

• The tradition of using wildlife in diplomacy is not new in Nepal.
• The Rana rulers, who governed from 1846 to 1951, utilised lavish hunting trips to build relationships with British elites. These expeditions attracted prominent figures, including British royalty.
• In return for exclusive hunting experiences, the Ranas gained political favours and military support. However, this excessive hunting led to a decline in big game species, including tigers.

Animals as Goodwill Ambassadors

Nepal has a history of gifting endangered species to encourage international relations. Since 1985, Nepal has exported at least 26 one-horned rhinos to countries like the US, the UK, and Japan. Elephants have also been gifted, including two to Qatar in 2024. This practice is not unique to Nepal; other nations, such as China, have effectively used pandas as diplomatic tools. Unlike China, which loans pandas, Nepal’s gifting of tigers raises ethical concerns.

The Controversy of Keeping Tigers as Pets

Oli’s suggestion to gift tigers as pets has sparked debate. Wealthy individuals often keep big cats as status symbols. In the US, an estimated 5,000 tigers are held in captivity, surpassing the wild population. Recent legislation, like the Big Cat Public Safety Act in 2023, aims to curb private ownership. However, tigers are apex predators with complex needs that are rarely met in captivity. Poor living conditions and inadequate care often lead to suffering and abandonment.

Implications for Conservation and Diplomacy

The proposal to gift tigers raises questions about conservation ethics. While Nepal faces a surplus of tigers, the implications of gifting them, particularly to individuals, could undermine conservation efforts. The complexities of tiger management in captivity must be considered. Furthermore, the historical context of wildlife in diplomacy marks the need for a balanced approach that prioritises animal welfare alongside international relations.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the historical significance of wildlife in Nepal’s diplomatic relations.
2. Discuss the ethical implications of gifting tigers as part of economic diplomacy.
3. Critically discuss the impact of private ownership of big cats on wildlife conservation.
4. Analyse the role of international wildlife treaties in protecting endangered species.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the historical significance of wildlife in Nepal’s diplomatic relations.

1. The Rana rulers used hunting expeditions to build ties with British elites from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries.
2. Exclusive hunting trips attracted British royalty, enhancing Nepal’s status and securing political favors.
3. These expeditions contributed to the mythic status of Nepal’s Terai lowlands among British hunting elites.
4. Excessive hunting led to declines in big game species, affecting wildlife populations negatively.
5. Historical context shows a pattern of using wildlife for political leverage, influencing modern diplomatic approaches.

2. Discuss the ethical implications of gifting tigers as part of economic diplomacy.

1. Gifting tigers raises concerns about animal welfare and the complexities of their needs in captivity.
2. Tigers as pets can lead to poor living conditions, inadequate veterinary care, and malnutrition.
3. The practice could undermine conservation efforts by prioritizing diplomatic gestures over wildlife protection.
4. International norms and ethical standards regarding wildlife trade and animal rights must be considered.
5. Public perception and backlash against the commodification of wildlife could impact Nepal’s diplomatic reputation.

3. Critically discuss the impact of private ownership of big cats on wildlife conservation.

1. Private ownership leads to number of tigers in captivity, exceeding the wild population.
2. Inadequate care and poor conditions in captivity result in health issues and behavioral problems for big cats.
3. Legislation like the Big Cat Public Safety Act aims to curb private ownership but marks ongoing challenges.
4. Abandonment and inbreeding among privately owned big cats exacerbate conservation challenges.
5. Private ownership distracts from conservation efforts focused on habitat preservation and wild populations.

4. Analyse the role of international wildlife treaties in protecting endangered species.

1. Treaties like CITES regulate international trade of endangered species, aiming to prevent exploitation.
2. They create a framework for cooperation among countries in wildlife conservation efforts.
3. International agreements promote habitat protection and sustainable practices to preserve biodiversity.
4. Enforcement and compliance remain challenges, with illegal wildlife trade undermining treaty effectiveness.
5. Awareness and education about treaties can enhance public support for conservation initiatives globally.