Co-existing with tigers outside reserves: India's new initiative for human-tiger coexistence
India's tiger conservation success has led to a growing number of tigers living outside protected areas, creating a new conservation frontier. This dispersal results in increased human-tiger conflict, prompting the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to launch the Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves (TOTR) initiative. The TOTR aims to establish a scientifically grounded, landscape-based framework for conserving tigers outside reserves while safeguarding human lives. It shifts from reactive crisis management to a proactive approach, focusing on technology, preparedness, and community participation, with pilot projects in 40 forest divisions across nine states.
Key Points
- India's tiger population growth has led to a significant number of tigers living outside protected areas.
- This dispersal increases human-tiger conflict, necessitating new conservation strategies.
- The Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves (TOTR) initiative aims for proactive, science-driven human-tiger coexistence.
- TOTR focuses on reducing conflict, strengthening field protection, and fostering community participation.
- The initiative is being piloted in 40 forest divisions across nine states, emphasizing technology and institutional capacity.
Exam Facts
- Project Tiger launched in 1973.
- Tiger population increased from 1,411 (2006) to 3,682 (2022).
- 35-40% of India's tiger population lives outside designated Tiger Reserves.
- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the TOTR initiative.
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