Spurt in tiger sighting draws tourists to Sunderbans

TNN | Oct 31, 2012, 03.18AM IST KOLKATA: Tiger sightings at Pirkhali have suddenly led to a rush of tourists to Sunderbans. The mangrove forest, which witnesses a surge in the number of visitors during the Pujas in October, is grappling with the additional load which it wasn't ready to handle. The forest department expects the number of tourists to be around 40,000 more than last year and is considering ways to tackle the crowding and the pollution that it has been leading to. Two successive tiger sightings at Pirkhali on Saptami and Ashthami led to a cheer among tourists, most of whom return disappointed from Sunderbans where spotting a big cat is a rare occurrence. On Monday, yet another tiger was sighted near Dobanki. "The word seems to have spread quickly for we have been getting loads of tourists ever since. Everybody is keen to visit Pirkhali, though there hasn't been any sighting there since October 22. On Lakhsmi puja, some tourists encountered another tiger. We have been trying to tell tourists that tiger sighting is a matter of chance and that they must enjoy the trip around the mangrove forest, rather than just expect to see a tiger," said Subrat Mukherji, field director of Sunderbans Tiger Reserve (STR). Sightings go up during the October-December, the post-monsoon period. Even though they are far less than other forests, this is the time to visit Sunderbans in case you are keen on sighting a big cat, according to experts. "The post-monsoon period is usually the best for tiger sighting. Even though not very frequent, it should continue till November-end," said Pranabesh Sanyal, former director of STR. But what has left the STR authorities worried is the sudden crowding and the pollution. Scores of boats and launches have been sailing into the rivers that criss-cross the islands. While the mangrove forest receives around 80,000 tourists from October to January, this time the figure could touch 1,30,000, said officials. The number of tourists visiting the Sunderbans is around 1,50,000 a year. With tourist movement being restricted to the Sajnekhali-Pakhirala-Satjelia area, the pollution load could affect the forests, officials fear. "Tourists spend most of their time either sailing or roaming the fringes of the forests. They tend to litter these areas with plastic plates and bags. We have deployed additional forest guides this year to advise tourists on the dos and don'ts. Also, we are working on developing the areas which are not frequently visited. Places like Boney Camp and Kalash have accommodation and transportation facilities. Even though they are outside the STR area, they have a fair concentration of tigers and sightings are not rare," explained Mukherji. Tour operators said the tourism zone needs to be expanded at once to check pollution and crowding. "The tourist season witnesses a sudden concentration of visitors in a small area where tourists are allowed. It exceeds the carrying capacity of the forest. Emission from the boats, plastics and noise pollution are major problems. This year, it has been even worse due to the rise in the number of tourists. It's time to divert tourists to Boney Camp and Kalas which are pristine and have good facilities," said Asit Biswas, a tour operator. Plastics and noise pollution were a major threat to Sunderbans, according to Joydip Kundu, member, state wildlife board. "The forest department should immediately frame rules for controlled tourism. Pollution needs to be checked, especially during the peak season," said state wildlife advisory board member Joydip Kundu. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/Spurt-in-tiger-sighting-draws-tourists-to-Sunderbans/articleshow/17027041.cms

'Give forester killed in tiger attack status of martyr'

TNN | Oct 31, 2012, 06.04AM IST JAIPUR: Stunned by the sudden death of assistant forester Gheesu Singh in a tiger attack on last Thursday, the Rajasthan Forest Subordinate Services Union has demanded status of martyr for all foresters who die on duty. The union has given a written memorandum to chief minister Ashok Gehlot and forest and tourism minister Bina Kak. Gheesu Singh was attacked by a tiger while he was on duty at the Ranthambore national park. The tiger, identified as T-24, pounced on him, caught him by the neck and dragged him away to a bush about 25 metres away. Reports suggest that Gheesu Singh was walking between two groups of labourers who had gone to the forest to repair a road. Singh died instantly. According to sources in the forest department, "The union has demanded the status of martyr on the lines of policemen who are granted the status when they die on duty. Our services are equally fraught with danger. We have to often go into perilous terrains to protect forests and wildlife. In such a situation we must also be given the status of martyr if any of us gets killed on duty." Gheesu Singh was a resident of Amrapura village on the Samod Ki Balaji road in Chomu. He is survived by three sons, an aging father and a wife. "I have been to his house and the family's condition is pathetic. Gheesu Singh was the only earning member in the family. His youngest son is paralyzed and terminally ill. His eldest son is pursuing graduation while the other is in class X. His father is 80 years old," said Rajpal Singh, member of state wildlife board. So far Gheesu Singh's family has been given Rs 20 lakh as a special measure by chief minister Ashok Gehlot and another Rs 4 lakh by forest department and the Ranthambore hotels association. Kak has also promised a government job for the next of kin of Gheesu Singh. In fact, the first voice for status of martyrdom was raised by DV Durrani of the Sariska Tiger Foundation. On the day of the attack Durrani demanded that the state call Gheesu Singh a martyr. "Gheesu Singh was a dedicated and a committed person. Moreover, he was on duty when the tiger attacked him. In such a situation policemen are given the status of a martyr so why should foresters not be treated similarly. More often than not they are exposed to similar or even more dangerous situations," he said. The demand for martyr's status for Gheesu Singh, the first forester to be killed in such a manner, has been gaining ground since the past week. "Even I will suggest to the state government as a member of the state wildlife board that in cases where an exemplary forester is killed on duty he should be given the status of a martyr and all such facilities that are given to a martyr should be granted to them as well," added Rajpal Singh. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/Give-forester-killed-in-tiger-attack-status-of-martyr/articleshow/17028202.cms

