Sunday, February 21, 2021

Preventing Extractive Tourism in Tiger Lands?

Tiger Tourism Pros & Cons

In the tiger lands or the reserves, tourism is the butt of contention for its detractors. Yes there appears to be a small tribe which includes some officials and few organizations who do not believe that any form of recreation is deserving in our tiger reserves. 

Alternate tourism in the buffer or now eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) does not seem to be promising, and could reduce tourism to nought sinking local economies back to primitive status as before advent of tourism.  This area is subject to biotic and abiotic pressures on its limited resources and space.        

Although cumbersome legal interventions in the past where unwarranted but the impact has been  remedial as far as dangers of extractive or mass tourism is concerned. This does not imply that legal battles are an imperative. 

The credit for reducing carbon footprints in the reserves by restricting mass tourism goes to the sagacity of our legal system and wildlife managers - the wise men that are at the helm. Equity is utmost important as far as preservation of natural lands and its denizens are concerned and tourism accords it without fail.  This also clears the fact that what pays stays, a harsh reality indeed. 

The reserve generate lot of revenue from tiger safari and the funds are plowed back into conservation activities managed by local labour, regular and permanent staff. Fund flow as salaries providing livelihood.     

The tiger reserves are remotely situated but not far removed, most of them are engulfed  by dense humanity in the surrounds live stock included. Well fed people respond better to natural surroundings the fragile ecosystems. Thus economic activities can never be thwarted or subdued beyond a limit. 

Tiger tourism in India has proved benign, for since years of inception no noticeable damage has occurred in the ecosystems. On the contrary big cat population and prey density has increased and habitat recovery is noticeable. The recent entry caps have further assured the validity of preservation laws.       

Thus the vision of detractors is at best myopic and seems to ignore harsh realty of free economy. All income generation activities are for survival and thus unavoidable. We can at best regulate and restrict in order to save the environment and the local infrastructure from immense pressures of mass tourism. 

Tourism in Tiger Reserves    

Tiger Tourism is already regulated, the permit system and cap on vehicle entry are all environmental friendly measures which substantially reduce carbon footprints. Fewer vehicles on drive mitigates pressure on wildlife and enhances safari experience as well.  

Mass extractive tourism is always a threat to the local environment where the environmental consequences are oft ignored. This is due to  the belief that mass tourism augurs immense benefit to the local economy in spite of exploitative tourism practices. But in a rich man's world where travel is a privilege of the upper crust  more in post vaccine roll out era the tourism hot spots are turning back into unmanageable hub of activities. Paradoxically unregulated tourism is  the biggest damage monger to the environment and to the local infrastructure.     

In natural places by local infrastructure we should not restrict ourselves to roads and bridges and the concrete structures that eventually crop up. The ecology rich areas and natural resources come under the purview of local infrastructure, and the maximum damage occurs here...irrevocable in most of the cases. 

Tiger Tourism Concerns & Remedies

No pressure should be exerted upon crucial aquatic systems, deforestation should not take place, agrarian practices should improve but not expanded, livestock rearing should be organised such that biotic pressures are mitigated, urbanization is the bane of eco-senstive areas and alternate habitation should be encouraged. 

Prevention of debilitating industrial activities is of utmost important in order to prevent deforestation and pollution. Commercial activity should be nature oriented like encouragement to arts and crafts. Local hospitality ancillaries are vital for tourism everywhere hence monopoly should be discouraged. Real estate exploitation is a reality in such hot spots nevertheless the tribal lands are well protected by law.      

All this appears to have been copied straight from some ecologists's write up but this is besides the point. Desire to move in the perceived right direction is stressed out here. This article simply points to a rethink as far as wilderness management is concerned in India.               

Threats & Perceptions

The Threat Remains in Buffer Zones. The term buffer zone itself is defeatist in nature with no remedial action deemed possible. Considered as leftover fragment of intact ecosystem in the core this is where livestock rearing and agrarian practices are permissible. The space is also for survival of sink populations of wild animals chiefly the tiger. But cohabitation in modern times at best seems a romantic illusion. Some species are very sensitive to human interventions and animals like the swamp deer for example cannot simply survive in the buffer. Sturdy wildlife does survive in green pockets in stressful circumstances giving rise to man animal conflict. Tourism in buffer is another plus point.     

Although translocation of human settlements in outer ring or buffer appears to be an instant panacea this is not a pragmatic approach. Alternatives have to be found for better preservation of the reserve keeping in place the inviolate area or core  as sacrosanct.      

Small or large scale industrial activities have not yet entered in most the reserves I have visited, but the threat remains. Our belief that urbanisation is development in terms of concrete infrastructure and economy is mired in  fallacy. The policy makers see all regions including the places of natural importance as uniform entities and thus insidious urbanization is creeping in. With no alternate framework specific to places of natural importance the die is cast.   

