Hyderabad: Telangana Forest and Environment Minister Konda Surekha called for collective responsibility in Tiger conservation. She said protecting tigers also safeguards forests, biodiversity and the environment for future generations.
The minister attended the International Tiger Day celebrations as the chief guest at the Telangana State Forest Academy in Dulapally, Medchal-Malkajgiri district. She inspected a photo exhibition on tiger conservation. She also watched a short film on efforts to protect the species.
Addressing the gathering, Surekha said the world observes International Tiger Day every year on July 29. She noted that the global initiative began in 2010 in St. Petersburg, Russia. She added that the event has become an important platform for promoting wildlife conservation.
Tiger conservation remains a national priority
Surekha said poaching, deforestation and illegal wildlife trade had reduced tiger numbers. However, she noted that the Congress government led by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi enacted the Wildlife Protection Act in 1972. It also launched Project Tiger in 1973 to strengthen Tiger conservation across the country.
According to the minister, those measures helped India emerge as a global leader in tiger conservation. She said nearly 75% of the world’s tiger population now lives in India. The country currently has 58 tiger reserves, she added.
Referring to Telangana, Surekha said the state occupies an important place in wildlife conservation. She said the Amrabad and Kawal Tiger Reserves have earned national recognition. Improved water resources, better habitat management and modern protection measures have increased tiger numbers in the Amrabad Tiger Reserve, she added.
On the Kawal Tiger Reserve, the minister said the Forest Department has launched a tiger reintroduction programme. It has also linked the reserve with Maharashtra’s Tadoba Tiger Reserve to support the natural movement of tigers. Meanwhile, the department continues to conduct awareness programmes on environmental protection.
Surekha urged people to protect forests and conserve wildlife. She called on every citizen to share responsibility for Tiger conservation. She also appealed to people to help preserve a greener Telangana for future generations.
The minister also addressed trainees from Maharashtra, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala who are undergoing training at the Forest Academy. She urged them to protect forest resources with dedication, integrity and commitment. Surekha later presented cash awards and commendation certificates to Forest Department personnel for their contribution to forest and wildlife conservation. She also honoured students who won drawing competitions organised to mark International Tiger Day.