MP will be known for its tourist destinations: Puar

Bagish K Jha, TNN | Oct 31, 2012, 04.36AM IST INDORE: Listing tourism as one of the key focus areas of state, tourism minister Tukojirao Puar said on Tuesday that Madhya Pradesh will no longer be known only as India's heartland of India and for its tiger reserves, but will be also known for its hill stations, archaeological wealth, scenic forests, water bodies and religious places. "To make it possible, the state has made due amendments in its tourism policy by giving industry status to the sector. Now government will give capital subsidy up to 25% of investment, encourage budget hotels at religious places, have fast track clearance for investment above Rs 10 crore and have a 24X7 supply of power," said Paur adding that ten special tourism zones have been declared in state. The steps by state governments got good response from investors. Nine MoUs worth Rs 1,192 crore were signed on Tuesday and process is underway to finalize proposals worth Rs 7,215 crore of 14 investors. "Once implemented, the MoUs will provide jobs to around 20,800 youths of the state," said MD of MPSTDC Raghvendra Singh adding that efforts are being made for air connectivity between all the districts of state. CEO and MD of Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), Amitabh Kant said that MP is unique destination because availability of so many tourist product in such close proximity. "Need to focus on infrastructure and skill development," said Kant. Subash Verma, president of Associations of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) said that MP has very good religious places and tourism department should focus on conversance of religious tourist into leisure tourism. "Domestic tourist is base of tourism and they should be given some sort of incentive," said Verma. However, Subhash Goyal, chairman of STIC Travel Group of Companies said that policy is best, but state should focus on creating a brand. He stressed that one out of every nine will be created in tourism sector by 2020. "Tourism can provide local job and check migration," said Goyal. Secretary to chief minister of Maharashtra, Ashish Kumar Singh said that synergies between states are way to go forward. "India is major tourist generator today, with improving connectivity among tourist destinations across the state can divert Indian, who are going abroad to local destinations," he said. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/indore/MP-will-be-known-for-its-tourist-destinations-Puar/articleshow/17027588.cms

Experts question snake bite theory

Vivek Deshpande : Nagpur, Mon Oct 29 2012, 01:39 hrs Though investigators have declared that the death of pregnant tigress in the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) was possibly due to snake bite, facts don’t appear to support the theory, say experts. Experts say an animal as strong as a tiger won’t die so soon even when bitten by a snake like cobra. Incidentally, cobra poison is neurotoxic and not haemotoxic. Vipers are known to have a haemotoxic effect, but even humans can survive without treatment for days after bite. “Even a cobra bite will take about 8-10 hours for the tiger to die. But in that case, the body will be fully swollen. In this case, if there was no swelling, it is unlikely that it was a case of snake bite,” said Vivek Sharma, a snake expert from Jabalpur. “The effects of a saw-scaled viper bite may be more disastrous, but the snake goes into hibernation during this time of the year.” TATR field director Virendra Tiwari said, “Snake bite is the doctor’s opinion.” P D Kadukar, the veterinary doctor who performed the post-mortem, said, “The body was fresh, there was no swelling and it wasn’t even smelling foul. The tigress had died around 2 am. We haven’t said it was a viper that bit it. But it definitely seems like a snake bite going by the haemotoxic effect and internal bleeding.” As far as blood clotting is concerned, pesticides like warfarin and even rat poison are known to stop it. Says Sharma: “Presuming that a viper had bitten it many days ago, the animal’s health should have weakened over time. It wouldn’t have been in a position to kill an animal as strong and big as a sambhar, which the tigress — apparently strong till her death — is said to have freshly consumed.” Snake expert Rom Whitaker said, “If the tigress was bitten, she would be in no condition to hunt. She would probably not move for at least two or three days. Russell’s viper venom can cause clotting as well as non-coaguability of blood but other pathological conditions could result in the same symptoms. It is hard to determine whether an animal died of snake bite without carrying out complex lab tests.” Tiwari and Kadukar say, “We have sent the viscera for forensic tests.” http://www.indianexpress.com/news/experts-question-snake-bite-theory/1023346/0

Space for 30% more tigers in core areas

Chetan Chauhan, Hindustan Times New Delhi, October 28, 2012 Tigers reduce their area of dominance provided there is enough prey population, a new government study has said, giving hope to wildlife scientists that core areas of 41 tiger reserves in India can house around 2,400 tigers, an additional of 35%. The Dehradun based Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has found that 7 to 20 tigers can live in 100 sq kms of a forest area as compared to earlier assumption that a tiger has a minimum area of dominance of around 10 sq kms. "The exclusivity as thought earlier is not there," YV Jhala, a senior scientist with WII who has been spear heading tiger population estimate across India for the last seven years. "If there is enough prey population the tigers survive in a smaller areas" The study conducted as part of new estimation of big cat population in the tiger reserves across India is a huge fillip to wildlife researchers as it shows that India can provide home to around 70% of world's tiger population (around 3,200) by 2020. The WII study shows that most of the tiger reserves in India have a potential to increase the big cat density by 20 to 25% in the next four to five years with good breeding population. The study says that the terrai tiger belt in Uttarkhand and Uttar Pradesh, which as of now haves 325 big cats can support around 455 tigers. The Central India, which has 560 tigers, has potential to keep up to 840 tigers. The Western Ghats can have 700 tigers as compared to 533 it has now. Jhala said that the 82,000 sq km of tiger-land having 1,706 tigers could home 2,400 tigers. He also suggested wild to wild relocation of tigers to make optimum use of good tiger habitats. But reaching that figure will not be easy as most of the tiger habitats are witnessing gradual decay and the prey population is becoming victim of growing human influence. "The estimate is bare minimum but the potential but largely depend on the health of the habitat and its linkages with other wildlife areas," Jhala said. Environment ministry officials accuse the state governments of being slow in notifying the forest corridors linking two tiger habitats. These corridors are essential for growth of tiger population as it allows them free movement from a densely population tiger reserve to a less densely populated one. http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Space-for-30-more-tigers-in-core-areas/Article1-951286.aspx