Exploitation: Corollary to Mass Tourism 

Mass or extractive tourism is often linked to exploitation of local resources and man power. This stands true in most of the circumstances but this corollary does not apply to the tiger reserves or protective areas in India with restrictive and regulated tourism.

Low salaries and extensive working hours as some point out are due to  capitalism is not the case in the reserves. If there are such instances than competition is a great leveler and hard working locals who grasp diverse skills are not facing any problems and their status is at best robust. As a matter of fact due to empowerment the local youth is moving out to cities for better opportunities.      

Small is Good

In this write up there is a message for wildlife resorts that large establishment will never see the day light. In keeping with the environment concerns the vehicle entry limits are not going to be enhanced. Hence room requirement would be low scale except in the rush. 

Courtyad House Kanha - Responsible Lodge

Creating small establishment or responsible lodge is
 the order of the day. It has become imperative to keep accommodations small. Perhaps larger establishment would need to bring down the number of rooms. This will help reduce carbon footprints and improve nature in the surroundings.        

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


              



   

Thursday, February 18, 2021

Will Tiger be Extinct in India?

Tiger Population Decline

The beast surely faced a big risk of being extinct in India but with sufficient conservative initiative the outlook seems promising.  From perhaps less than 1400 tigers in the country the population now touches around 3000. This has certainly been no small achievement.   

Tiger Population 20th 

At the turn of 20th century the estimated population of big cats was more than hundred thousand spread all over the country. This was the period in which hunting had started on large scale and habitats were being replaced with agriculture or commercial forestry. Although the impact was not immediate the rot had set in and led to further damage whence monetary incentive was doled out to kill wild animals in India by the ruling British to get rid of the vermin in which the tiger was also included.  This was disastrous as animals like wolf, jackal, hyena, fox, leopard and the tiger where culled in large numbers. 

Hunting by the elites was a major scourge which added to this massacre and it was responsible for local extinction at many places.  

Indian Tiger


Post Independence 

Post independence the population had come down strikingly low from estimated forty thousand to + - 1400. The die was cast and something had to be done if this magnificent predator had to make a return. Thankfully India had become a republic  (1950 ) the British had left and the local realms had been included in the newly born republic with no administrative controls.         

Under the new domain the animals continued to be hunted, and their habitats taken over by humans for agrarian purpose. The fast growing population was making its presence felt and hungry stomachs had to be fed. This lead to extensive takeover of wild habitats in all types of ecosystems to facilitate agriculture and to settle the every growing communities. This was one of the main reason for the reduction in population of tigers in India. The habitats were trampled over thoughtlessly to feed the masses. 

Commercial Forestry in India      

Systemic exploitation of forest is a recent phenomena in India if historic time scale is taken into account. Perhaps it all started post 1850 whence commercial forestry began during the Raj. This also implies that large scale forest were cleared in India for commercial purpose accentuated by the industrial revolution in Great Britain.   

Commercial Forestry Slide Show

Extensive deforestation in the country took place from 1880 onward to 1920. There are many reasons for extensive deforestation during the British rule but we should also take into the account overflowing population and the subsequent need for food and settlement. 

Deforestation, commercial exploitation and human takeover of ecosystems continued in the country till the rot was stemmed somewhat. But by the time corrective action had been taken the tiger population in the country had come down drastically and extinction seemed inevitable. 

Tigers where still hunted under licence, and one could shoot the predator in the allotted area for a price as low as Rs.45 less than 1 $.  This bewildering anomaly in the system was caused by little understanding of nature especially wildlife and forests that maintained an equilibrium capable of sustaining life including that of humans. 

Nevertheless India is a country with strong conservation ethos that were inculcated during the Vedic Era some five thousand plus years back. 

Wildlife Protection Act 1972

In 1972 corrective action was taken in form of Wildlife Protection Act. which prohibited killing of all animals except those that fell under the purview of livestock. This was a wonder law the effect of which is quite prevalent now. Wild animal populations are on the rise everywhere in the country and incidence of poaching have come down. The Act also accords protection to floral elements.    

Under this Act there are provisions to notify area as sacrosanct. This has lead to creation of Protected Areas. The PAs are divided into inviolate core zone which is the critical tiger habitat and buffer or eco-sensitive zone. The latter is an outer ring with some restrictions where the source population can settle down in case of lack of territory. 

Project Tiger Program 1973

NTCA or National Tiger Conservation Authority is at the helm of Project Tiger. The policies are framed under this organization. This body also regulates and overseas tiger tourism in conjunction with State Governments and with participation of local bodies. 

