The Achanakmar Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Chhattisgarh has reported a notable increase in its tiger population. The All India Tiger Estimation (AITE) 2022 census recorded five tigers in ATR. As of the latest summer phase monitoring conducted in April, the tiger count has risen to ten. The current tiger population comprises three males and seven females, according to ATR Deputy Director U.R.
Discovery of Melanistic Leopard
In addition to the increase in tigers, the summer survey has confirmed the presence of a melanistic leopard, commonly known as a black panther. This rare species’ presence is celebrated as a significant achievement for the state. Ganesh, an IFS officer, expressed that this discovery reflects the success of ATR’s management efforts.
Conservation Efforts and Future Prospects
The growth in the tiger population is attributed to ATR’s ongoing conservation strategies. Continued efforts in this direction are expected to yield even better results. Such progress is anticipated to enhance forest productivity and boost eco-tourism, attracting tourists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. This growth will also provide more employment opportunities for the local community, benefiting wildlife enthusiasts, forestry students, and research scholars.
Monitoring and Safety Measures
ATR employs various measures to ensure the safety and monitoring of wildlife:
- Daily Patrolling: Foot guards and field protectors patrol 10 km daily across 108 beats in the core and buffer zones using the GPS-based M-STrIPES mobile app.
- Camera Traps: These are checked daily for accurate monitoring of tigers and other animals.
- Special Task Force: A dedicated team of STPF focuses on tiger monitoring, ensuring their safety through continuous patrols in all conditions.
- GIS Cell: Located in Kota, this cell handles the technical monitoring and analysis of data received weekly and monthly.
Habitat Development and Community Involvement
Under Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) Sudhir Kumar Agarwal’s guidance, ATR is engaged in habitat development activities, including pasture development and ensuring water availability during summer. Local community participation is crucial for nature conservation, with 31 forest management committees established to oversee wildlife protection and forest management. The active involvement of villagers aids in controlling fire safety, encroachment, illegal felling, and poaching.
Employment and Training Initiatives
ATR supports local youths and women by providing livelihoods through roles as drivers and guides in eco-tourism. Training programs are organized to enhance employment opportunities and encourage public participation in wildlife protection and park management. Youths who successfully complete the training are recognized by the Deputy Chief Minister of the state, Arun Sao, boosting their morale.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Plans
Civil society, including organizations like WWF, Nature and Biodiversity Association, ICICI Foundation, TDU Bangalore, and senior citizens of Bilaspur, is actively involved in ATR’s survey monitoring. Future plans include the construction of new TCPs, development of corridor plans, and new work plans to strengthen tiger monitoring and management.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What was the tiger population in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve (ATR) according to the AITE 2022 census?
- A) Three
- B) Five
- C) Seven
- D) Ten
- How many tigers are currently reported in ATR?
- A) Five
- B) Seven
- C) Eight
- D) Ten
- What rare species was confirmed during the recent summer survey in ATR?
- A) Snow Leopard
- B) Bengal Tiger
- C) Melanistic Leopard
- D) Indian Rhino
- What technology is used for daily patrolling in ATR?
- A) GPS-based M-STrIPES mobile app
- B) Satellite Imagery
- C) Drone Surveillance
- D) Thermal Cameras
- Who is the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) guiding the ATR habitat development efforts?
- A) Arun Sao
- B) Sudhir Kumar Agarwal
- C) Ganesh
- D) U.R.
- What role does the special team of STPF play in ATR?
- A) Wildlife Research
- B) Tiger Monitoring
- C) Community Training
- D) Habitat Development