New Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan

• 08 Nov 2024

Why in News?

An expert committee advised urgent habitat conservation and prey base development before declaring Kumbhalgarh-Todgarh Raoli sanctuary as a Tiger Reserve.

• The Union government and National Tiger Conservation Authority provided in-principle approval in August 2023. The committee will continue to define core and buffer areas to safeguard biodiversity.

Key Points

• Committee’s Recommendation:
  • Habitat Limitations:
    • The current area lacks the capacity to support a sustainable tiger population. The report suggests adding more areas to the proposed reserve.
  • Village Relocation:
    • A strategic, voluntary relocation plan for sparsely populated villages within the proposed reserve area is recommended to secure undisturbed habitats and enhance villagers’ quality of life through sustainable resettlement.
  • Invasive Species Control:
    • Removing invasive weeds and planting native, palatable grasses are essential to restore suitable habitats for wild herbivores and promote biodiversity.
  • Prey Base Development:
    • Relocating 1,000–2,000 spotted deer (chital) is recommended to boost prey availability, benefiting the population of predators.
  • Anti-Poaching and Infrastructure:
    • Strengthening anti-poaching measures, wireless communications, and patrol roads is necessary.
  • Geographic Scope:
    • The Kumbhalgarh Tiger Reserve would span approximately 1,397 sq km across Rajsamand, Udaipur, Pali, Ajmer, and Sirohi districts in Rajasthan.

Spotted Deer (Chital)

• The chital, also known as the spotted deer or axis deer, is a graceful and elegant herbivore native to the grasslands and forests of India and Sri Lanka.
• They prefer open grasslands, savannas, and lightly forested areas.
  • IUCN Red list: Least Concern
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule II.