Although the implementation of this conservative initiative was done euphemistically there were period of complacency till cases of mass killing of tigers in Panna and Sariska shook the Nation. The program has been successful of late with the population rising to 3000 in about fifty tiger reserves spread across the country.     

Survival of Tiger in India

The most important factor that will help the animal survive is the political will. Political initiatives taken at top are important for survival of this critically endangered specie. This becomes an imperative in  case of strong impetus for urbanization and industrialization taking place at present juncture. The ruling dispensations, the policy makers within should accord immense consideration for natural area preservation without any concession to unplanned development and resource extraction agenda.    

Preservation of tiger habits is imperative to save the species besides as much increase as possible of the core area. Thus the protected areas with inviolate core are of utmost importance and should remain till eternity in the habitats now terribly constricted by humans and their over populated live stock. 

But PAs are not eternal...in case of political infringement if the status is diluted or abrogated that would lead to certain extinction of the tiger. Although a strong framework guarantees prevention of such anomalies it is all under the control of humans. There are no natural factors or barriers that prevent violation of critical tiger habitats  the predator is entirely at the mercy of humans. 

Creation of corridors, although this has been construed as vital for prevention of inbreeding and to accord free movement to wildlife the implementation is at best on papers. A strong political will is required in order to relocate settlement from these sensitive and fragile habitats that could form a viable connect. But mass relocation seems to be too overwhelming for the system.   

In India there is a tribe of organizations which are strong detractors of inviolate core area concept and often act as pressure group against implementation of strong conservative measures.  

Understanding the behavioral characteristics of tiger is very important. As ambush hunter it is dependant upon thick canopy or dense forest and tall grasslands and thus this virtue makes it vulnerable to habitat degradation since it cannot survive in open country unlike the leopard and the lion.      

Political initiatives are an imperative at all levels of administration especially in vicinity of the PAs. The initiatives should be favorable towards conservation and prevent biotic interference and commercialisation. 

Albeit the forest management in charge of PAs is efficient and dedicated...lacunae in the system should be amended and corrupt elements should be weeded out.  

Poaching though reduced due to stringent patrolling is still an issue and cases of electrocution, snaring and hunting are still prevalent. Tigers are being lost annually in such incidences. The demand for bones and parts of the big cats is very much prevalent in the countries wherever TCM is popular. Thus threat of poaching and resultant illegal trade in wildlife looms large over our tiger landscapes.   

Eco-development is playing a key role in preventing alienation of local communities which play a major conservation role in and around the PAs.  Economic development through employment and empowerment is essential in this aspect and tourism and jobs in the forest department is playing a vital role.  

India has a long way to go in order to save the tiger eternally. Although the present trend of increasing population is exhilarating there is no room for complacency.   

Will tiger be extinct in India?

No! This, if the current trend is taken into consideration and corrective measures are vigorously implemented. The animal will survive until in unforeseen circumstances the threat becomes a reality.   

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


              

Sunday, February 14, 2021

Rehabilitating Gharial in India

 Gharial - Gavial - Conservation in India

Conserving iconic species which have been endangered due improper land use, hunting, poaching and destruction of habitats in ecosystems that support them is akin to tiger conservation. 

Most of the rivers in the country are subject to exploitation especially by the sand mafia which is somehow able to dither the corrective actions of State level dispensations. Siltation is proving to be a major threat to all aquatic species.  

The first time I saw this enigmatic species was at Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttrakhand Northern India. It was a short visit and most of our drives where at Dhangadi gate in Dhikala Zone. We had stayed at enchanting Sarp Duli rest house and a fantastic beginning was made on our arrival. Down below besides fresh tiger paw prints was a lone marsh crocodile basking on the shore in that cold winter morning.  

Photo Gharial - Margret Norah

In that August sunlight, I could photograph the crocodile from close quarters thanks to security provided by a forest guard. That was it, my visit had begun with close encounters with Gharial's cousin the marsh  or  fresh water crocodile. Though nowhere as endangered, all unique life forms in India are under the severe threat of extinction or near extinction thanks to our ways and the marginalised ecosystems. 

Pair Gavial - Margret Norah at Chambal

Marsh Crocodile - Margret Norah

All ecosystems are under threat waiting for a policy rejuvenation that accords greater protection to the beleaguered species  and their habitats.  Though the Project Tiger Program under the aegis of Central Government is doing reasonably well another conservation initiative is moving forward. The Gharial conservation program with assistance of breeding centers is repopulating the rivers with historical evidence of the species as far as Punjab.  

In post independent India the threat arose from hunting and poaching for leather which is valued as raw materiel for shoes and bags to name a few. All reptilian species are subject to severe threat of commercial exploitation thanks to  the demand of soft leather products globally. 

