Mysuru: Correlation of biotic disturbance is account of cattle presence and forest resource dependency of human settlements within the core/critical tiger habitat are inimical factors for wild animal conservation, opined P S Somashekar IFS, Inspector General of Forests, National Tiger Conservation Authority.
He was speaking at the 16th conservation speak on “Reintroduction and restoration programme in Sariska Tiger Reserve – Rajasthan” organised by Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens at the auditorium.
Explaining his experience during the conservation efforts at Sariska he said that the disappearance of Tigers in Sariska during 2004 exemplifies the threat that exists to the isolated Tiger population. To address the problem the reintroduction and restoration programme was initiated in the region for the first time in the history of the country. The genetic stock of Tigers in Sariska and Ranthambore was found to be similar as both the parts are semi-arid tracts in Aravali hills and a series of talks on the issue gave birth to the idea of reintroduction of Tigers.
Further he said that considering the fact one male adult and one female was released to the Forest. They reacted indifferently to the situation where the male started baiting and the female stuck to a place which created anxiety among the officials and the public. However the animals were radio collared and after 4 years of the reintroduction, the Tiger gave birth to two cubs and are now well settled.
Speaking on the complications of conservation he said that due to land and other issues it was a big challenge to manage conserve the protected areas. Habitat destruction, dependency on natural resources, man animal conflict are real hurdle in habitat in habitat management. Village location was tough as it is very difficult to relocate a village and satisfy the people there as the Forest Rights also in favour of the people.
B P Ravi Executive Director Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens was present.