Plea to include parts of Karbi Anglong in KNP

SIVASISH THAKUR GuwAHATI, Oct 28 – The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has strongly recommended bringing a part of the contiguous belt of forests to the south of Kaziranga -- including the North Karbi Anglong wildlife sanctuary -- under Kaziranga Tiger Reserve for ensuring better protection to Kaziranga’s wildlife. Conservationists believe that the absence of security in the nearby Karbi Anglong forests which are widely used by animals to escape the recurring floods warrant such a move. The NTCA recommendation came after the devastating floods that had hit Kaziranga in last June-July that claimed over 600 animals. It was part of a number of short-term as well as long-term measures recommended by the NTCA and endorsed by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests. The Union Minister for Environment and Forests, Jayanthi Natarajan, in her letter dated July 18, 2012, to Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, endorsed the NCTA recommendations, saying that the measures required ‘urgent implementation’ by the State Government. The vulnerability of Kaziranga’s wildlife during floods was exposed again during September’s floods, with poachers taking advantage of the absence of security arrangements in the Karbi Anglong forests and massacring a number of rhinos in quick time. “Kaziranga’s ecosystem is highly dependent on preservation of forests in the Karbi Anglong hills along with the corridors that are crucial for the movement of animals,” Dr PJ Bora of WWF-India who has worked extensively under its Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape Programme, says. In the past, the forests of Karbi Anglong and the grasslands of Kaziranga formed a single contiguous ecological belt with very few human habitations. But the gradual opening up of the area on the southern side of NH-37 resulted in expansion of settlements, tourist facilities and tea gardens – damaging the contiguity of the plains and the hills. As another long-term measure, the NTCA suggested carrying out a flood vulnerability analysis for the tiger reserve and surrounding areas in the GIS domain with an alert system. “It can also have collaboration with the Central Water Commission on a day-to-day basis during the flood season,” it noted. A crucial short-term measure ignored by the forest authorities related to Army deployment. The NTCA recommended deployment of Army personnel along with vehicles and boats from 4 Corps, Tezpur, to assist the tiger reserve management for a period of three months to deal with emergency situations. “Since the flood situation continues, it is important to engage the Army for assisting the park management up to October 31, 2012. The cost incurred towards this may be provided to the State through hundred per cent Central assistance under Project Tiger…a control room may also be set up at Bagori in this context, with an MoU executed between the Army and the Forest Department for joint action,” the NTCA noted. The short-term measures in the NTCA report which preceded an on-the-spot assessment visit by an NTCA team called for strict regulation of traffic on NH-37 by erecting sufficient number of barricades/speed-breakers, and 24X7 protection in the adjoining forests of Karbi Anglong during flood time. Another recommendation called for construction of flyovers on NH-37 in portions which were traditionally used by animals to cross over to the adjoining Karbi Anglong forests. Providing speed boats and inflatable rubber boats, providing at least five four-wheel drive jeeps along with funding support for their operation and maintenance; five trained koonki elephants for patrolling in the dried-up areas’ supply of medicine and doctors for field staff/local people and veterinary care to wild animals besides disposal of carcasses; constitution of a coordination committee to oversee rescue/relief operations and protection under the Chief Wildlife Warden with local NGO and NTCA representatives, Army, etc., supply of ration through Tiger Conservation Foundation; and preparing a ‘post-flood action plan’ to restore damaged infrastructure were some of the measures. http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=oct2912/at094

The forest of musings

K. PRADEEP Padma Mahanti, as Deputy Director of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, played an important role in developing its eco-tourism model. Her compilation of poems, Mist and Musings, tells of her experiences there The Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) won the U.N.-India Biodiversity Governance award, instituted by the Government of India and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), for the best managed protected area of the country recently. Padma Mahanti, IFS, who served as Deputy Director, PTR, was hugely responsible for initiating innovative concepts of eco-tourism and in following up effectively some of the programmes introduced at the PTR. Padma was member secretary of the Periyar Foundation. She won the Green Guard Anti-Poaching award in 2007. Padma, who is now Regional Passport Officer in Odisha, recently released a book of poems titled Mist and Musings, which narrates in verse and interludes in prose the story of her life, experiences in Periyar. In an e-mail interview Padma shares her memories of Periyar, her thoughts on wildlife management and more. Excerpts from the interview. What does Periyar mean to you? Periyar was my first independent posting after my training at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). And it was love at first sight. The streams that came to life during monsoon fascinated me. I still dream of them. There’s a deep connect with Periyar. Were you always a wildlife enthusiast or did Periyar transform you? Wildlife interested me more than the other subjects of forest management. That’s why I went ahead to complete my post-graduate diploma in wildlife management in 2005. Periyar gave an opportunity to implement whatever I was trained for in the WII. As a wildlife professional, and not as a poet, how do you evaluate your experience here?The job must have been challenging too? Yes. You had to be on guard always. The problems were undefined. From human-wildlife conflict, safety of tourists, forest fire, poaching, sandal smuggling, pressure on forest land, to the issues of the forest dwellers dependent on the park management for their livelihood, each day was a challenge. Looking back was it worth the effort? We achieved a lot, but achievements are not always quantifiable. They are often special moments, endearing memories. And my tenure in Periyar was full of such instances. Yes, looking back it was satisfactory. Training local youth in tiger monitoring through the use of camera traps and GPS, reviving nature clubs, revisiting and modifying all eco-development committees with a plan for five years were some great initiatives. The tourist is the subject of one of your poems. He can be a source of concern in a protected sanctuary. Were the tourists generally insensitive? In the Periyar Tiger Reserve tourism was still low impact as it is carried out in about 2.5 sq. km area of the entire reserve. The rest is eco-tourism in its real sense. However, there used to be mindless jeep rides in parts of the tiger reserve by other agencies. I hope it has stopped now or at least regulated. What steps would you suggest to balance this tourist-wildlife issue, especially in the wake of the new rules framed with regard to tiger sanctuaries? In the present scenario tourism has to be used as a tool to unite voices for conservation. It should be low impact and responsible; nature friendly and totally guided. Vehicles should never be allowed inside protected areas except the buffer zone. Sensitisation classes should be arranged for tourists before they enter the tiger reserves. They should be made to realise that tourism inside the tiger reserves is a sensitive and responsible job. The tribes were successfully integrated into the protection and conservation of the jungles. How do you view this move? Periyar has six indigenous tribes, Mannans, Paliyans, Uralis, Malapandarams, Malayarians and Ulladans. Efforts like organising the Mannan and Paliyan fishermen into eco-development committees and regulation of fishing activities inside the park were taken up. They were trained in research, wildlife health monitoring; protection of park and in hospitality sector. In Periyar all eco-tourism programmes are protection-oriented and each one was need based. My efforts were to explore linking of local economy like pepper cultivation in the tribal hamlets directly with the global market by weaning out middlemen. Periyar Foundation played a pivotal role in the experiment of pepper export by Vanchivayal tribal colony to Germany. Poachers were also transformed ? In 1998, a group of 22 cinnamon bark smugglers in Periyar, were transformed in mainstream society. In 2004, when I joined Periyar as the Additional Deputy Conservator of Forests efforts were on to transform a group of poachers from the neighbouring Theni District, in Tamil Nadu. I was lucky to be a part of this process from the very start. I took it forward by organising these people into an eco-development committee and making them a part of the Periyar Protection Force. This was India’s first trans-boundary initiative in eco-development. How did Mist and Musings come about? Writing was a way to escape from the depression I suffered following my father’s demise. It took me 18 months to bring out this book. I felt like I was reliving by life once again. The entire proceeds from the sale of this book will go to people protecting the jungles and to help conservation http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/the-forest-of-musings/article4031014.ece

