Bandhavgarh marks International Tiger Day with conservation outreach programmes
Bhopal, July 29
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve on Wednesday marked International Tiger Day with a series of awareness and conservation programmes, highlighting the role of local communities and students in protecting wildlife.
The reserve, which has around 200 tigers, including nearly 165 adults, organised exhibitions for schoolchildren, awareness sessions with villagers, a forest march and honoured Junior Fire Watchers for their contribution to forest protection.
Speaking to IANS, Bandhavgarh Field Director Anupam Sahay said the reserve has played a key role in establishing Madhya Pradesh as the country's 'Tiger State'.
"Bandhavgarh is home to around 200 tigers, including nearly 165 adults. Our efforts are focussed not only on protecting tigers but also on involving local communities and children in conservation activities. Public participation is essential for sustaining wildlife conservation," Sahay said.
On this occasion, an exhibition was organised to educate students about tiger conservation, biodiversity and the ecological importance of forests. Students interacted with forest officials and learned about the need to protect wildlife habitats.
Villagers from areas around the reserve also took part in awareness programmes, where officials discussed their role in forest conservation and reducing human-wildlife conflict.
A forest march involving forest officials, frontline staff, students and local residents was organised to spread the message of tiger and environmental conservation.
Junior Fire Watchers, who assist the Forest Department in preventing and reporting forest fires, were felicitated for their services. Sahay said Bandhavgarh continues to be one of India's leading tiger reserves due to its healthy tiger population and rich biodiversity.
He added that the reserve has earned international recognition and remains a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts from across the world.
Sahay further said the programmes organised on International Tiger Day were aimed at creating greater awareness about wildlife conservation and encouraging people to become active partners in protecting forests and tigers.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Great to see the Junior Fire Watchers being honoured. These local heroes often go unnoticed. But I hope the government also provides them with better equipment and insurance. Real conservation happens on the ground, not just in boardrooms.
Bandhavgarh is a gem of Indian wildlife tourism. Visited last year and saw three tigers in one day! The forest department staff are doing an amazing job despite limited resources. More such awareness drives needed in buffer zones to reduce man-animal conflict.
The emphasis on involving villagers is crucial. Many conflicts arise because farmers lose livestock or crops. We need more compensation schemes and alternative livelihood programs alongside these awareness campaigns. Conservation cannot succeed without addressing human concerns.
As a wildlife enthusiast from Canada, I've always been fascinated by India's conservation stories. Bandhavgarh's community-based approach is inspiring! The way they engage children and local residents sets a global example. Keep up the great work, Madhya Pradesh! 🌍
Proud moment for MP! But let's not forget that tourism pressure is increasing. Need stricter regulation of safari vehicles and more eco-tourism guidelines. Also, what about the villages that were relocated from core areas? Their rehabilitation must be monitored properly. Just my two paise.
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