Decks Cleared to Redraw Critical Tiger Habitat Boundary of Sariska Tiger Reserve
Key Points
Decks Cleared to Redraw Critical Tiger Habitat Boundary of Sariska Tiger Reserve: The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife has approved the proposal to expand the Sariska Tiger Reserve's Critical Tiger Habitat, pending Supreme Court approval. This decision is crucial for balancing conservation efforts with developmental needs, impacting GS Paper 3 (Environment and Ecology). Last Updated: 2025-07-11
Key Facts About Sariska Tiger Reserve Boundary Redrawing
- SC-NBWL approved redrawing boundaries of Sariska Tiger Reserve Critical Tiger Habitat.
- Final approval from the Supreme Court is awaited.
- The Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) is set to expand from 881.11 km² to 924.49 km².
- The buffer zone will reduce from 245.72 km² to 203.2 km².
- Changes address human disturbances such as village relocations.
- CTH is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- May benefit over 50 mining operations previously shut down.
- Sariska Reserve was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955.
India's Conservation and Development Balance
The expansion of the Sariska Tiger Reserve's Critical Tiger Habitat is a significant step in India's ongoing efforts to balance ecological conservation with economic development. By adjusting the boundaries, India aims to protect its rich biodiversity, including the Royal Bengal tigers and leopards, while also considering the needs of local industries such as marble and dolomite mining. This move aligns with India's strategic goals to enhance its environmental sustainability while fostering economic growth.
Related Government Schemes/Policies
- Project Tiger: Aims to conserve tigers in their natural habitat.
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Provides legal protection to wildlife and their habitats.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology - Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
- Prelims Angle: Questions could focus on the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the specifics of the Sariska Tiger Reserve.
- Mains Angle: Essays or analytical themes could explore the balance between conservation and development, and the role of legal frameworks in wildlife protection.
FAQ Section
- What is the Sariska Tiger Reserve? The Sariska Tiger Reserve is a protected area in Rajasthan, India, established in 1955, known for its population of Royal Bengal tigers and diverse wildlife.
- Why is the boundary redrawing important? Redrawing the boundaries is crucial for balancing conservation efforts with developmental pressures, potentially benefiting over 50 mining operations while protecting wildlife.
- What are the key features of the new boundary proposal? The proposal includes expanding the Critical Tiger Habitat from 881.11 km² to 924.49 km² and reducing the buffer zone from 245.72 km² to 203.2 km², addressing human disturbances.
Detailed Coverage
- SC-NBWL approved redrawing boundaries of Sariska Tiger Reserve Critical Tiger Habitat.
- Final approval from Supreme Court is awaited.
- CTH to expand from 881.11 km² to 924.49 km².
- Buffer zone to reduce from 245.72 km² to 203.2 km².
- Changes address human disturbances like village relocations.
- CTH protected under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- May benefit over 50 mining operations previously shut down.
- Sariska Reserve established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955.
- Rich in history with sites like Kankarwadi Fort and Pandupole Hanuman temple.
- Supports diverse fauna including Royal Bengal tigers and leopards.
- Boundary rationalization could facilitate marble and dolomite mines.
- Critical tiger habitats must remain free of human activity.
- Rajasthan government proposed exclusion of certain areas from CTH.
- NBWL emphasized avoiding detrimental developmental activities.
- Supreme Court directed boundary rationalization based on CEC recommendations.
- Concerns raised over impact on legal mine operators.