The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change is set to launch the ‘Tigers outside Tiger Reserves’ project to better manage nearly 30% of India’s tigers that live outside notified reserves. 

• The project, with a budget of Rs 176.45 crore until 2026-27, aims to reduce human-wildlife conflict and combat poaching.

Key Features of the Project

• Implementation: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) will oversee the project.
• Funding: The ministry is seeking funds from the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), which supports afforestation and wildlife conservation.
• Based on tiger movement patterns and conflict trends, 80 forest divisions have been identified across 10 states for initial rollout.

Objectives of the Project

• Conflict Mitigation: Improve response mechanisms to human-tiger conflicts in high-risk areas like Wayanad (Kerala), Chandrapur (Maharashtra), and Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh).
• Enhanced Monitoring & Anti-Poaching Measures: Strengthen surveillance outside tiger reserves to prevent poaching.
• Human-Animal Conflict Mitigation: Addressing recurring conflicts between tigers and humans.
• Community Engagement:  Work with local communities to implement conservation-friendly livelihood programs.
• Habitat Improvement & Capacity Building: Enhance natural habitats and train forest officials for better wildlife management.

The Growing Challenge of Human-Tiger Conflict

• 30% of India’s estimated 3,682 tigers live outside notified reserves.
• High-risk areas: Wayanad (Kerala), Chandrapur (Maharashtra), and Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh).
• Human casualties: 378 deaths due to tiger conflict (2020-2024), with Maharashtra reporting the highest (218 deaths).
• Impact on other wildlife: Displaced tigers force leopards and other predators closer to human settlements.

Conclusion

This initiative aims to strengthen conservation efforts beyond traditional tiger reserves, ensuring better protection for both tigers and human communities. The project’s success will depend on effective monitoring, local engagement, and sustainable funding.