The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has taken a significant step in the realm of wildlife conservation by merging Project Tiger and Project Elephant under a new division called ‘Project Tiger and Elephant Division.’ This move is intended to optimize funding allocation and enhance conservation efforts by minimizing overlaps in areas where both programs operate.
While the amalgamation seeks to improve the efficiency of wildlife preservation, concerns have emerged over funding constraints. The combined budget for Project Tiger and Project Elephant in the fiscal year 2023-24 is lower than the previous year’s total. Experts worry that the decrease in financial support, coupled with uncertainties in fund allocation, could undermine the conservation of these iconic species.
Project Elephant, initiated in 1992 by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, focuses on providing financial and technical aid to states in their efforts to manage the free-ranging populations of wild Asian Elephants. The project’s primary goal is to ensure the long-term survival of elephants in their natural habitats, safeguarding both the animals and their critical habitats, including migration corridors. Furthermore, Project Elephant emphasizes research on elephant ecology and management, community awareness about conservation, and improved veterinary care for captive elephants.
On the other hand, Project Tiger, introduced on April 1, 1973, by the Government of India, concentrates on protecting the Bengal tiger and its habitats. The initiative strives to prevent the species’ extinction while preserving ecologically significant areas as part of the nation’s natural heritage. The project designates tiger reserves as core breeding areas, facilitating the migration of surplus tigers to neighboring forests. Adequate funding and dedication have been instrumental in protecting and rehabilitating tiger habitats under this ambitious endeavor.
However, wildlife experts express reservations about merging the two initiatives, as they address distinct challenges concerning tiger and elephant conservation. They fear that the lack of clarity in fund allocation might impede the successful preservation of both iconic species. The National Tiger Conservation Authority, already responsible for overseeing leopards and rhinos in certain regions, possesses experience in dealing with different species.
Considering the importance of conserving both tigers and elephants for India’s biodiversity, wildlife experts stress the need for transparent and sufficient funding to ensure the continued success of these conservation programs.