Though the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 has been effective in thwarting the demise of this species endemic to Indian Sub Continent, the number were still going down. This called for urgent conservation measures and the Indian Government responded.  

Basking Gharials - Margret Norah

My second encounter with the Gharial was at Chambal River Sanctuary which is spread across three states namely Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajastahan. At that time I was leading overseas birding groups for DMC called Indiafootprints. Frequent bird watching forays lead to witnessing the activities of this critically endangered species from close quarters. This along with experience of a shared of habitat in the pristine river between gharial, crocodiles, Ganges Dolphin and numerous species of turtles not forgetting the enchanting avian that make the river their home. As a matter of fact the birding possibility here is fascinating with plethora or species inhabiting the aquatic realm.  

The Gavial is a fish eating species and survives in aquatic systems with deep burrows that retain water even during the scorching summers. It survives entirely on fish and is not known to harm humans. The length can be as much as eighteen meters. The body requires thermo-regulation fetching them to the river shores where they are most susceptible.           

At Corbett and Chambal, the aquatic species are doing well. On my tour to Panna National Park, I could visit the Ken River but unfortunately could not see the gharial here because of location being far away and they survive precariously in a small pocket. Ken River Habitats like Panna National Park are severely stressed out due to mining especially the diamond mining at very close distance. Tigers have been successfully rehabilitated here and the crocodile species are eagerly waiting for their turn.  The species once survived in Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra and Irrawaddy Rivers systems in the subcontinent.  

At Chambal River devoid of pollution they are less subjected to heavy metal exposure and the insidious fishermen's net.  They are also exploited by egg consumers, trophy hunters and widespread encroaching on the aquatic systems in order to create dams, barrage, irrigation canals and embankments that cut short their movement and restrict them to small nonviable shallows. 

Most of the endemic species are very much susceptible to extinction due to stock limits that arises from reduction in numbers caused by numerous factors. This is a a global phenomena and not limit to India.

The reason behind the successful rehabilitation of gavial is the establishment of  breeding centers in the country. This begins with collection of eggs from the rivers where the species is present and then rearing them in large numbers in the centers. After a certain post hatching they are rehabilitating back into the aquatic systems that they frequented.   

One of the major rehabilitation center is situated in Kukrail near Lucknow erstwhile domain of Nawabs. Another rehabilitation center is the Madras Crocodile Bank situated in Chennai run by famous herpetologist Romuous Whittaker and his wife Jai.    

Saving Gharials Using Religious Significance 

Wikipedia Article on Conservation Gavial Morphology Status & Conservation in India

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


             

Sunday, February 7, 2021

Buffer Zone Transition to Eco Sensitive Zone

 Eco Sensitive Zone or Ecologically Fragile Areas - EFAs

This is new concept is being developed, implemented and regulated by MOEF in India.  I believe  eco-development committee with public participation will play a vital role in the management of out ring or the buffer zone of National Parks, tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries ((WLS) all notified as such but deemed to be considered as Protected Areas.   

Practically renaming buffer zone as eco-sensitive zone has very little consequences for the resident public mostly tribal farmers. But this whole exercise would not have been considered without some changes being brought about.  


Farming as usual by the locals will continue outside the limits of reserve forests. Certain industry will be banned as they are already banned but the notification would mean more will fall under the purview.  

The declaration is under the purview of  Environmental Protection Act 1986 in which a sub section 3 (2) (v) empowers the Central Government to manage or notify certain commercial activities in such zones as banned or permissible or to be regulated.  The effort is to provide greater protection and a smooth transition to outer areas which do not face such restrictions.  

Biodiversity, biotic and abiotic pressures, environmental friendly land use limits, pollutants and other factors have to considered whence framing guidelines in these areas which are specific to each Protected Area.  The criteria would be nearly the same like that in declaring No Development Zone by the Government of India.

The guidelines, restrictions etc may be reviewed by the Central Government whenever it decides. The ESZ could be notified keeping ecological sensitivity into account based on species rarity,  ecosystem based and also based on Geo Morphological Features.  

This strategy was formulated in 2002 meeting of  National Board for Wildlife  India. The area designated was ten kilometres in the periphery of the core or in case of tiger reserves the critical tiger habitat.            

Albeit this concept stands as highly important for conservation and environment in India there are  many problems faced by the PAs in different states which are creating a hesitancy. The outer rings around many PAs are ill-defined due to prevalence of a high population density, heavy industries and even major urban settlements. All this will certainly create a state of conflict and make implementation difficult. In around such PAs the die has already been cast. Uprooting established activities would hamper development as many State bodies say.  

We are certainly at cross roads either we give two hoots to wildlife conservation and protection or face upheaval in order to rectify all anomalies made in the past whence the concept of proper land use pattern was not a consideration.  

