Bhopal: Wednesday, January 1, 2025, Madhya Pradesh continues to lead the nation in terms of forest and tree cover, upholding India’s cultural ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family). Rooted in traditions that venerate forests, rivers, and mountains, the state has taken significant steps to preserve biodiversity, ensuring that forests remain a legacy for future generations.
With a total forest and tree cover of 85,724 square kilometers and a forest cover of 77,073 square kilometers, Madhya Pradesh stands at the forefront of conservation efforts. The state boasts 30.72% forest area, which constitutes 12.30% of India’s total forest cover. Spread over 94,689 square kilometers, Madhya Pradesh’s forests are home to 24 sanctuaries, 11 national parks, and 8 tiger reserves, including Kanha, Pench, Bandhavgarh, Panna, Satpura, and Sanjay-Dubri, which are global landmarks in tiger conservation.
Tiger Conservation: Landmark Initiatives
Madhya Pradesh is actively advancing tiger conservation efforts. The Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary, located near the state capital Bhopal, was recently designated as the state’s 8th tiger reserve. Additionally, Madhav Wildlife Sanctuary in Shivpuri has received technical approval to become the 9th tiger reserve of the state.
The newly declared Ratapani Tiger Reserve covers a total area of 1,272 square kilometers, with 763 square kilometers designated as core areas for undisturbed tiger movement and 507 square kilometers as buffer zones for controlled human activity. Its proximity to urban Bhopal enhances the city’s emerging reputation as a “Tiger Capital.” This designation is expected to boost eco-tourism, creating new employment opportunities for local residents.
A Leader in Wildlife Conservation
Madhya Pradesh was the first state in India to implement the Wildlife Protection Act in 1973. The Satpura Tiger Reserve has earned a spot on UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites, reflecting the state’s commitment to preserving biodiversity.
To protect the rare white tigers, the Maharaja Martand Singh Judeo White Tiger Safari was established in Mukundpur. This facility is being developed into a world-class attraction. Notably, the Collarwali Tigress of Pench Tiger Reserve, famous for giving birth to 29 cubs in 8 litters, holds the global record as a “Super Mom.” Furthermore, the conservation of the hard ground barasingha (swamp deer) in Kanha Tiger Reserve has earned it recognition as Madhya Pradesh’s state animal.
Cheetah Reintroduction: A Historic Achievement
Thanks to the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the reintroduction of African cheetahs at Kuno National Park marked a historic milestone. This “dream project” has garnered global acclaim, highlighting India’s and Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to wildlife preservation.
Madhya Pradesh is also home to 3,300 leopards, which constitute 25% of India’s leopard population. Remarkably, while India has seen a 60% rise in leopard numbers, Madhya Pradesh has achieved an 80% increase. In addition to tigers, the state also leads in the populations of leopards, vultures, gharials, and bears. The rare freshwater dolphin is protected in the pristine Chambal River, underscoring Madhya Pradesh’s contribution to enhancing the nation’s biodiversity.
Reducing Human-Wildlife Conflict
With over 30% of its tigers roaming outside protected areas, Madhya Pradesh faces a heightened risk of human-wildlife conflict. To address this, the state has created special wildlife corridors and established 14 regional rescue squads along with a state-level rescue team to relocate animals to safer areas.
In an effort to mitigate the effects of such conflicts, the government has increased compensation for human casualties from ₹8 lakh to ₹25 lakh. The state ensures that compensation is disbursed within 30 days under the Public Service Guarantee Act. On average, such conflicts result in 80 human casualties, 15,000 livestock losses, and 1,300 injuries annually.
Elephant Task Force and Community Engagement
The growing elephant population in Madhya Pradesh has led to the formation of an Elephant Task Force, which focuses on sustainable management using advanced technologies such as AI and engaging local communities. Eco-tourism initiatives in elephant habitats are providing livelihood opportunities for nearby residents.
Conclusion
Madhya Pradesh, known as the “Tiger State” and “Leopard State” of India, is setting benchmarks in wildlife conservation. From expanding tiger reserves to reintroducing cheetahs and protecting endangered species like vultures, gharials, and dolphins, the state is a model of biodiversity preservation. By integrating advanced management techniques and fostering community participation, Madhya Pradesh ensures a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, reinforcing its position as a leader in conservation.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
Authentic news.
