Release of Tigresses into Tiger Reserves in Rajasthan

March 29, 2023

In a recent meeting attended by Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav and Loksabha speaker Om Birla in New Delhi, a decision was taken to release one tigress each to Kota’s Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve and Bundi’s Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve in the state of Rajasthan. The decision was taken to increase the tiger population in the region and to improve the ecological balance of the area. Along with the tigresses, some other wild animals like Gaurs and wild dogs will also be released into the reserve area. Let’s delve into more details about the decision and its implications.

The Two Tiger Reserves

The Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve is located in Rajasthan’s Kota district and has an area of 759.99 km2. It was established in 2004 and comprises three wildlife sanctuaries: Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, National Chambal Sanctuary, and Jawahar Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary. The reserve is located in the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests and has a rugged and hilly terrain dominated by Dhok (Anogeissus pendula) trees. It is an important ecological zone for wildlife, including tigers, leopards, chinkaras, and crocodiles.

The Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve is situated in the southeastern part of the state in Bundi district. It represents both Vindhyan and Aaravalli elements and is in continuation with the buffer area of Ranthambore tiger reserve in the northeastern side and Mukundara Hills tiger reserve in the southern side. The Mez, a tributary of the Chambal river, passes through the tiger reserve. The terrain is mostly rugged and hilly, and it is part of the ‘Semi-arid’ Zone of India. The habitat is dominated by Dhok (Anogeissus pendula) trees.

Other Wild Animals to be Released

Gaurs and wild dogs will also be released in the reserve area besides the two tigresses. Gaurs are the largest wild cattle species and are found in India, Bhutan, and Nepal. They are herbivorous and feed on grass and leaves. They are an important prey species for tigers and leopards. Wild dogs, also known as Dholes, are a social species that lives in packs. They hunt cooperatively and feed on small to medium-sized prey.

Development and Security-related Works

The Union Forest and Environment Ministry is set to provide Rs 8 crore in funding for the security and developmental activities in both the tiger reserves. The funds will be used to improve the infrastructure of the reserves, including the construction of roads and watchtowers, and the purchase of vehicles and equipment for patrolling and monitoring. They will also be used for the conservation and protection of the wildlife in the reserves.

Proposal for River Cruise

Apart from the decision to release tigresses and wild animals, the proposal for starting a river cruise in Chambal from Kota Barrage to Jawahar Sagar was also discussed in the meeting. The river cruise will offer tourists a chance to experience the unique landscape of the Chambal river and its wildlife. However, the proposal needs approval from the Centre, as the river is home to a Gharial Sanctuary.

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