NEWS – Tiger population in India has increased by 30% over the past two decades.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Success is attributed to a combination of scientific strategies, land-sharing and land-sparing approaches.
• Tigers now coexist with over 66 million people, demonstrating successful human-wildlife coexistence.
• Other Factors Contributing to Success:
  • Strong legislative framework (Wildlife Protection Act, Forest Conservation Act, National Tiger Conservation Authority).
  • Socio-economic factors: Lower dependence on forest resources and better socio-economic conditions in some regions contribute to tiger recovery.
  • Protected areas and wildlife corridors play a crucial role.

Challenges and Future Directions:

• Addressing Challenges:
  • Socio-political instability and habitat degradation in some regions hinder tiger recovery.
  • Need to address human-wildlife conflict effectively.
• Recommendations:
  • Expand protected areas and habitat corridors.
  • Strengthen anti-poaching measures.
  • Promote sustainable livelihoods for communities near tiger habitats.
  • Enhance human-wildlife conflict mitigation strategies.