Game's up on tiger-spotting racket

Anil Kumar M, TNN | Oct 25, 2012, 04.21AM IST BANGALORE: The recent Supreme Court order is not the only reason the government needs to ban commercial resorts near the forests. While tiger sighting in the wild is a matter of luck, state forest guards seem to be colluding with private resorts to make it easy. The forest department recently unearthed a racket that some resorts in an understanding with forest guards ensure their guests get to see a tiger in the wild, particularly in the Bandipur and Nagarahole ranges. Sources in the forest department told TOI that though tourists are allowed to go on a safari only in vehicles provided by the forest department and Jungle Lodges and Resorts, tourists from private resorts are taken around in a particular vehicle. "Guards manning core areas alert the vehicle driver through his mobile or wireless set that tigers with their cubs can be spotted in a particular region. Accordingly, the driver takes the guests and ensures they get to see a tiger. Guards get monetary and other favours from resorts." He added, "Feedback from tourists is displayed by resorts on their websites or display board, stating that tiger and cubs were spotted." The official added that tourists and wildlife enthusiasts are often not aware that the tiger spotting was stage-managed. Forest minister CP Yogeshwar said he came across such a racket recently. "Some resorts run by influential people, including an influential family of Mysore, are reportedly involved in such a racket. I've suspended a few guards and directed department officials to take measures to end this," he said. He said the SC's October 16 order will be strictly adhered to. It has directed all states to prepare a tiger conservation plan within six months keeping in mind the National Tiger Conservation Authority guidelines and submit it to the Centre for approval. "We've decided to stop all permanent tourist facilities located in the core area of reserve forests. A plan is also being worked out to allow only a limited number of tourists per day to tiger safaris," Yogeshwar said. As per the latest tiger census, Karnataka, with 300, accounts for the highest number of tigers. Of the 41 tiger reserves in the country, Karnataka tops the list with five ― Bandipur, Nagarahole, Biligiri Ranganathaswamy, Dandeli-Anshi and Bhadra. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Games-up-on-tiger-spotting-racket/articleshow/16946581.cms

Wildlife adventure in India is an experience of a lifetime

The majestic lion, the fearsome tiger, stealthy leopard, powerful elephant, the shy deer, robust antelope, the gorgeous pelican, robust woodpecker and the elegant flamingo are some of the impressive sights in our national reserves. Gifted by nature, wildlife in India is rich in variety and abundance. The majestic lion, the fearsome tiger, stealthy leopard, powerful elephant, the shy deer, robust antelope, the gorgeous pelican, robust woodpecker and the elegant flamingo are some of the impressive sights in our national reserves. Wildlife adventure is not only a great choice for a holiday with kids, it is also one of the best ways to connect with nature. Imagine waking up to the bird calls and not the alarm clock on your desk; not wanting to snooze any longer and heading out in the greens. Singing with the winds and walking by the riverside to spot animals drinking water. The feeling is extraordinary and absolutely high on the wish list for nature lovers. Thanks to our varied geographical terrains, India is home to scores of species of mammals, rare birds, reptiles, insects and amphibians. Add to it, the diverse flora that supports our ecosystem. However, many species of birds and animals are now on the verge of becoming extinct because of climate and geographic changes and also by excessive hunting by man (for food, medicine and recreational reasons). According to ecologists, more than 600 species of animals and birds are expected to be extinct if not protected by wildlife management. The final call is ours and the first step is to reconnect with nature and safeguard the wildlife habitat. Start now... MISSION: TIGER TRAIL HEAD TO: BANDHAVGARH, KANHA, JIM CORBETT, RANTHAMBORE Spotting the national animal of India — the Tiger, can be a fabulous experience. You can take your family on a tiger trail to Bandhavgarh, which is over 200 kms north-east of Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. The nearest village is Tala, which is the access point of the park. In MP itself, Kanha National Park has the pride of providing the setting for Rudyard Kipling's classic novel, The Jungle Book. This large park is well regarded for its research and conservation programme. If you prefer a drive from Delhi, then head to Ranthambore National Park. Take your kids to India's first national park — Corbett, which was established in 1936 by legendary tiger hunter Jim Corbett. Located in Uttarakhand, around three hours from Nainital and seven hours from Delhi. STAY OPTIONS: King's Lodge, Tiger's Den Resort, Mahua Kothi Resort and Treehouse Hideaway and Syna Tiger Resort at Bandhavgarh. At Kanha, stay over at Baghira Log Huts, Wild Chalet Resort, Pugmark Resort, Kanha Jungle Lodge and Mumba Resort. At Corbett, stay over at Tiger Camp, Corbett River View Retreat, Ramganga Resort, Ashoka's Tiger Trail and Camp Forktail Creek Jungle Lodge. Ladakh , known as 'The Broken Moon' is set in a spectacular environment enclosed by the mighty ranges of Karakoram and the Himalayas and is one of the most desirable destinations for travellers. Being a professional tourist host and artist, Ghulam Mustafa and his brother Ghulam Mohiuddin desired to provide to travellers coming here a balance between adventure and comfort through their Hotel The Grand Dragon Ladakh. http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/features/travel/wildlife-adventure-in-india-is-an-experience-of-a-lifetime/articleshow/16947779.cms

