Understanding Project Tiger in Detail
Project Tiger , a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Government of India, was launched on April 1st, 1973 , during the tenure of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Its primary objective was to secure a viable population of Indian Tigers in their natural habitats, shielding them from the brink of extinction, and safeguarding ecologically significant areas as a natural heritage that represents diverse ecosystems across the country's tiger range. In the early 20th century, India boasted an estimated tiger population of about 40,000. However, by the 1970s, rampant hunting and habitat destruction had caused a severe decline, leaving a mere 1,827 tigers remaining. This alarming situation captured the attention of wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and the government, ultimately giving rise to the crucial conservation initiative known as Project Tiger. Objectives of Project Tiger : The objectives of Proj