Besides sustaining the sink populations due to active breeding since conservation initiatives were implemented these are a vital wildlife corridors for migrant species in India. Migration is important for cross breeding and thus the transfer of genes from one distant areas to another. If this is not allowed to happen inbreeding will lead to near extinction possibility hampering all conservation initiatives in the country. Though the need for creating viable corridors is without any doubt, the implementation for political dispensations is difficult as large number of human settlement translocation would be required. 

This is being penned for amateur enthusiasts interested in conservation. In the past few centuries humans have encroached upon sensitive ecosystems and destroyed them. Those remaining or are partially viable are subject of this policy. Many species find coexistence in close vicinity with humans impossible, and furthered by indiscriminate land use mostly for agriculture the sensitive species lose ground quickly. This tragedy has occurred in our country extensively.  Swamp deer is a tangent example of this duress imposed by humans in India.

For greater clarity read article of Wikipedia EFAs          

Further Read: Our Urban Footprints         

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


             

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Conservation: Our Urban Footprints

 Exploratory Zeal or Human Greed 

Being a extremely mobile species with intelligence and thought we have explored and invaded every nook and corner of the World. Unfortunately our thoughts and an intelligent approach as been vitiated and overpowered by greed and lust. Animal Kingdom does not understand these vitriolic virtues because it cannot think beyond the existential limits set for it by nature. We humans appear as aliens with no existential fear, and thus hell bent upon destruction of nature. Are we eventually planning to settle in colonies in other planets or will our actions lead to the imperative. This may be yet unclear, but our escape from Earth is definite...perhaps much before the expiry of the Sun.      

We have not been killed by curiosity rather we have murdered and plundered due to it. Our greed does not know no end, and our desire to amass is unique to us in this animal kingdom. We run after comfort, material wealth and now automation all this has come about by exploitation of finite natural resources chiefly minerals and fossil fuels. 


Not a Rat Race this It is Human Madness 

There is a weak effort to contain and balance the carbon emissions and the resultant pollution. Alternate energy perhaps would fetch redemption one day.  Global warming is spreading like wildfire and so are the pandemic. It is a free for all in absence of a pragmatic World order. The quasi governmental bodies on global scale are an abject failure or at best existing for name sake. The impact of various pacts between Nations is not very productive and energy consumption is on disastrous scale. This is not a rat race, on the contrary an example of extreme human madness, we should stop maligning the creature which lives within the biological limits set by the nature.    


We are not lacking in desire to preserve the globe and prevent further extinction including that of human species. We are just entangled in a race for destruction within and a callous approach which time and again rings bell that everything is not okay. In order to outdo each other we are taking steps in spite of constraints. Nuclear proliferation is one fine example.  Destruction of nature is  more internecine than the threat of a nuclear war which so far has been easily constrained due to fear of retaliation. 

Understanding extinction requires understanding of many facets of life since nature does not retaliate like in case of nuclear war  rather it becomes ineffective incapable of supporting life. This will become a reality if we continue to damage life supporting systems.  


In countries like India it was the indiscriminate land use pattern that destroyed precious ecosystems. The agricultural expansion though with good intent has destroyed millions of square miles of natural land that had remained untouched besides the early human encroachment which was severely restrictive. Commercial farming and wood logging the World over is proving to be disastrous but goes on unabated destroying our green lungs. It is the main reason for species extinction on global scale. 

From hunters we turned hunter gatherers and then nomadic pastorals before settling down as agrarian communities. We saw another World order as industrialization became the mainstay of our economies. The last two phases have been instrumental in damaging the Earth the most. But the destruction continues unabated with equal vigor in the contemporary era. Now urbanization in remote areas has become imperative. 

Expanding Urban Footprint

The linear movement of  humanity has been most invasive thanks to recent technological developments and race for a wealthier status not only among the elites but for the masses as well. We have been reckless in pursuing our of objectives totally neglecting the impact our actions carried forward. Prime ecosystems and niche habitats have been pounded by hammer persistently. 

Romantic Illusions 

This coexistence of humans in conformity with nature is at best a romantic illusion. India being and old civilization we dwell in many such romantic illusions at times adulterating the pragmatic approach. The crux of this article is to change our approach as regards infrastructure development and agrarian practices and thus stem the rot. 


Whence polluting industries are discouraged regarding procurement of extensive, land the resistance is simply a threat perception that it could unsettled traditional economic practices existing since centuries, but in severely degraded land with no muscle for regeneration industries provide a better option for economic revival than dying agrarian practices. This is applicable in overpopulated and poor countries like India. Why this is being advocated as alternative? This question arises as we  have severely eroded most of our natural lands, and the ecology is damaged beyond repair in such places...there is no choice.   