Tourists have to wait as forest department ropes in local community to run tiger reserves

K A Shaji, TNN | Oct 25, 2012, 12.43AM IST COIMBATORE: As the Supreme Court has directed that all tourism activities in tiger reserves be strictly in accordance with the notification on tiger conservation issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) last week, with the active involvement of traditional forest dwellers, authorities of three tiger reserves in Tamil Nadu have started probing steps to initiate community-based eco-tourism to ensure economic benefits to various aborigine communities which live in the peripheries of the reserves. As a first step, officials of Anamalai Tiger Reserve led by Field Director Rajeev Sreevastava, have visited the adjoining Parambikulam Tiger Reserve and collected details of the participatory forest management being practiced there with the involvement of tribals. Field directors of Mudumalai and Kalakkad Mudanthurai have also been directed to visit various reserves in the neighbouring states to study the way the community is involved in tourism activities. Sreevastava said he visited Parambikulam as part of a joint border inspection to study facilities there. I have congratulated them for the commendable work being undertaken there,'' he said. However, Sreevastava denied newspaper reports that all three tiger reserves in Tamil Nadu and Parambikulam in Kerala would be reopened for tourists next week. This is not possible. We have to adhere to the Supreme Court order in letter and spirit. It involves a time-consuming process to earmark 20 percent of the reserves for tourism and operate activities in a way benefiting forest dwellers and not impacting wild animals,'' he said. Nature lovers will have to wait for a few more weeks to gain entry into the permissible parts of Mudumalai, Anamalai and Kalakkad Mudanthurai tiger reserves in Tamil Nadu. Apart from identifying 20 percent area for tourism, chief wildlife wardens and field directors of the reserves have to work out the "site-specific carrying capacity" of each reserve before opening it up to visitors. The task is more complex for forest authorities due to the stringent regulations for tourism within the reserves while allowing "ecologically sustainable and nature-friendly tourism" in 20% of the core areas. The guidelines warn against allowing "mass tourism" in tiger reserves and calls for tourist activities that will ensure "sustainable, equitable and community-based efforts that will improve the living standards of local, host communities living on the fringes of reserves. Without implementing these provisions, how we can allow tourism,'' asks Sreevastava. The guidelines have also refused expansion of infrastructure for tourism in the core and critical tiger habitats. "The buffer forest areas should be developed as wildlife habitats with the active involvement of local people living in such areas," it says. The areas in which the local population, especially traditional forest dwellers could be involved is in the management of low cost accommodation for tourists, providing guide services, providing sale outlets and managing excursions. The guidelines also stress involvement of Panchayati Raj institutions in running tiger safaris and interpretation centres in buffer zones. In Tamil Nadu, these elected bodies never had a role in eco-tourism. According to Sreevastava, the focus now is on replicating the eco-development societies of tribals in Parambikulam in all the reserves in Tamil Nadu. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/coimbatore/Tourists-have-to-wait-as-forest-department-ropes-in-local-community-to-run-tiger-reserves/articleshow/16944958.cms

Experts to study mining, industry impact on Tadoba

Vijay Pinjarkar, TNN | Oct 24, 2012, 02.25AM IST NAGPUR: The principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), Maharashtra, is planning to constitute a committee of experts to study adverse impact of mining and industries on biodiversity and tigers in and around Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve ( TATR). According to sources, the move follows as compliance of the assurance to the calling attention motion moved by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) MLA from Magathane in Mumbai Pravin Darekar in the Assembly. "I had raised the issue in the House. I'm busy with a function and hence will give you the details tomorrow," Darekar told TOI. To discuss modalities and methodology for the study on adverse impact, PCCF (wildlife) SWH Naqvi has called a meeting on October 30 at Van Bhawan. The state government has already roped in Yashwantrao Academy of Development Administration (Yashda), Pune, to study tiger corridors in Vidarbha. Naqvi was unavailable for comments as he was busy with a meeting in Mumbai. The committee is likely to comprise experts from National Environment Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), World Wide Fund for Nature ( WWF), Wildlife Institute of India ( WII), Dehradun, and Centre for Wildlife Studies headed by noted expert K Ullas Karanth from Karnataka. In May, MNS chief Raj Thackeray had visited Gondmohadi near Tadoba, where two tigers were entangled in metal traps. Apart from the MNS raising the issue, there are charges from all quarters that excessive mining and industrial activities over the years had destroyed tiger habitat around Tadoba. The charges include breaking of wildlife corridors, increase in man-animal conflict and extension of existing mines that would adversely affect already fragmented corridors. There are many coal and iron ore mines in the Tadoba landscape awaiting environment clearance. If granted, Tadoba would be isolated further increasing man-animal conflict as tigers would be unable to migrate. A study on 'How coal mining is trashing tigerland' published by leading NGO Greenpeace on August 3 has revealed that coalfields around Tadoba overlap with endangered species habitat. The report highlights massive costs India is facing from the huge expansion in coal mining. The mines will impact eight tiger reserves and their corridors including Tadoba-Andhari, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Sanjay-Dubri, Kawal, Satkosia, Simlipal and Palamau. Talking to TOI, president of tiger conservation NGO Eco-Pro Bandu Dhotre welcomed the move saying Chandrapur was the most polluted city in India. Wastewater from existing mines is not only contaminating rivers, lakes and streams in the district but is also disturbing groundwater balance. Any further activity will be detrimental not only to forest and wildlife but also residents. Dhotre said around 25 tonnes of overburden is generated for every tonne of coal produced altering the landscape. "Coalmines emit particulate matter and gases, including methane, sulphurdioxide and oxides of nitrogen. These mines also cause noise pollution by blasting, movement of heavy earthmoving machinery, drilling and coal-handling equipment," he added. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/Experts-to-study-mining-industry-impact-on-Tadoba/articleshow/16934197.cms

