Tiger Reserves

Tiger reserves are crucial sanctuaries established to conserve the majestic Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris), a vital part of India’s ecological heritage. Recognizing the dwindling tiger population, the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, was amended in 2006 to establish the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and empower states to notify areas as tiger reserves under Section 38V. These reserves go beyond mere protection, aiming to foster the well-being of tigers and their prey base, while also considering the needs of local communities. Kerala, nestled along the southwest coast of India, is home to two prominent tiger reserves : Periyar and Parambikulam.

Sl. No	Tiger Reserve (TR)	PA Notification Year	TR Notification Year	Core Area(sq km)	Notification	Buffer Area (sqkm)	Notification	Total Area (sq km)
1	Periyar	1978-1979	2007	881.00	G.O(P) No. 75/07/F&WLD dt.31/12/2007 Area of Goodrickal range handed over vide G.O(MS)88/2010/F&WLD dt.23/12/2010	44.00	G.O(P)No.18/ 2011/F&W LD dt.22/03/2011	925.00
2	Parambik ulam	–	2009	390.89	G.O(P)No. 53/2009/F&WL D dated 16/12/2009	252.77	G.O(P)No 54/09/F&W LD dated 17/12/2009	643.66

Establishing a Tiger Reserve: A Collaborative Process

The creation of a tiger reserve in India involves a multi-step process governed by the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, specifically Section 38V. This process fosters collaboration between the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and state governments. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:

1. State Initiates Proposal: The state government, identifying a potential area, submits a proposal to the NTCA.
2. NTCA Provides Initial Feedback: The NTCA reviews the proposal, offering initial approval and requesting a more detailed plan under Section 38V of the Act.
3. State Develops Detailed Plan: After receiving the NTCA’s feedback, the state government develops a comprehensive proposal outlining the proposed reserve’s boundaries, management strategies and considerations for local communities.
4. NTCA Conducts Evaluation: The NTCA meticulously evaluates the state’s revised proposal, considering ecological suitability, potential human-wildlife conflict and the feasibility of relocating settlements (if necessary).
5. NTCA Recommends or Denies: Based on their evaluation, the NTCA formally recommends the proposal to the state government if deemed suitable. However, if concerns exist, the proposal might be denied with specific guidance for improvement.
6. State Issues Notification: Upon receiving a positive recommendation, the state government proceeds with the official notification, formally declaring the area as a tiger reserve under the legal framework of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.

Constitutional Framework and Management:

The legal foundation for tiger reserve management in India rests on the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. A significant amendment to the Act was enacted in 2006, adding a new chapter (IVB) dedicated to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).This amendment superseded the Project Tiger initiative and established the NTCA as the apex body responsible for overseeing tiger conservation efforts in the country.

Functions and Responsibilities:

The 2006 amendment empowers the NTCA with various functionalities crucial for tiger reserve management. These include:

• Preparation of Tiger Conservation Plans (TCPs): The NTCA, in collaboration with state governments, develops TCPs for each tiger These plans serve as site-specific roadmaps, outlining strategies for:
• Habitat improvement: Strategies for maintaining and enhancing the natural habitat within there serve, ensuring the availability of essential resources for tigers and their prey base.
• Wildlife monitoring: Implementing robust monitoring programs to track tiger populations, assess threats and evaluate the effectiveness of conservation efforts.
• Anti-poaching measures: Establishing and enforcing stringent anti-poaching measures to deter illegal activities and ensure the safety of tigers and other
• Community engagement: Fostering collaboration with local communities living near tiger reserves. This includes promoting awareness about conservation goals, mitigating human-wildlife conflict and exploring sustainable livelihood options that coexist with wildlife conservation.

Core-Buffer Zonation:

The 2006 amendment introduced the concept of core-buffer zonation within tiger reserves:

• Core area: This designated inviolate space serves as the heart of the reserve, free from human activity and development. It offers critical refuge for tigers and their prey, fostering undisturbed breeding and ecological processes.
• Buffer area: This peripheral zone allows for controlled activities like:
• Eco-tourism: Responsible tourism experiences, conducted within designated areas and adhering to strict guidelines, can generate revenue for conservation efforts and       foster public appreciation for tigers.
• Research: Scientific research activities conducted within designated areas can contribute significantly to understanding tiger ecology and informing conservation
• Community development: Initiative same date supporting sustainable livelihoods for local communities residing near the buffer zone can help mitigate conflict and foster coexistence with wildlife.

Responsible Tourism in Tiger Reserves:

While the primary objective of tiger reserves lies in conservation, regulated tourism plays a crucial role in generating awareness, fostering public support and contributing to the economic well-being of local communities. However, responsible tourism practices are paramount to ensure minimal impact on the delicate ecological balance within these protected areas.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) outlines a set of comprehensive guidelines for tourism activities in tiger reserves. These guidelines prioritize:

• Minimizing area usage: Only designated areas within the buffer zone, not exceeding 20% of the total area, are permitted for tourism activities. This ensures the core habitat, crucial for tiger survival, remains free from human disturbance.
• Low-impact activities: Eco-tourism activities like jeep safaris, nature walks and bird watching are encouraged, while activities causing noise, pollution or disruption to wildlife are strictly prohibited.
• Responsible conduct: Tourists are expected to adhere to designated routes, maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and avoid littering or disturbing the natural