Is Tamil Nadu Leading the Way in Tiger Conservation?

Chennai, July 29 (NationPress) Chief Minister M.K. Stalin stated that Tamil Nadu boasts significant pride regarding its achievements in tiger conservation, as the state continues to exemplify efforts in wildlife protection and habitat restoration.

In a message shared on his official ‘X’ account for International Tiger Day, Stalin expressed, "On #InternationalTigerDay, Tamil Nadu roars with pride. With 306 tigers, according to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), this accomplishment is attributed to our forest personnel and anti-poaching teams who safeguard critical habitats across challenging landscapes."

He emphasized that the state government has implemented numerous proactive measures to enhance conservation.

"To further strengthen conservation initiatives, 1,947 field posts have been filled. Our forces are being equipped with modern equipment, advanced technology, and are backed by committed veterinarians," he added.

A notable highlight was the report from the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR), which revealed a remarkable 28 percent increase in its tiger population for 2024–25. The tiger count rose from 129 in 2023–24 to 165, bringing joy to forest officials and wildlife advocates.

Covering 688.59 hectares — including 321 hectares of core zone and 367.59 hectares of buffer zone — MTR stands out as one of Tamil Nadu’s premier tiger reserves. Within the core zone, approximately 85 natural swamps play a crucial role by acting as essential water sources that sustain the reserve’s biodiversity.

Forest officials credited the substantial increase in tiger numbers to persistent anti-poaching initiatives, effective habitat restoration, and the large-scale eradication of invasive plant species. "If not eliminated, Lantana camara would have dominated the swamps and destroyed vital habitats. Removing it has helped restore ecological balance and improved conditions for both prey and predator species," an official noted.

Stalin also stressed the establishment of the Tamil Nadu Forest and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (TNWFCCB), a specialized unit designed to combat organized wildlife crime and safeguard endangered species. "In protecting our tigers, we are preserving the essence of our forests," he remarked.

With tiger reserves such as Mudumalai, Anamalai, and Sathyamangalam playing pivotal roles, Tamil Nadu is emerging as a national frontrunner in tiger conservation. The increase in tiger populations and ongoing conservation efforts have garnered acclaim from wildlife experts and activists nationwide.