Madhya Pradesh has allocated funds to conserve tigers in buffer zones. This decision addresses the increasing tiger population outside reserves.
The tiger population in Madhya Pradesh has risen from 526 in 2018 to 785 in 2022. A significant portion of tigers reside outside protected areas.
The scheme includes chain-link fencing, wildlife protection, and fire safety measures. It also focuses on animal health, grassland development, and skill development for local communities.
Conservation activities in tiger reserves are currently funded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). The NTCA provides 60% of the funds, with the state contributing the remaining 40%.
NTCA funds primarily target core forest areas, leaving buffer zones underfunded. Delays in fund release from the central government further affect conservation efforts.
Madhya Pradesh faced 46 tiger fatalities in 2024. There were also eight human deaths due to tiger attacks in 2024-25.
The forest department has instructed field directors to identify and address man-animal conflict hotspots. They are also encouraged to develop model villages with innovative conservation efforts.
Field directors are conducting surveys to identify existing and emerging hotspots. Interventions like solar fencing in a cluster model are being considered.
Forest officials are collaborating with vocational training institutes to provide skills to local youth. This aims to build trust and reduce resentment towards wildlife.
Better conservation efforts are needed in villages along the river Banas. These villages are susceptible to man-animal conflict without proper interventions.