"Save the tigers before they are silenced forever. Killing tigers is greed, not the need. Save Tiger! Save Nature!"
Introduction
According to the Global Tiger Forum, about 5,574 tigers remain in the wild, but much more work is needed to protect this species if we are to secure its future in the wild. In some areas, including much of Southeast Asia, tigers are still in crisis and declining in number. International Tiger Day, observed on July 29th, raises awareness about tiger conservation. It was established during the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit by nations that are home to tigers. This crucial day aims to highlight the threats faced by tigers, including habitat loss and illegal poaching. Promoting responsible eco-tourism and supporting conservation efforts, emphasizes the need for global action to protect these magnificent big cats. Ecological Role of Tiger:
The tiger is not merely a solitary apex predator; it is a keystone species, an architect of the ecosystem. Its presence ensures the balance of prey populations, fostering biodiversity. But the tiger's world is shrinking, fragmented by human encroachment, its forests transformed into fields, its water sources polluted. The allure of its parts in traditional medicine and the black market has led to a relentless poaching epidemic.Moreover, the tiger's plight is inextricably linked to climate change. As forests shrink and temperatures rise, the big cats are forced to adapt or perish.
Conservation Efforts so far:
Tiger conservation is a global responsibility. It transcends borders, uniting nations in a common cause. International cooperation is essential to combat transnational wildlife crime and share best practices. Tiger conservation is a complex challenge, requiring a multifaceted approach. It demands robust anti-poaching measures and stringent law enforcement.
● The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) regulates the trade of tiger parts and products, aiming to eliminate illegal wildlife trade and ensure the legal and sustainable sourcing of tiger specimens.
● The Global Tiger Initiative (GTI), launched in 2008, fosters collaboration among governments, NGOs, and international organizations to support tiger conservation efforts.
● The St. Petersburg Tiger Summit in 2010 brought together world leaders to endorse the Global Tiger Recovery Program (GTRP), which aimed to double tiger populations by 2022.
● WWF actively advances the TX2 goal, aiming to double wild tiger populations, through the Global Tiger Initiative, Global Tiger Forum, and other vital platforms.
● The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) supports countries in implementing sustainable development practices that align with tiger conservation goals.
● India stands as a shining example of successful tiger conservation. In 1973, India launched Project Tiger, a pioneering initiative that aimed to protect and increase the tiger population. Under this program, tiger reserves were established across the country, providing protected spaces for tigers to thrive.Thanks to these efforts, India has witnessed a significant increase in its tiger population, with the latest census showing a rise to 3,167, up from 2,967 in 2018.
● The success of tiger conservation extends beyond India. Neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh have also made significant strides in protecting their tiger populations. Nepal, through its commitment to conservation and community involvement, has experienced a remarkable increase in tiger numbers.Strict anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and transboundary collaboration with India have contributed to this success.
● Bhutan, known for its conservation-centric policies, has implemented effective measures to safeguard tiger habitats, resulting in a stable tiger population. Bangladesh has also implemented initiatives such as the Sundarbans Tiger Project, aimed at protecting the endangered Bengal tiger in the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans.
● Southeast Asian countries have demonstrated their dedication to tiger conservation as well. Indonesia, home to the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, has declared national parks and increased law enforcement efforts to combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade.
● Malaysia, with its Belum-Temengor Forest Complex and Taman Negara National Park, has prioritized conservation efforts, including the establishment of wildlife corridors to enhance tiger connectivity.
● Thailand, through its comprehensive anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and community engagement, has seen its tiger population rebound in protected areas.
● Tiger conservation efforts are not limited to Asia. South Africa has successfully implemented measures to protect its tiger population in regions such as the Kruger National Park. Additionally, there have been significant efforts to protect and restore their tiger populations by implementing anti-poaching measures, establishing protected areas, and raising awareness about tiger conservation.
Case Study:
Successful Rehabilitation of Tiger Population Numerous case studies illustrate successful rehabilitation efforts for tiger populations. One such example is the reintroduction of tigers in the Panna Tiger Reserve, India. After the local extinction of tigers in the reserve, concerted conservation efforts, including habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement, led to the successful reintroduction of tigers. This case study emphasizes the importance of strong political will, community involvement, habitat restoration, and effective anti-poaching measures in achieving successful tiger population recovery.
Conclusion
The tiger's survival is a barometer of our own humanity. It is a test of our ability to coexist with nature, to balance our needs with the needs of other species. On the occasion of International Tiger’s day 2024, the world should join hands to write a new chapter in the tiger's tale, one where its stripes once again adorn the landscapes of our planet, a symbol of hope, resilience, and our commitment to a shared future. For the world to be whole, the tiger must prowl.
Reference: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/tiger
Written By-
Palak Sharma
Editorial Head, MH Vatavaran
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