Ratapani Tiger Reserve

• 07 Dec 2024

Source: PIB 

Why in News? 

Recently, the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary has been officially declared a tiger reserve, becoming the 8th such reserve in Madhya Pradesh and 57th tiger reserve in India. 

• It was approved by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) through the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).  

What are Some Key Facts About Ratapani Tiger Reserve? 

• It is situated near the Vindhya hills, the sanctuary encompasses the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
• The Ratapani Tiger Reserve encompasses a total area of 1,271.4 square kilometers, with a core area of 763.8 square kilometers and a buffer area of 507.6 square kilometers. 
• Flora and Fauna: 
  • Dry and moist deciduous, with teak (Tectona grandis) covering 55% of the area. 
  • Bamboo and evergreen Saja forests, enhancing tourist appeal. 
  • The sanctuary is home to more than 35 species of mammals, 33 species of reptiles, 14 species of fishes and 10 species of amphibians and over 40 Tigers. 

What is the Procedure to Designate Tiger Reserve in India? 

• Initial Proposal: The state government proposes a wildlife sanctuary or national park for designation as a tiger reserve, assessing ecological significance and tiger presence.  
  • A comprehensive plan is prepared, outlining management strategies and habitat requirements to support a viable tiger population. 
• Approval from NTCA: The proposal and conservation plan are submitted to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for review and evaluation.  
• In-Principle Approval: The NTCA grants in-principle approval, recognizing the area as critical for tiger conservation and eligible for funding. 
• Official Notification: The state government issues an official notification declaring the area as a tiger reserve under Section 38V the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, delineating core and buffer zones.  
  • Initiatives are launched to benefit local communities and promote sustainable livelihoods while managing the tiger reserve effectively.  
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuous monitoring by NTCA and state authorities assesses conservation effectiveness and adapts management strategies as needed. 

 

Different Types of Conservation Methods 

Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary, Tiger Reserve and Biosphere Reserve 

Feature	Wildlife Sanctuary	Tiger Reserve	Biosphere Reserve
Definition	An area dedicated to the protection of specific species of flora and fauna, and their habitats owned by the government or private entities.	A protected area specifically designated for the conservation of tigers and their habitats.	A designated area for the conservation of biodiversity, and sustainable development, including flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.
Management Authority	Managed by state governments or private organizations.	Managed by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under MoEF&CC.	Managed by the MoEF&CC in collaboration with local communities.
Public Access	Generally open to visitors with some restrictions on activities.	Access is regulated to minimize human disturbance; tourism is allowed in designated areas.	Limited public access; primarily for research and education purposes.
Legal Framework	Governed by the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.	Established under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 with specific provisions for tiger conservation.	Recognized under UNESCO's Man and Biosphere Programme; governed by national laws for conservation.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q1. At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006? (2021)

(a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change 

(b) Ministry of Panchayati Raj 

(c) Ministry of Rural Development 

(d) Ministry of Tribal Affairs 

Ans: (d)

Q2. Consider the following statements: (2018)

1. The definition of “Critical Wildlife Habitat” is incorporated in the Forest Rights Act, 2006. 
2. For the first time in India, Baigas have been given Habitat Rights. 
3. Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change officially decides and declares Habitat Rights for Primitive and Vulnerable Tribal Groups in any part of India. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only 

(b) 2 and 3 only 

(c) 3 only 

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (a)