Project Tiger

Project Tiger was launched by the Indian Government in 1973-74. The aim of the project was to control as well as supplement the dwindling population of the Royal Bengal tigers in the country. Under the Project Tiger of India, specially constituted tiger reserves are being set up, which are sought to be replicas of the various bio-geographical regions of the country. The core areas of the reserves are made free of any human settlement, while the buffer areas are dedicated to 'conservation oriented' land use.

The objective behind the establishment of the Project Tiger is to conserve the entire eco-system in which tigers live. With the introduction of the subsequent 'Five Year Plans', the core and buffer zones in some of the tiger reserves is being enlarged. A number of other steps are also being taken, including intensification of protection and eco-development in the buffer zones, creation of additional tiger reserves and strengthening of the research activities.

Principles of Project Tiger
Each and every tiger reserve of India has been and is presently being developed as per the following principles:

Initially, nine tiger reserves were set up under the 'Project Tiger', namely

Today the number of tiger reserves, which come under the 'Project tiger' of India, has increased to 27. In the following lines, we are providing a list of the remaining 18 tiger reserves in India, along with the extensions that were done later:

Financial Aspect
Project Tiger of India was initially started as fully central government sponsored scheme. However, since 1980-81, the expenditure is being equally shared by the central government as well as the state government. World Wild Federation has also given an aid of US $ 1 million for the project, in the form of equipments, expertise and literature.

Achievements
The adoption of Project Tiger has resulted in recovery of the deteriorated habitat and consequently, an increase in the population of tigers. From 268 in 9 reserves (1972), the population of tigers has increased to 1576 in 27 reserves (2003). At the same time, the population of other wild animals in the tiger reserves has also increased.

Management of Project Tiger
The implementation of the project is in the hands of the respective State Governments. A committee, known as the 'Steering Committee', is responsible for the administration of the project. Each reserve has a 'Field Director', who has a team of field and technical personnel. Field execution is the responsibility of the 'Chief Wildlife Warden', at the state level, and of the 'Director', at the central level.

Efforts Being Undertaken Presently
Wireless communication system and outstation patrol camps have been set up to control poaching. Relocation of villagers residing in the core areas of the reserves is being undertaken on a large scale. Live stock grazing is being controlled and efforts are being undertaken to improve the water regime as well as the ground and field level vegetations.

Steps to be taken in Future