Tiger Conservation In India The Challenges And Prospects

The tiger is one of the largest and most inspiring of predators in the world

. This species undoubtedly fascinates every eye it meets. But apart from the elegance and glamour it exudes, tigers are also important as they are an indicator species this means that they determine the health of the ecosystem in which they reside. A decline in the number of tigers in a particular ecosystem thus bodes badly for the entire ecosystem. Another reason why we need to save the tiger is that our forests are water catchment areas. In such a scenario, tiger conservation initiatives are of utmost importance.

Less than a hundred years ago, tigers roamed free all across India and the sub-continent. But growing human populations, particularly since the 1940s, have fragmented the tiger's former range The clearing of forests for agriculture and industrial development has pushed the tiger out of its habitat and into smaller areas. Since tigers need large territories, this indicates a greater need for tiger conservation by paying special attention to its habitat requirements.

Large-scale habitat destruction and a decline of prey populations due to this destruction of habitat are the major long-term threats to the existence of the dwindling tiger population in the country.

Another major threat to the species and a hindrance to tiger conservation itself are the practices of hunting, poaching and illegal trade. For over a thousand years, tigers have been hunted as status symbols, for decorative item such as wall and floor covering, souvenirs and curios, and for use in traditional Asian medicines. Hunting for sport has probably caused the greatest decline in tiger populations. In the early 1990s, trade in tiger bone for traditional Chinese medicines threatened to drive tigers to extinction in the wild. Poaching is the largest immediate threat to the remaining tiger population.

As tigers continue to lose their habitat and prey species, they are increasingly coming into conflict with humans as they attack domestic animals and sometimes people. In retaliation, tigers are often killed by angry villagers. This is yet another hindrance to tiger conservation efforts. Towards this aim of reducing human-animal conflict, forest departments and wildlife conservation NGOs around tiger areas encourage peaceful resolution and alternate livelihoods for villagers, alongside other peaceful attempts to mitigate conflict.

The conservation of tigers is an integral aspect of environment conservation. One of the most prominent programmes working towards conservation of the tiger is the Tiger Conservation Programme.

by: Shomik Gupta

POST COMMENT

Mobile App Development And The Entry Into App Store Exclusive Designs In Indian Wedding Outfits And Ethnic Wear Christmas Tree Hire And The Benefits Of Alternative Plants In The Home Never Miss Admission And Recruitment Alerts In India Great Gift Options For Men And Women Online A Story Of Time Travels And The Parallel Galaxies - Weather Map Water Lanterns: Origins, Usage And Evolution Get Discounted Voucher Coupon Code And Comprehensive Reviews From The Best Company Rising Homemade Beauty Tips For Face And Hair Quick And Fast Loans Today Choices For Personal Loans Quick Or Same Day Pay Day Loans Enjoy Your Stay With All The Smart And Lavishing Facilities In Leading Boutique Hotels Test And Tag Adelaide: Checking Your Electrical System Finding The Right Repair And Cleaning Service For The Right Job