India's Wildlife Conservation Success: Rising Tiger and Lion Populations Amid Ongoing Challenges

 

India has made significant strides in wildlife conservation, as evidenced by the recent increase in the population of tigers and lions. These successes are largely attributed to initiatives like Project Tiger and Project Lion, which have been instrumental in protecting and revitalising these majestic species. 

Project Tiger, launched in 1973, has been a cornerstone of India's conservation efforts. It aims to protect tigers and their habitats, ensuring a stable and growing population. In the past decades, the number of tigers in India had alarmingly dwindled due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts. At one point, the tiger population was on the brink of collapse, with numbers dropping to as low as 1,411 in 2006. According to recent reports, India's tiger population has seen a remarkable increase, with the country now home to over 3,000 tigers, accounting for more than 70% of the global tiger population. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and community involvement in conservation efforts. 

Similarly, Project Lion, initiated to protect the Asiatic lion, has also shown promising results. The Gir National Park in Gujarat, the last refuge of the Asiatic lion, has witnessed a steady rise in lion numbers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Gir and his lion safari on World Wildlife Day highlighted the government's commitment to wildlife conservation. The Prime Minister's emphasis on kindness towards animals and his support for initiatives like 'Vantara', a wildlife conservation and rehabilitation centre, further bolsters these efforts. 

Despite these successes, challenges remain. In Odisha, for instance, human-wildlife conflicts persist, with elephants raiding farmlands and occasionally causing harm to people. Poaching continues to be a concern, threatening the delicate balance of ecosystems. The recent case of tigress Zeenat, who was translocated from Maharashtra to Odisha's Similipal Tiger Reserve in November 2024, highlights the ongoing struggle to manage wildlife in increasingly fragmented landscapes. Zeenat strayed out of Similipal and was brought back after 23 days. 

However, there are signs of improvement. The landmark hatching of Olive Ridley turtles on Gahirmatha beach is a testament to the positive impact of conservation efforts. India's zeal for nature conservation is also evident in its experimental project of importing African cheetahs to Indian forests. While the project has faced challenges, including the adaptation of cheetahs to the new environment, it represents a bold step towards enriching India's biodiversity. 

India's conservation journey is a blend of triumphs and trials. While the increase in tiger and lion populations is a cause for celebration, it also serves as a reminder of the need for sustained efforts to address the challenges that remain. By continuing to prioritise wildlife conservation, India can ensure a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals, preserving its rich biodiversity for future generations.