Telangana calls for collective action to protect tigers on International Tiger Day

HYDERABAD: Telangana Forest, Environment and Endowments Minister Konda Surekha has called upon every section of society to actively participate in tiger conservation, stressing that the Earth is home not only to humans but to all living beings. She urged citizens to take collective responsibility for protecting forests, wildlife and biodiversity for future generations.

The minister was speaking at the International Tiger Day celebrations held at the Telangana State Forest Academy in Dulapally, Medchal-Malkajgiri district, on Wednesday. She inaugurated a photo exhibition on tiger conservation and watched a short documentary highlighting efforts to protect the endangered big cats.

Addressing the gathering, Konda Surekha said International Tiger Day, observed annually on July 29, was launched at the St. Petersburg Tiger Summit in Russia in 2010 to create global awareness about tiger conservation. She described the tiger as a symbol of healthy forests, adding that protecting the species also means safeguarding forests, ecosystems, biodiversity and the future of humanity.

Expressing concern over the decline in tiger populations due to poaching, habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trade, the Minister recalled that the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and Project Tiger, launched in 1973 under the leadership of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, laid the foundation for India’s conservation success. She noted that India is now home to nearly 75 per cent of the world’s wild tiger population and currently has 58 tiger reserves.

Highlighting Telangana’s contribution, the minister said the Amrabad and Kawal Tiger Reserves have emerged as important tiger habitats in the country. She said improved water resources, habitat development and modern protection measures have led to a significant increase in tiger numbers in the Amrabad Tiger Reserve.

She also said the state has initiated a tiger reintroduction programme in the Kawal Tiger Reserve. As part of the initiative, Kawal has been linked with Maharashtra’s Tadoba Tiger Reserve to facilitate the natural movement of tigers and strengthen the landscape for long-term conservation. The Forest Department is also undertaking awareness programmes to encourage greater public participation in environmental protection, she added.

Calling for sustained efforts to preserve forests and wildlife, the Minister appealed to citizens to work together to leave behind a greener Telangana for future generations. She also urged every citizen to support the Forest Department in protecting tigers.

Addressing trainee forest officers from Maharashtra, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala undergoing training at the Forest Academy, Konda Surekha encouraged them to serve with commitment, integrity and dedication in conserving the country’s forest wealth.

During the event, the Minister presented commendation certificates and cash awards to Forest Department personnel for their outstanding contribution to forest and wildlife conservation. She also distributed certificates and prizes to students who won painting competitions organised as part of the International Tiger Day celebrations.

Among those present were Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Vinay Kumar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor Danda Rajireddy, PCCF (Development) Ratnakar Jauhari, Telangana State Forest Academy Director Priyanka Varghese, CCF N. Kshitiz, Tiger Cell Research Scientist Ayan Sadhu, Amrabad Tiger Reserve Field Director Prasad, Kawal Tiger Reserve Field Director Shantaram, and other senior Forest Department officials.