Tiger population rises in State

WEDNESDAY, 24 OCTOBER 2012 00:10 SHRAWAN MAWAI | SEHORE HITS: 76 Good news for tiger lovers pour in from the Budhni forests of the Sehore district where pug marks of a tiger were registered by the Forest department. With this the number of tigers in the district have rose to three, as a tiger has already made Kathotia forests of the district its home since long and information about movement of another tiger is noted in the Dugaria forests of the range. According to the information, two days back pug marks of animal were seen near the Talpura pond in the Budhni forest range, the forest officials on seeing the pug marks speculated that they could be of tiger, mould of these pug marks was taken and after deep study of the same the department came to an conclusion that the pug marks are of a tiger. Ranger, Budhni forest range BP Singh while talking to The Pioneer said, “We got the information about the tiger movement in the area, during the rainy season this tiger was seen in the forests behind the tractor training centre, now it has moved in the area of Talpura area of the forest.” Singh further said that now the movement of this tiger is in and around Talpura, teams have been constituted to monitor its movement and they are keeping a watch on the movement of the tiger. Now the number of tigers have rose to two in the Budhni forest range, as the reports of movement of a tiger in the Dugaria forests are also pouring in since last few months, he added. He said the movement of the tiger seen in the Dugaria forests is limited to that area only. Reports of tiger sighting have poured in on earlier occasions also from the Budhni forest range, but the Forest department never before confirmed the news. Now, when the Forest department has confirmed the presence of tiger in the range, wildlife activists have expressed concern over the security of striped feline as the Sehore Forest administration has over the past few months earned notoriety for being hand in gloves with the poachers, especially after the death of two tigers in a period of less than couple of months. Wildlife activist Ajay Dube said, “It is welcome news that the tiger family is increasing in the State, but we are concerned over the security of these new find felines as they have been located in the Sehore forest range where two tigers were killed by the poachers this year.” Dube further said, “We are concerned that the reports of tiger movement were pouring in since long but the Forest department has neither bothered to confirm them earlier nor has taken steps till now for their security.” Notably, Kathotia forest of the Sehore district is infamous for tiger poaching and due to that on earlier occasions tigers were shifted from this forest. The Forest department would conduct the tiger census in December; it would be after many years that the official census of the striped feline would be held in the district. It was in the year 2004 when the last official census was held in the district. http://www.dailypioneer.com/state-editions/bhopal/103948-tiger-population-rises-in-state.html

Navegaon-Nagzira tiger reserve proposal being recast

Vijay Pinjarkar, TNN | Oct 22, 2012, 02.33AM IST NAGPUR: State principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife) SWH Naqvi has ordered revision of the proposal for Navegaon-Nagzira tiger reserve (NNTR). It will be sent to the state government soon. National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) had in a notification on October 15, and in a submission to the Supreme Court, has advised Maharashtra government to submit a new tiger reserve proposal. Principal secretary for forests Praveen Pardeshi said Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve proposal is under consideration but has not yet been submitted to Government of India. "We would like to make detailed core and buffer zone delineation before we submit it, to avoid any complications," Pardeshi told on Sunday. However, rumours are agog that officials are delaying the proposal to favour Adani Power Maharashtra Limited (APML), whose 3,300MW power plant is coming up just 8km away from the Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary boundary and lies in the eco-sensitive zone. Considering this, when Aditya Agrawal of Tumsar tried to find out about the tiger reserve proposal under the RTI Act, he was not given any information, saying the procedure is incomplete. Talking to TOI, Naqvi scoffed at the rumours, saying the tiger reserve proposal has nothing to do with Adani power project. "The proposal is being recast by including newly notified sanctuaries New Nagzira and Navegaon adjoining existing Nagzira sanctuary and Navegaon National Park. The earlier proposal sent to the state in September 2010 did not include newly notified sanctuaries," Naqvi said. "We want to ensure that all old and new notified areas have been included in the new reserve. It should be a perfect proposal so there are no hassles later," Naqvi made it clear. The New Nagzira and New Navegaon wildlife sanctuaries were notified nine months ago in February 2012. The Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve is expected to be over 560 sq km. It will combine existing Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary (152 sq km), Navegaon National Park (133 sq km), New Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary (151.33 sq km) and Navegaon Wildlife Sanctuary (122.75 sq km). The Navegaon-Nagzira tiger reserve was announced on September 8, 2009, by then environment minister Jairam Ramesh. From time to time he has asked the chief minister to declare Navegaon-Nagzira a reserve. The MoEF has agreed in principle to declare the area a reserve. On August 14, in a written reply, environment minister Jayanthi Natarajan had announced in the Rajya Sabha creation of five new tiger reserves; Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh), Ratapani ( Madhya Pradesh), Sunabeda (Odisha), Mukundara Hills (Rajasthan) and Satyamangalam ( Tamil Nadu). She had also said Maharashtra has been asked to submit Navegaon-Nagzira reserve proposal. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/Navegaon-Nagzira-tiger-reserve-proposal-being-recast/articleshow/16907887.cms