Containing Urbanization to Save The Tiger         

We are living in a country which was introduced to sound conservation ethos, and that played a vital role in preservation of whatever remains. But there is a conflict that prevails. Can we regenerate severely damaged ecosystems in urban areas? or Lend them to Industry while greater importance is accorded to intact ecosystems. This approach will certainly prevent extinction of key species including the tiger. 



Tiger

This big cat is highly sensitive to its environment and human intrusion, like few other species. An unwarranted change in the food chain, human intrusions and invasions, virulent epidemic can lead to a certain extinction of the big cat. Animals like the swamp deer are highly susceptible to habitat change and human intrusions as well. And we have seen this happen. Most of the species on Earth need a human-less environment and we should respect this by staying way from sensitive ecosystems. Over or unsustainable fishing is one example of how we are eroding aquatic ecosystems amid terrible food shortages. 

Protective Area Concept  

The protective area concept is proven to be a boon for species survival especially the inviolate areas. Wildlife conservationists or environmentalists should study how efficiently this is being managed in India. The species are being protected and are breeding well besides the benefit of regulated tourism is raising local economy in a commendable manner.  Local sentinels play a key role in protection of the species and income from inheritance is most welcomed. The tiger reserves have set a fine example where tourism income from the park is fetching revenue for conservation and benefiting the local communities immensely.    

But PAs can be susceptible to human greed and political infringement. Some politicians are least sensitive to environmental concerns due to greed for vote and thus register policies that pleases the vote bank. These islands created in India are heaven for sensitive species as resource banks. The day PAs are de-notified it will be disastrous. Many among the political set ups are totally oblivious of environmental concerns and this can happen whence they come to rule the roost. The perception is not chimerical mind you!          

But can we release more land for the predators survival?  

This is a testing proposition especially for the dispensations that come at helm time to time. Dense human populations are a major threat to the environment, unfortunately they can also destabilise ruling dispensations. Need I say more...     

If we have to prevent further extinction in the country we have to measure the impact of every step forward. Micro-urbanization is a major threat since most of the remaining ecosystems thrive in remote, less populated places. But changes are inevitable in economic practices in this age. But can we  create eco-friendly industry, encourage local craftsmanship, instill an eco-friendly residential design and architecture. Even minor forest produce can be productive outside the PAs in the periphery.  

Rabid urbanization is difficult to control in towns and major cities but in case of remote settlements we should seriously consider the ecological impact of infrastructure development. There has to be a plan in the place that differentiates action plans for places  on basis of their ecological importance. There exists no such necessary segregation as far as I know.    

We cannot develop using a single linear approach, alternatives indigenous perhaps and setting up limitation in the outer rings is the possible answer. This is being actively under consideration in India, and some steps have already been implemented.  Let us hope we will witness better implementation during our lifetime and leave enough of these islands provided us with fresh air, water and natural foods for our progeny. Biodiversity is essential for our survival least we forget. !       

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


             

Tuesday, February 2, 2021

Tiger Photography in India Basics

Although a very popular activity, tiger photography is done most by holiday makers using amateur camera and lenses. When the question of photography arises for professionals the tables change. 


The big cat is found in over fifty tiger reserves in the country spread across many states but not all. Being Protected Areas of top order and primary conservation unit the infrastructure for tourism is also good in most of the reserves. Few that lack facilities and amenities are powered by state tourism departments hence accommodation, food and accessibility is no problem at all. 

This subject is not for newbie just into the art of capturing images of wild animals. Photography on jeep safari is all right when it is shoot what comes in sight but serious efforts require lot of hard work and professional efforts. This endeavor may require special permission when the lens men plan to cross the limitation set by the jeep safari. Night time photography, on foot venture and crossing over the zones is definitely not on and if you wish to do this than better seek permission from the PCCF the chief warden of the State concerned. Permission may be required from the ministry as well (MOEF). 


Hence for extensive expeditions as mentioned above one should go through a tour operator familiar with such liaisons. This can be a time consuming affair and accreditations may be required. 

Alternative for such extensive efforts is the full day safari organized by many reserves. This fulfills the needs of the lens men.  In this safari one can enter half an hour earlier than set time and exit half an hour late when it is nearly dark. This span of time is enough to maximize opportunity to come across the big cats. There is no zone restriction hence you can quickly check hotspots as the guide informs you. 


For capturing nocturnal images you can book tour for night safari in the reserve. These are organized in the buffer or outer ring and do offer an opportunity to come across the big cats. Although sightings are scare but the added advantage is coming across nocturnal mammal to photograph if that adds to your portfolio.               

