Bengaluru: According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), 74 tigers have died in the country since January this year, of which 11 deaths were recorded in Karnataka.
Five of the deaths were reported in the state’s Bandipur Tiger Reserve, four in Nagarhole Tiger Reserve and one each in Anechowkur Wildlife Range and DB Kuppe Range, it said.
In response to the alarming rate of tiger deaths and other wildlife concerns, Karnataka’s Forest Minister, Eshwara Khandre, has submitted a proposal to the Finance Department, seeking additional funds for the Forest Department. The proposal includes requests for financial support for various critical initiatives, such as afforestation, wildlife habitat management, and human-wildlife conflict prevention.
During a meeting with Finance Department officials at Vikas Soudha, Minister Khandre emphasised the importance of providing sufficient resources to address these pressing issues. He emphasized the submission of detailed proposals for afforestation in non-forest areas, as well as measures to prevent human-wildlife conflict. The minister expressed confidence that the Finance Department would recognise the necessity of allocating more funds to the Forest Department.
By securing additional funding, the Forest Department aims to bolster conservation initiatives and address the root causes of wildlife mortality. Enhanced afforestation projects, improved habitat management, and proactive measures to mitigate human-wildlife conflict are essential components of a comprehensive strategy to protect Karnataka’s tiger population.