Corbett eye in the sky nets illegal miners red-handed

Chetan Chauhan, Hindustan Times New Delhi, October 22, 2012 An eye in sky keeping a watch on tigers around the clock in Corbett National Park and sending SMS alert to forest officials in case of danger is set for replication across the cuntry. The system, country's first and based on online monitoring system for marine monitoring in United States, helped the forest officials to catch illegal sand and stone miners at the boundary of the national park recently. "The system alerted the forest officials who caught all offenders from the spot," said National Tiger Conservation Authority joint director SP Yadav. The totally unmanned solar energy based systems runs on cameras installed on tall towers and detects any moving object having body weight of 20 kg or more. Some of the many cameras also man the towers and the photo-voltaic solar panels. The system automatically emails pictures to a 24 into 7 monitoring centre with an SMS alert to all forest officials. "It just needs to see something to send an alert," Yadav said. The added advantage of the system is that authorized officials can monitor the wildlife area from anywhere in the world through internet. The first system installed on the Corbett’s border with Uttar Pradesh covering 500 sq kms has cost the NTCA Rs 3 crore. The Uttarakhand forest department pays for maintenance of the system and to run the monitoring centre. Corbett has around 200 tigers with highest density of the big cat in 100 square kilometers in the world. Rajesh Gopal, member secretary of NTCA said Assam has already shown willingness to have the system probably for Kaziranga National Park, which has been under spotlight of the poachers, and he hoped that other tiger reserves will follow suit soon. The government plans to install this online e-system in all high wildlife poaching areas in tiger reserves in India in the 12th five year plan (2012-17) with the Planning Commission increasing the budget for tigers around nine times. This is the second major information technology based tool used by NTCA to protect the tigers. The authority had introduced online monitoring in Sariska in Rajasthan through global positioning system based radio collaring of tigers. http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Corbett-eye-in-the-sky-nets-illegal-miners-red-handed/Article1-948288.aspx

3 more tigers for Sariska but safety still a big concern

MONDAY, 22 OCTOBER 2012 00:58 PNS | NEW DELHI After the success of relocated tigress delivering two cubs, the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan is also planning translocation of three more tigers by the end of the year, but conservationists and wildlife experts are apprehensive about the safety of the big cats there. The relocation of three tigers will take their numbers of big cats to 10 in the reserve. However, experts feel that the safety situation is more or less same as it was in 2005 when the reserve lost all its tigers due to poaching. The experts pointed out, there are still 28 villages existing in the critical habitat area of the reserve. Further, large number of pilgrims and vehicles regularly enter through the core area of the reserve to reach the ancient Hanuman temple at Pandupole, every Tuesday and Saturday when there is free entry. Shortly after Sariska declared to have lost all its tigers, in February 2005 the Government had constituted the State Empowered Committee on forests and wildlife management (SEC). The committee had come out with a number of suggestions to prevent the recurrence of similar incident in future. The report clearly stated, “In Sariska, all the reasons responsible for the disappearance of tigers in toto zero in on one single factor which is that large number of villages exist inside the reserve. No successful rehabilitation of these villages has ever taken place. Therefore, poachers could take shelter here and kill tigers.” Apart from concerns on the biotic pressure from human, they also pointed to the accompanying problem of grazing of cattle living in the villages situated within the reserve and on the periphery. They had recommended reduction of these existing disturbances and a time-bound relocation of villages. “Most of these recommendations are yet to be followed,” pointed out Dharmendra Khandal, conservation biologist from Tiger Watch. Let alone the issue of relocation, the Forest department has done little to reduce the influx of pilgrims to the ancient Hanuman temple at Pandupole every week. Further, nearly 8 kms of a State Highway also passes through the core area of the reserve, he pointed out. Though the Forest department has tried to reduce the number of vehicles passing through the reserve but lot more needs to be done, he felt. Field Director Sariska, RS Shekhawat admitted that relocation was the single biggest challenge. “This is a voluntary process and we have formed a relocation cell deputing full time officer to look into the issue,” he pointed out. Recently, we have been able to vacate the Umri village and have relocated nearly 90 per cent of Dabli and Rautkela villages. Two more villages are to be expected to be evacuated within the next two months, he pointed out, for which funds worth `50 crore from National Tiger Conservation Authority. Efforts are also on to introduce shuttle buses to regulate the inflow of pilgrims and check the entry of vehicles to the Pandupole temple , for which again funds from the Centre are awaited, informed the Field Director. http://dailypioneer.com/nation/103417-3-more-tigers-for-sariska-but-safety-still-a-big-concern.html

Safaris in Bandipur, Nagarahole national parks stopped

TNN | Oct 20, 2012, 03.55AM IST MYSORE: A day after the safari at Bandipur and Nagarahole national parks began, it has been suspended temporarily not because of Supreme Court direction but due to alleged interference. This is a setback to the tourism industry which has already took a hit with the recent Cauvery protests. The tiger sanctuaries were closed for over two-and-half months until Thursday when the Supreme Court ordered its reopening. A source from the forest department confirmed that they had received an oral communication from their higher authorities against taking any bookings for Friday. "However, we didn't get any explanation for stopping the safari a day after it began," the source said. Principal chief conservator of forests (Wildlife) Dipak Sarmah confirmed to TOI that the safari had been stopped pending government approval. Even he refused to clarify the reason for the suspension. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Safaris-in-Bandipur-Nagarahole-national-parks-stopped/articleshow/16885600.cms

Corbett's Bijrani and Jhirna zones to reopen today

D S Kunwar, TNN | Oct 20, 2012, 03.22AM IST DEHRADUN: Two days after the Supreme Court allowed for the resumption of tourism activities in tiger reserves, Corbett National Park (CNP) administration on Friday decided to re-open its famous Bijrani and Jhirna Wildlife Zone for tourists beginning Saturday. CNP Director Ranjan Mishra told TOI that the decision was taken on a SC directive for resumption of tourism activities in tiger reserves across the country. These two wildlife Zones along with other Zones like Dhikala which were closed for tourists between June 30 and July 1 and were scheduled to reopen for tourists on October 15. Senior Corbett authorities said they could reopen Bijrani and Jhirna on October 15 as they were in process to complete certain formalities with this regards. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Corbetts-Bijrani-and-Jhirna-zones-to-reopen-today/articleshow/16885334.cms

