Context: 

The Indian government is launching a new project to monitor tigers outside designated tiger reserves. This initiative aims to address issues like human-wildlife conflict, poaching, and habitat conservation. The project will be rolled out across 10 states and seeks to complement the funding provided under the ongoing Project Tiger.

Key Objectives of the Project:

1.   Monitor Tiger Population: Track tigers outside the reserves to understand their movements and habitat needs.

2.   Reduce Human-Animal Conflict: Engage with local communities to reduce conflicts and provide compensation for tiger-related attacks.

3.   Check Poaching: Increase monitoring efforts to prevent poaching and protect tigers.

4.   Improve Habitat: Focus on preserving and improving tiger habitats.

Implementation and Funding:

• The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) will oversee the implementation of the project.
• The project has a proposed budget of Rs 176.45 crore until 2026-27.
• Funding will be sought from the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).

Statistics and Concerns:

• Tiger Population: India’s estimated tiger population stands at 3,628 tigers, with around 30% living outside designated reserves.
• Human-Wildlife Conflict: Between 2020 and 2024, 378 people were killed due to conflicts with tigers, with Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh being the most affected states.
• Poaching: Recent poaching incidents in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have highlighted gaps in monitoring.

States Affected:

The project will initially cover 80 forest divisions in 10 states, including:

• Kerala: Wayanad
• Maharashtra: Chandrapur
• Uttar Pradesh: Pilibhit
• Other states with significant tiger populations

Background:

• Project Tiger was launched in 1973 to conserve India’s tiger population and is a key part of India’s wildlife conservation efforts.
• The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) was established in 2005 to oversee tiger conservation programs.

Conclusion

The launch of this new project represents a significant step toward ensuring the long-term survival of tigers outside protected reserves. By focusing on monitoring, community outreach, and habitat improvement, the initiative aims to safeguard both human lives and tiger populations, while enhancing conservation efforts across the country. The collaboration between the NTCA, state forest departments, and local communities will be key to its success in creating a harmonious coexistence between humans and tigers.