Tigers Outside Reserves

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in India is launching a new initiative focused on tiger conservation outside designated reserves. With nearly 30% of the country’s estimated 3,682 tigers residing beyond these protected areas, this project aims to enhance monitoring, reduce poaching, and mitigate human-animal conflict. The initiative was discussed at a recent National Board for Wildlife meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The project has received preliminary approval and is expected to have a budget of ₹176.45 crore until 2026-27.

Project Objectives

The primary goals of the project include monitoring tiger populations outside reserves, reducing poaching incidents, and addressing human-wildlife conflicts. Community outreach will also play a vital role in the project’s success. By engaging local communities, the initiative aims to encourage coexistence between humans and tigers.

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Human-wildlife conflict is a pressing issue, especially in regions like Wayanad in Kerala and Chandrapur in Maharashtra. The dispersal of tigers from reserves increases the risk of conflicts, including livestock depredation. This project will focus on reducing such conflicts and ensuring the safety of both humans and tigers.

Implementation Strategy

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) will implement the project in 80 forest divisions across ten states. This decision is based on findings from the all-India tiger estimation conducted in 2022. The project will supplement existing funding from Project Tiger, which has been instrumental in tiger conservation efforts.

Funding and Resources

The project seeks additional funding from the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). This fund is generated from afforestation and wildlife conservation projects. The ministry has been asked to ensure that there are no overlaps with existing Project Tiger funding.

Statistics and Impact

Data from the government indicates that 378 individuals lost their lives due to tiger-related conflicts between 2020 and 2024. Maharashtra reported the highest fatalities, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. These statistics highlight the urgent need for effective management strategies to protect both wildlife and human lives.

Current Status of Tigers in India

India is home to an estimated 3,628 tigers, with 58 designated tiger reserves. The tiger population is distributed across various landscapes, including the Shivalik Hills and the Central Indian Highlands. The Central Indian Highlands and Eastern Ghats are the most populated regions for tigers, underscoring the importance of targeted conservation efforts.

Future Directions

The project aims to create a comprehensive approach to tiger conservation. By addressing the challenges of human-tiger conflict and enhancing monitoring efforts, it seeks to protect both the tiger population and the livelihoods of local communities. The proposal will be reviewed again by the NTCA for further approval.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of human-wildlife conflict on local communities in India.
2. Discuss the role of community engagement in wildlife conservation initiatives.
3. What are the challenges faced in monitoring tiger populations outside reserves? How can these be addressed?
4. Critically discuss the significance of Project Tiger and its influence on tiger conservation strategies in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of human-wildlife conflict on local communities in India.

1. Human-wildlife conflict leads to loss of livestock, impacting farmers’ livelihoods.
2. Increased fatalities due to tiger attacks create fear and anxiety in local populations.
3. Communities face economic burdens from compensating for wildlife damage.
4. Conflicts can result in retaliatory killings of wildlife, disrupting ecosystem balance.
5. Need for effective management strategies to ensure coexistence and safety for both parties.

2. Discuss the role of community engagement in wildlife conservation initiatives.

1. Community engagement encourages local ownership and responsibility towards wildlife conservation.
2. Involvement of locals can lead to better monitoring and reporting of wildlife activities.
3. Educational programs can help communities understand the ecological importance of tigers.
4. Engaged communities are more likely to support conservation measures and reduce poaching.
5. Collaboration can enhance resource sharing and conflict resolution strategies.

3. What are the challenges faced in monitoring tiger populations outside reserves? How can these be addressed?

1. Lack of infrastructure and resources in remote areas complicates monitoring efforts.
2. High human-animal conflict zones make it difficult to track tiger movements safely.
3. Poaching and illegal activities hinder accurate population assessments.
4. Engaging local communities can provide valuable insights and increase surveillance.
5. Utilizing technology (like camera traps and drones) can enhance monitoring capabilities.

4. Critically discuss the significance of Project Tiger and its influence on tiger conservation strategies in India.

1. Project Tiger has been very important in increasing tiger populations through dedicated reserves.
2. It established a framework for habitat protection and anti-poaching measures.
3. Project Tiger’s success has led to international recognition and funding for conservation.
4. However, it needs to adapt to challenges like human-wildlife conflict and habitat loss.
5. Future strategies must integrate community involvement and address tigers outside reserves.