Madhya Pradesh to Develop Buffer Zones for Tigers

Madhya Pradesh to Develop Buffer Zones for Tigers

Why in the News ?

The Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has approved a ₹145 crore scheme for developing buffer zones around nine tiger reserves to support the growing tiger population, with plans for fencing, wildlife protection, and skill development for local communities.

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Highlights of the Scheme :

  • Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has approved a scheme for the development of buffer zones in the state’s nine tiger reserves.
  • The scheme has a total outlay of ₹145 crore for the financial years 2025-26 and 2027-28.
  • The buffer zones will include ecologically sensitive areas requiring protection.

Key Activities:

  • Installation of chain-link fencing in sensitive buffer areas.
  • Development of grasslands and water resources for wildlife.
  • Implementation of wildlife protection measures, including fire safety protocols.
  • Health monitoring and treatment of wild animals in the reserves.
  • Skill development training programs for local communities to aid conservation efforts.

Conservation Impact:

  • The tiger population in Madhya Pradesh has risen from 526 to 785 in the last four years, highlighting the success of conservation initiatives.
  • Madhav National Park, the ninth tiger reserve in the state, saw the introduction of three tigers as part of a reintroduction project in 2023.
  • The scheme aims to enhance the sustainability of tiger reserves and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts in buffer zones.

About Core and Buffer Zone in Tiger Reserves:

●      Core Area:

○       Strictly oriented towards conservation.

○       No forestry operations, collection of minor forest produce, grazing, or human settlement.

○       No biotic disturbances allowed.

●      Buffer Zone:

○       Managed as a multiple-use area.

○       Focuses on conservation-oriented land use.

○       Provides habitat supplement for the spillover population of wild animals from the core.

○       Facilitates eco-developmental inputs for stakeholder communities.

○       Aims to reduce human-wildlife conflict and support local socio-economic development.