India celebrates 52 years of Project Tiger

India is celebrating 52 years of Project Tiger, a landmark initiative in wildlife conservation.

1. Launch of Project Tiger: 

 Initiated on April 1, 1973, by the Government of India. Aimed at protecting the dwindling population of Bengal Tigers and preserving their natural habitats.

Administered by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.

2. Achievements: 

 India’s tiger population increased from 1,411 in 2006 to 3,682 in 2022, making it home to nearly 75% of the world’s wild tigers. The country now boasts 58 tiger reserves, covering approximately 83,000 sq km of forest land.

India achieved its target of doubling tiger numbers four years ahead of the St. Petersburg Declaration on Tiger Conservation.

3. Global Recognition:

 Project Tiger is considered one of the world’s most successful wildlife conservation programs. In 2023, India launched the International Big Cats Alliance to protect big cats globally.

4. Challenges: 

 Poaching and habitat loss remain significant threats. Human-wildlife conflict and the need for sustainable coexistence are ongoing concerns.