India’s Tiger Population Rises by 30% in 20 Years

Why in the news?

A National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) study revealed a 30% increase in India’s tiger population over two decades, attributing the success to protected areas and effective conservation efforts, despite global wildlife declines.

India's Tiger Population Rises by 30% in 20 Years

Tiger Population in India Sees 30% Increase:

  • A recent study by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) found that India’s tiger population has increased by 30% over the past two decades.
  • This comes as a significant conservation achievement amid global wildlife population declines.

Conservation Efforts Driving Growth:

  • The establishment of protected areas has played a key role in this success.
  • Land-sparing strategies have allowed 85% of breeding tiger populations to thrive.
  • Strict measures to reduce human interference have contributed to tiger conservation.

Significance of the Study:

  • India’s success showcases its commitment to wildlife conservation and effective implementation of conservation policies.
  • The study highlights India’s global leadership in tiger conservation.
  • The findings can serve as a model for other nations facing challenges in protecting endangered species.
  • Experts recommend the continued expansion of protected habitats and community-driven conservation initiatives to sustain this success.

Government Initiatives to Improve Tiger Population in India:

  • Project Tiger: Centrally Sponsored Scheme providing funding for in-situ tiger conservation in designated reserves.
  • National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA): Statutory body under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, for managing tiger reserves.
  • Tiger Census: Conducted every four years to estimate tiger population.
  • Community Reserves: Local community-managed reserves to protect tiger habitats.
  • Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs): Areas around tiger reserves to protect biodiversity.
  • Project Elephant: Indirectly benefits tigers by protecting elephant habitats.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times