The newly declared Madhav Tiger Reserve is witnessing a massive influx of tourists after the official declaration last month. Previously named Madhav National Park, the reserve had been facing negligible foot traffic, even recording a mere 1,500 visitors in the past year. But ever since March 11, close to 400 tourists have already made their way here, reflecting a huge boost in popularity.
A Boost for Tiger Conservation
Madhav National Park was officially announced as India’s 58th tiger reserve in early March, spanning a vast 1,651 sq km. It is a key component of the Ranthambore-Kuno-Madhav corridor, which is a critical habitat for India’s increasing tiger population.
Six tigers, consisting of three tigresses, one male, and two cubs, currently inhabit the reserve. The arrival of another male tiger has been confirmed by wildlife authorities, bringing the number up to seven. This is in a bid to support conservation efforts and facilitate sustainable tiger movement within the area.
Tourism on the Rise
Madhav Tiger Reserve Deputy Director Priyanshi pointed out that the park used to fail to attract visitors in the past because of the paucity of wildlife attractions. But now that it has gained tiger reserve status, the public has shown increased interest. Increasing numbers of wildlife lovers and tourists are now coming to the area to catch a glimpse of the majestic big cats in their natural environment.
Officials predict that the number of visitors will increase even further as word spreads. For this purpose, the government is planning infrastructure development within and around the reserve.
New Tiger to Be Introduced Soon
A tigress who was relocated from the Panna Tiger Reserve has also adapted well to her new surroundings in the Madhav Tiger Reserve. She has hunted twice since she was let loose, suggesting a smooth integration into the wild.
Authorities are now making arrangements to bring in yet another male tiger to augment the tiger population in the reserve. Earlier, the authorities had envisaged taking a tiger from Pench Tiger Reserve, but they have now approached Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve to find a suitable candidate.
“Most likely, the next tiger will now come from Bandhavgarh,” asserted an official from Madhav Tiger Reserve.
The Role of Tiger Reserves in India
India has 3,681 tigers, according to the 2022-23 population estimate. India’s tiger population is spread over five large landscapes: the Shivalik Hills, Central Indian Highlands, Western Ghats, North Eastern Hills, and the Sundarbans.
The concept of tiger reserves was initiated in 1973 under Project Tiger for nine reserves. Project Tiger has expanded to encompass 58 reserves since then, creating a safe area for tigers and also managing human activities with the help of buffer and core zones.
Madhya Pradesh dominates India with 785 tigers, then comes Karnataka (563), Uttarakhand (560), and Maharashtra (444). Madhav Tiger Reserve’s height is set to further reinforce the state leadership in tiger protection.
With increased tourist interest and strengthened conservation efforts, Madhav Tiger Reserve is set to emerge as a major wildlife destination. With more tourists pouring into the area, authorities are determined to maintain a balance between tourism and long-term conservation objectives, providing a healthy ecosystem for tigers and other wildlife.
