Tiger Safari not to be permitted in core tiger habitat area: SC
The Supreme Court of India has recently passed a landmark judgment, directing that Tiger Safari shall not be permitted in the core or a critical tiger habitat area. This decision comes as a significant step towards conserving the dwindling tiger population in the country and protecting their natural habitats. The Court’s observation highlights the need to strike a balance between human activities and wildlife conservation, particularly in areas where tiger reserves are located.
The Court’s directive is a response to the growing concern over the impact of human activities on tiger habitats. There are numerous instances where sites for pilgrimage are situated within Tiger Reserves, leading to a huge influx of devotees and resulting in significant disturbance to the wildlife. The Court noted that such activities can have devastating effects on the tiger population and the ecosystem as a whole. By prohibiting Tiger Safari in core tiger habitat areas, the Court aims to minimize human-tiger conflict and ensure the long-term survival of these majestic creatures.
The judgment is a welcome move for conservationists and environmentalists who have been advocating for stricter measures to protect tiger habitats. The core or critical tiger habitat area is the primary habitat of tigers, and any human activity in these areas can disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem. By keeping these areas free from human disturbance, the Court’s directive will help to reduce the risk of tiger-human conflict, which is a major threat to tiger conservation.
The Court’s observation also highlights the need for sustainable tourism practices in and around tiger reserves. While tourism can be an effective tool for promoting conservation and supporting local communities, it must be managed in a responsible and sustainable manner. The Court’s directive emphasizes the importance of ensuring that tourism activities do not harm the environment or disturb the wildlife.
The judgment is also significant in the context of India’s commitment to tiger conservation. The country is home to over 70% of the world’s tiger population, and the government has launched several initiatives to protect and conserve tigers. The Court’s directive is a crucial step towards achieving these conservation goals and ensuring the long-term survival of tigers in their natural habitats.
The impact of the Court’s directive will be far-reaching, and it is expected to have significant benefits for tiger conservation. By prohibiting Tiger Safari in core tiger habitat areas, the Court’s judgment will help to reduce human-tiger conflict, protect the natural habitats of tigers, and promote sustainable tourism practices. The judgment is also a reminder of the importance of balancing human activities with wildlife conservation and the need to prioritize the protection of endangered species like tigers.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s directive is a landmark judgment that will have a significant impact on tiger conservation in India. By prohibiting Tiger Safari in core tiger habitat areas, the Court has taken a crucial step towards protecting the natural habitats of tigers and promoting sustainable tourism practices. The judgment is a reminder of the importance of balancing human activities with wildlife conservation and the need to prioritize the protection of endangered species like tigers.
As the country moves forward with its conservation efforts, it is essential to ensure that the Court’s directive is implemented effectively. This will require the cooperation of state governments, conservation agencies, and local communities. By working together, we can ensure the long-term survival of tigers in their natural habitats and promote a culture of sustainability and conservation.
About the Author