4-member gang held; tiger pelt, claws seized

Kollegal, Oct 20, 2012 dhns: The CID forest squad nabbed a gang accused of smuggling tiger pelt, in Kollegal on Thursday. The arrested are Gowdalli Ramesh, Kollegal Rajashekar, Abbas and Chandru. Somanna of Amekaradoddi in Yalandur taluk, said to be the prime accused, is absconding. Tipped-off that a gang had poisoned a tiger to death six months ago and were trying to to sell its pelt for Rs 40 lakh, the squad led by sub-inspector Mahesh nabbed the gang on Mysore Road. The pelt and claws were seized. It is learnt that Somanna had stored the pelt at his house after processing it. S P Ashok A Anwekar of Madikeri CID forest squad also assisted the squad. Sub-inspector Mahesh and staff, Prakash, Ningaraju, Srikanta, Ravi, Ningarajappa, Jayashankar, Harish and Raghavendra were part of the operation. http://www.deccanherald.com/content/286634/4-member-gang-held-tiger.html

Hazaribagh’s tiger trap lies forgotten

FRIDAY, 19 OCTOBER 2012 17:26 RR SRIVASTAVA | HAZARIBAGH HITS: 61 In Hazaribagh, one always has two arguments about the nomenclature. Some say there were a thousand gardens here in the old days, while others say that the forests were the habitat of tigers. There is no evidence left of there ever having been gardens but one unique tiger trap in the forests of Hazaribagh sanctuary is evidence of the thousand tigers present here in the days of yore. The tiger trap was constructed by the king of Ramgarh before Independence. It is said to be India’s biggest tiger trap but is in a sorry state due to negligence of the forest department. The Hazaribagh sanctuary is situated on the Ranchi-Patna National Highway (NH) 33, about 18 km from district headquarters. Every year, many tourists visit this sanctuary but enough information on it has not been spread and they often miss it. Villagers of nearby areas have many stories about this trap and the king. They say that Raja Ramgarh was fond of giving unique gifts. With the help of this trap he caught many Royal Bengal tigers and gifted to other kings and Government officers. They also claim that before and after Independence, many high-profile personalities used to come here to fulfill their hunting passion. The tigers trap is about 40 feet in diametre and depth. In the middle a four feet diametre pole like structure is built. On this pole a goat was kept to attract the tiger. Its base is about 30 feet that is why it looks like a glass. It has 60 feet long inner way to reach inside the trap. Villagers say that the upper portion of the trap was first covered by leaves and then the goat was placed. Before 1980 Hazaribagh sanctuary was known as Hazaribagh National Park. Tourists from all over India use to come here to see the wild life and tree top watch houses. It was a famous shooting spot of Tollywood. With time the forests of Hazaribagh lost many precious flora and fauna, though Hazaribagh sanctuary is a place of attraction yet. If the forest and tourism department will include this tiger trap in the list of spots of attraction, it is sure that more people will visit to see India’s largest and biggest tiger trap. http://www.dailypioneer.com/state-editions/ranchi/102823-hazaribaghs-tiger-trap-lies-forgotten.html

Leg injury triggers arthritis in Sunderbans tiger

KOLKATA: The Sunderbans tiger, undergoing treatment at the Alipore Zoo, was diagnosed with osteoarthritis on Thursday. Three zoo doctors — D N Banerjee, Arnab Majhi and Jayanta Roy Burman - in the presence of experts from the animal husbandry department, performed an X-ray on its hind legs on Thursday afternoon. "Initially, it has been detected with infected osteoarthritis. We will consult other experts before deciding on a complete course of treatment. The tiger had to be tranquillized before performing the X-ray and it has regained consciousness now," said zoo director K L Ghosh. Eminent vet and a member of National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) Schedule I animal handling committee, Dr Swapan Ghosh, was also present when the X-ray was done. According to zoo director Ghosh, the prolonged internal injury on the tiger's left hind leg might have led to this arthritis. "This injury also restricted the tiger's movement, leading to a starvation in it," he added. Meanwhile, state wildlife advisory board member Joydip Kundu said that this injury may be an outcome of a man-animal conflict. "The forest department should take a serious note of it and step up the future conservation efforts in the Sunderbans," he added. Ghosh said that since it was a Thursday, the big cat was not offered any food. "It's much better now and we will shift to its normal diet from Friday again. We are also planning to release the tiger in an open enclosure. We will observe it and decide whether it's fit to be released back to the wild," Ghosh added. It may be noted that the zoo doesn't offer food to any of the carnivores on Thursdays. The zoo officials had earlier said that a weak posterior of the big cat is a cause for concern. The tiger, aged about seven years, was earlier diagnosed with prolonged starvation. "The blood and liver function tests had shown indication of starvation. There was discrepancy in the blood, urea and nitrogen ration (BUN) too. This showed that the kidney was not doing the filtering properly," zoo vet Dr D N Banerjee had earlier said. When contacted, Wildlife Institute of India's (WII) senior scientist YV Jhala said that complications like arthritis can be found in aged tigers. "A tiger, aged seven years, is not too young. However, it can't be called an old tiger either. So, the age is a key factor here," he added. Chief wildlife warden S B Mondal said it's up to the zoo officials to decide when or whether it can be released back to the wild. Vet's Take Renowned veterinary in the city, Dr Goutam Mukherjee, said that osteo arthritis is common in aged animals. A fluid called synovial fluid flows between the long bones, which prevents the friction between two bones. When an animal gets older, the fluid flow comes down resulting in frequent friction between the joint bones. This leads to osteo arthritis in an old animal. In this case, the arthritis was triggered by a prolonged injury. An improper healing of the injury might have resulted in constant damage of bones and muscle. This triggered infection and pain in the animal leading to arthritis http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/environment/flora-fauna/leg-injury-triggers-arthritis-in-sunderbans-tiger/articleshow/16871241.cms