GUWAHATI: Exhibiting an excellent conservation model, Manas National Park in Assam has witnessed a 3-fold increase in its tiger population in the last 10 years. This is thanks to the efforts of the government, agencies, NGOs and local communities.
“From ten tigers in 2010, the big cat population has trebled to 30 now, as per the latest estimation. In 2003, the tiger count was just a single in Manas which is also one of India’s earliest tiger reserves,” reported an English daily.
“I am very pleased to observe the cohesion, ownership and partnership of government and non-government entities to bring the park back to the current state. This is not seen anywhere in Assam or elsewhere in the country,” said Assam’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forest AM Singh.
“The Manas National Park has surprised all with its tiger numbers in 2019. During times of conflict, the park infrastructure was badly damaged. The whole park was left open due to a lack of patrol by forest staff who were harmed by armed miscreants at times. This led to thinning of populations of almost all species and loss of habitats due to severe human disturbances,” said Aaranyak’s statement.
Things began to change in 2005 when local community organisations were encouraged to help preserve the park. Many tigers till then were falling prey to poachers.
But things are changing now and this park is doing its bit to preserve India’s national animal.
