International Tiger Day, observed on July 29 every year, is a significant occasion to raise awareness about the conservation of tigers and their habitats. In 2010, during the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit, Tiger Range Countries (TRCs) gathered to address the alarming decline in tiger numbers worldwide. Since then, International Tiger Day has become an important event to highlight conservation efforts and celebrate successes in tiger conservation.
India, home to 75% of the world's tiger population, has played a pivotal role in the conservation of these majestic animals. The country's journey in tiger conservation began with the establishment of Project Tiger on April 1, 1973, under the visionary leadership of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. This ambitious initiative aimed to revive the dwindling tiger population and protect their natural habitats. Over the past five decades, India's efforts have paid off, with the tiger population witnessing a remarkable increase from a mere 268 in 1973 to an estimated 3,167 individuals in 2022.
The Success of Project Tiger
India's wildlife faced a grim situation during the period between Independence and 1972. Trophy hunting, which was once restricted to the elite, had become a fad among those who could afford it, resulting in a significant decline in tiger numbers. Project Tiger, along with the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, played a crucial role in curbing the decline and reducing the domestic market for trophy hunting.
Eminent conservationist YV Jhala acknowledged that without Project Tiger, India might have lost its tigers by now. The establishment of tiger reserves and the Wildlife Protection Act provided much-needed protection to these magnificent creatures and their habitats. Some of the tiger reserves, such as Corbett, Kanha, Pench, Bandhavgarh, Tadoba Andhari, Ranthambore, and Panna, have even reached their carrying capacity, demonstrating the success of the conservation efforts.
Challenges in Tiger Conservation
Despite the successes, tiger conservation in India faces several challenges. The remaining tiger habitat, which amounts to around 300,000 square kilometers, needs to be restored with a suitable prey base before tigers can occupy it. To accommodate more tigers in forested habitats of states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Arunachal, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Assam, restoring the prey base, controlling Naxal activities, and weaning tribal communities off bush meat are essential steps.
Another significant challenge is the fragmentation of tiger reserves, which leads to the formation of isolated gene pools that are vulnerable to pandemic-driven wipeout. These corridors, known as "umbilical cords" for the survival of tiger reserve populations, need to be protected and managed to ensure seamless tiger movement from one protected area to another. The formation of metapopulations through habitat linkages is a crucial strategy for the long-term viability of individual tiger populations.
Religious and Cultural Values in Tiger Conservation
India faces the challenge of balancing tiger conservation with human activities, especially in areas where tigers come into conflict with local communities. However, the country's religious and cultural values foster tolerance among human societies towards coexistence with carnivores. By sharing revenues from tiger reserves with communities residing in buffer zones and corridor habitats, compensating for damage at market rates, and addressing problem tigers promptly, the backlash against the species can be prevented.
The Roadmap for Tiger Conservation in the Next Decade
Looking ahead, India's roadmap for tiger conservation in the next decade should focus on protecting and enhancing these vital corridors to enable seamless tiger movement. Strengthening the gene pool of tiger populations through metapopulations will play a critical role in ensuring their long-term viability.
*International Cooperation in Tiger Conservation*
Tiger conservation is not limited to national borders, and international cooperation is crucial. Some have suggested translocating tigers to Asian countries where they have gone extinct. However, experts caution against this option, as it is not viable and lacks scientific support. Instead, efforts should be made to protect tiger habitats and strengthen conservation measures in their native countries.
Conclusion
International Tiger Day is a momentous occasion that celebrates the successes of tiger conservation efforts worldwide. India, with its Project Tiger initiative, has set an example for the world in preserving these magnificent creatures and their habitats. However, challenges persist, and continued efforts are required to ensure the long-term survival of tigers.
As we commemorate International Tiger Day, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining ecological balance and preserving biodiversity. Every individual's contribution counts, whether it's raising awareness, supporting conservation organizations, or actively engaging in efforts to protect tiger habitats.
The survival of tigers is undoubtedly in our hands, and by joining hands, we can ensure that these iconic creatures continue to roam the forests and enrich our planet for generations to come. Let us pledge to protect and conserve tigers, not just on International Tiger Day, but every day of the year. Only by working together can we secure a future where tigers thrive and inspire awe and admiration in generations to come.
Thanks for reading,
Naga Surya K.
