New Tiger Reserve Established in Chhattisgarh

The Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve has been officially notified in Chhattisgarh. This marks milestone in India’s ongoing efforts in tiger conservation. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav. This reserve is the 56th of its kind in India and covers an extensive area of 2,829 square kilometres.

Overview of the Reserve

The Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve spans 2,829.38 square kilometres. It includes a core habitat of 2,049.2 square kilometres, which comprises the Guru Ghasidas National Park and Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary. The reserve also has a buffer zone of 780.15 square kilometres. It ranks as the third-largest tiger reserve in India, following Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam and Manas Tiger Reserves.

Geographical Significance

This tiger reserve is located across several districts – Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Korea, Surajpur, and Balrampur. The reserve is strategically positioned to connect with other important tiger reserves. It is contiguous with the Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, creating a landscape complex of nearly 4,500 square kilometres. It also connects to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh and Palamau Tiger Reserve in Jharkhand.

Ecological Diversity

The reserve boasts a rich ecological diversity. It features varied terrains, dense forests, streams, and rivers. These elements provide a suitable habitat for a wide range of fauna. The Zoological Survey of India has documented 753 species within the reserve. This includes 365 invertebrates and 388 vertebrates. Notably, the vertebrate population features 230 bird species and 55 mammal species, including several threatened species.

Conservation Efforts

The establishment of this reserve is part of India’s National Wildlife Plan, which emphasises a landscape approach to conservation. The initiative aims to encourage coexistence between humans and wildlife. The Government of Chhattisgarh, with guidance from the National Tiger Conservation Authority, has played a very important role in this development.

Future Implications

The notification of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve reflects India’s commitment to wildlife conservation. It aims to enhance biodiversity and protect critical habitats for tigers. The ongoing conservation efforts will likely lead to increased tiger populations and improved ecological health in the region.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the significance of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve in the context of India’s tiger conservation efforts.
2. Critically discuss the ecological and economic impacts of establishing new tiger reserves in India.
3. Analyse the role of the National Tiger Conservation Authority in enhancing wildlife conservation in India.
4. Point out the challenges faced in the conservation of tiger habitats across India and suggest potential solutions.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the significance of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve in the context of India’s tiger conservation efforts.

1. It is the 56th tiger reserve in India, emphasizing the country’s commitment to tiger conservation.
2. The reserve covers 2,829 square kilometers, including critical habitats essential for tiger populations.
3. It is strategically connected to other reserves, promoting genetic diversity and broader conservation efforts.
4. The establishment aligns with India’s National Wildlife Plan, advocating landscape-based conservation strategies.
5. It enhances local biodiversity, providing a sanctuary for various threatened species and maintaining ecological balance.

2. Critically discuss the ecological and economic impacts of establishing new tiger reserves in India.

1. Ecologically, new reserves protect critical habitats, preserving biodiversity and ecosystem services.
2. They provide corridors for wildlife movement, reducing human-wildlife conflict and promoting genetic diversity.
3. Economically, reserves can boost ecotourism, creating jobs and generating revenue for local communities.
4. However, there may be economic trade-offs, such as restrictions on land use for agriculture or development.
5. Proper management is vital to balance conservation goals with the socio-economic needs of surrounding communities.

3. Analyse the role of the National Tiger Conservation Authority in enhancing wildlife conservation in India.

1. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) formulates policies and guidelines for tiger conservation across India.
2. It oversees the management of tiger reserves, ensuring adherence to conservation standards and practices.
3. NTCA facilitates capacity-building programs for forest staff and local communities to enhance conservation efforts.
4. It plays a critical role in monitoring tiger populations and habitats through scientific research and data collection.
5. By collaborating with state governments and NGOs, NTCA promotes awareness and community involvement in conservation initiatives.

4. Point out the challenges faced in the conservation of tiger habitats across India and suggest potential solutions.

1. Habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture, and infrastructure development poses challenge.
2. Human-wildlife conflict arises as tigers venture into human-dominated landscapes in search of food.
3. Insufficient funding and resources can hinder effective management and protection of tiger reserves.
4. Community awareness and involvement in conservation are often lacking, leading to resistance against conservation measures.
5. Potential solutions include promoting sustainable land-use practices, enhancing community engagement, and increasing funding for conservation initiatives.