You do not need long lenses for this endeavor a medium sized one is more than sufficient since the big cats are encountered quite close often. What you need is quality equipment, a monopod and a sand bag besides good pair of binoculars. Winter clothing is must until unless you plan the expedition in hot summers. 



A team comprising of a good driver, forest guide and a naturalist is ideal for trekking tigers in the natural habitats. Experience counts and many have it. Consult the tour organizer regarding the choice of the best reserve. Another option is to consult the hotel you are booked in they will be better able to guide you being local. They will know which routes are productive and will also book your expeditions in the core area of the park.   

Please do not plan a tiger photo tour in India yourself. Take assistance from experts. Lot of planning is required…and the safaris have to be booked much in advance.  An extended stay is a must for this endeavor besides you can travel to other reserves to expand your horizon. India is an interesting country and if the visit is planned well you will love being there.      

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


             

Tiger Conservation : Macro Solutions

The root causes of threat to big cat conservation in India are multifarious. Nevertheless the picture is not as gloomy with some fantastic conservation success. But  the doomsday still looms large in spite of favorable policies and legislation being implemented. The frequent instances of poaching, accidents and habitat loss state that mush more has to be done.  

India is a vast diverse country with considerable amount of freedom whatever the detractors and few others opine. There are expressed and practiced lot of diverse views within the framework of constitution which is good for democracy. There are few of those with extraterrestrial loyalty and stance that opposes whatever the country stands for - they are surviving anyway. In tiger conservation they are inconsequential but a big threat to the Nation as whole. 

But over zealous, power hungry politicians are not left out of the purview since they oppose even those policies which are productive and beneficial. Hunger for power, corruption, and fanatical opposition of those in the prevailing dispensation are the reason. Some undue power practices in the country impact all aspects of management including conservation.      



But as far as the tiger is considered there needs to be aggressive unified  stance for its protection and conservation. Right from the beginning of the onslaught the beleaguered predator has been the victim of human apathy. It has not so far faced any extensive biological threat from inbreeding, pathogens or disease affliction of various orders. The threat is from within. It is how we manage our environment to a large extant and the land use patterns adopted for a country slated for fast pace development modeled upon that adopted by the developed Nations. Huge Dams and Mega Projects that impact the environment are doubtful implementation which may impact water resources and forests our green lungs. In most of the cases ecological cost of mega infrastructures  have not been taken into account?   

With a huge population to feed, and an economy always under stress managing species conservation and ecosystems is at cross roads. The system is further stressed whence the question of saving species arises which in the near perspective appears inconsequential to many.  

The stress upon development in terms of infrastructure is immense...and the industrial upswing due to cheap labor is inevitable. The environment is further vitiated by rapid urbanization taking place often at the cost of natural places with micro ecology. This is giving rise to a conflict which accords little room for species conservation and preservation of ecosystems already decimated to a large extent. Man animal conflict is widespread prevailing for example. 

Another threat the animal faces is the populist nature of democracy with great emphasis on appeasement for political gains. This leaves little room for the endangered species especially in the corridors of the safe heavens. The legal provisions and law and order practices are at best compromising. With large settlement and agrarian pressure further undermined by political expediency and populism the threat perception is not chimerical at all. In spite of increasing population with core of the tiger reserves and expansion of viable habitats the danger persists to its survival in India. The cards fall in favour of humans and neglect other life forms. We live in human dominated World with policies disparately favoring us at the cost of other forms of life and precious natural resources.    

There are people in politics, the bureaucracy some NGOs and many in public who care hoots for  saving the big cats. 

Although the creation of Protected Areas and enactment of Wildlife Protection Act 1972 have been milestones in stemming the rot that had set in during the Raj, and to some extent in post independence era nothing consequential has happened in later days that expresses deep concern for our wilderness.     

Frequent instance of poaching with weak legal implications, organised trade in wild animal parts, and frequent infringement of habitats outside the core of the PAs need immediate redress. These anomalies are further accentuated by forest clearance due to firewood demand, and increasing land for industries, agriculture and settlement.  

Paradoxically the system appears to be  focused more on tiger tourism which is benign under the watch, generates revenue and powers local economies. 

A consensus between the field biologists, wildlife managers, bureaucrats and those in power is needed as imperative. Sound policies for inviolate premises, and efforts to save habitats outside the reserves is need of the hour. This should begin with stemming urbanization and controlling commercialization in the immediate confines of the PAs. Greater stress should be placed on eco-friendly tourism infrastructure and livelihood initiatives in an around the critical tiger habitats. 

The PAs at the moment are islands for conservation, but with constant threat of inbreeding and increasing populations, creation of viable corridors is a must. Few in power would wager since it would call for large scale translocation of human settlements. Macro solutions are the need of the hour, and this should happen if we wish to save the tiger in India. 

