Photo by Clovis Wood Photography on Unsplash
In a significant stride for wildlife conservation, Rajasthan has established its fifth tiger reserve with the official approval of the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). This newly designated area spans Rajasthan's Karauli and Dholpur districts, covering an expansive 1,058 square kilometers. The reserve comprises a core area of 368 square kilometers and an encompassing buffer zone spanning 690 square kilometers. The forests marked for this new tiger reserve currently host a population of nine tigers. This elevates Rajasthan's standing in tiger preservation, as it joins the ranks of Ranthambore, Sariska, Mukundra Hills, and Ramgarh Vishdhari. Furthermore, India now boasts a total of 54 tiger reserves with the addition of this one in the Karauli and Dholpur districts.
The announcement of the new tiger reserve was granted by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, who also took to 'X' to commend the development:
"Giant leap for wildlife conservation in Rajasthan. Happy to announce that the state has got yet another Tiger Reserve. The Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve has been accorded the final approval by @ntca_india. Let's pledge to safeguard this precious ecosystem and its majestic tigers."
The strategy behind such establishments of tiger reserves follows a core and buffer approach. While the core region is legally recognized as a national park or sanctuary, the buffer zones encompass a blend of forest and non-forest land that serves as a multifunctional area. Project Tiger's focus in the core sectors revolves around the exclusive protection of the tiger population, whereas the buffer areas incorporate a people-oriented agenda alongside conservation efforts.
Recognizing the burgeoning population of these majestic animals in the region, the Rajasthan state forest department presented a proposal for the creation of the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve. The approval from the NTCA in February of this year marked a pivotal moment in Rajasthan's wildlife conservation efforts. Moreover, there is tentative approval for designating Kumbhalgarh in Rajasthan as a future Tiger Reserve.
As per the "Status of Tigers 2022" report unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April, the tiger population in the country has witnessed growth, reaching a minimum count of 3,167. And the establishment of the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve underscores the significance of preserving natural habitats and ecosystems for tigers. Such reserves play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance, conserving biodiversity, and protecting endangered species like the majestic tigers.
Through dedicated efforts and initiatives, India continues to reinforce its commitment to safeguarding its natural heritage for future generations. The establishment of tiger reserves holds paramount importance in safeguarding India's rich biodiversity and protecting endangered species like tigers. These reserves serve as sanctuaries for wildlife, contributing to the conservation of ecosystems and ensuring the survival of these majestic creatures for generations to come. As habitats continue to shrink due to human activities, tiger reserves become vital havens where these iconic animals can thrive. By supporting and investing in tiger reserves, we invest in the well-being of our planet and the diverse life it sustains.
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