Gujarat Government Formally Requests Female Tiger from National Tiger Conservation Authority
In a significant development for wildlife conservation, the Gujarat government has officially confirmed its request to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for a female tiger. This admission was made in the state assembly on Friday, following a representation submitted last year.
Background and Assembly Admission
The request stems from a tiger that has made Gujarat its home, establishing a territory spanning approximately 120 square kilometers around the Ratanmahal Sanctuary. The government's move was disclosed in a written reply tabled in the assembly, responding to a question raised by Vadgam Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani.
Mevani inquired whether it was true that the state government had made representations to the NTCA over the past two years to obtain a tigress. In its detailed response, the government stated that a formal representation was made to the NTCA on November 24 last year, specifically seeking a female tiger.
Current Status and Future Steps
When Mevani further asked about the measures taken in connection with this request, the government clarified that the matter is currently under consideration by the NTCA. A senior forest department official, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that Gujarat's Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Jaipal Singh, recently met with NTCA officials in Delhi and received some positive confirmation.
During this meeting, Singh was informed that Gujarat would be included in the ongoing national tiger census. This inclusion is a necessary step before any translocation of tigers can be considered. Officials from Gujarat have indicated that, once the census is completed, the months of May and June are deemed most conducive for translocation activities.
Preferred Sourcing and Conservation Strategy
Senior Gujarat officials have outlined their preferred option for sourcing the female tiger. They aim to acquire an animal from the wild, particularly one that is isolated, has dispersed from its original area, or is actively moving in search of a mating partner. This strategy aligns with broader conservation goals to enhance genetic diversity and support natural tiger populations in the region.
The government's proactive approach highlights its commitment to wildlife management and ecological balance, ensuring that the tiger's presence in Ratanmahal Sanctuary is sustainable and beneficial for the local ecosystem.