Although the successive Governments have kept an eye on conservation of our National Animal initiatives much bolder steps are required. There is no shortage of expert wildlife managers in India to guide the process. A greater political will and public participation or rather encouragement is required. Jai Hind!                             

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


             

Sunday, January 31, 2021

Tiger Poaching is Not Man Animal Conflict. It is Crime

Poaching is a heinous crime which is not a man animal conflict and, this misconception has to be correctly implanted in the society. Snaring, electrocution, poisoning, all are done on pretext of poaching for small game thus mitigating the enormity of the crime in the public view. I do not know if any possible leniency accrues from the legal framework as such. Or is it labeled as small game poaching to address culpability of  sentinel in a more acceptable manner.  What can we do?      

Tiger

The recent snaring of a young tigress in the buffer zone of Kanha National Park adds up to another heinous crime against the beleaguered predator. Snaring is unimaginable painful and gruesome. Poaching in the buffer zones is a regular occurrence albeit the span between is reassuring but at the same time it lulls the set up into complacency. These incidences keep on happening infrequently and some may go unnoticed from the public eye. For death of the tiger is sometimes kept in a veil of secrecy for reasons unknown or simple to ward of public pressure.  

After every tiger poaching there is some noise but like every crime the act is soon forgotten. We are famous for forgetting even gruesome crimes that belie human sensibility whence precious life is concerned. We suffer for weak memory. Although every life and every life form is precious,  non reversible incidence like killing of big cats means extinction of the species. Our National Animal can be killed so easily is startling fact.        

The vast spread of our jungles and the humanity that prevails in between is an excuse enough for those in charge of the protected areas to get away. And the legal provisions are so shallow that every murderer gets bail and the case drags on an on. Though punitive measures cannot come into consideration until the act is proved but there can be some prevalent signs or logic that can come into play of possibility of crime weighing down on the person assumed to be the culprit. Something that prevents outright bail. 

In such instances bail is a clear getaway  or escape from the grip of law. The legal lacunae and skillful advocacy and delayed criminal proceedings further attenuated by corruption in the courts and the clog that is present regarding the humongous number of cases is an encouragement for die hard criminals or in this context the poachers. This  criminal indulgence in tiger killing in India does not instill fear of the punitive measures and its repeated occurrence is assured.            

The punitive sentence awarded is also not enough...poaching of tiger leads to a jail of eleven years or so. And the indictment is rare. Why do we not consider killing of rare and endangered mega fauna on par with murder of human? Are we so biased against other life forms?  Not only this we continue to damage our environment by irrational resource utilization and management. And then we complain of  climate instability.  

If we can be so sagacious in legislating the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 then we can consider this as well. Strong punitive measure should be in place for killing endangered species.   

Indian Conservation Ethos

We are powered by the past in conservation our fabulous Vedic civilization outshines all global ethos in according sanctity to all life forms and nature as whole. We consider vital elements of nature as holy or sanctimonious why not the tiger or the leopard or the elephant? Is it because of past abundance and hence lack of importance of these species? This could be true and so is the truth that we fear changing Holy sanctions even if they are not rational anymore. Things need to change with time and prevalence of facts in the contemporary without fear of Holy wrath. Every Indian carries ethos of  the Vedic civilization within, howsoever shallow in some instances.      

The killing of big cats in India will continue unmitigated until unless strongly discouraging punitive measures  are put into the act.            

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


             

Saturday, January 9, 2021

Development & Our Attitude : A Trail of Death and Destruction

Albeit it is a necessity to develop infrastructure in the changing times with great emphasis on accommodating rising population and fulfilling economic goals of people...infrastructure development combined by use and misuse is proving to be a terrible scourge on our wildlife. It is shaping our lives as power hungry and luxury seeking aliens  that eventually will have to create glass bubble to survive once the atmospheric equilibrium is completely destroyed or damaged beyond repair.     


Before we extrapolate further few questions arises? 

Why does humanity go against Nature and Environment? Are we aliens?   

Why do humans mistreat wild animals? Do we suffer from animal phobia?

Why there is always a man animal conflict?  

Answers to these questions are not difficult to understand but the solutions are difficult to implement because we do not care. In confrontation between personal greed and sacrifice the former wins heads up. 

Our economic goals override wildlife and environment conservation. The priority of the States follow these norms as well in the grab of economic achievements. There is no sign board that says the buck stops here. 


Machinations surpass rules and regulations, political infringement leads to bending of green  environmental laws...even the courts are not able to hinder because of same page thinking (often). To this worst is added our negative outlook, and attitude towards all life forms leave aside the natural resources at our behest squealing for mercy.  When the Earth is torn apart for greed mining takes place leaving in its wake an agonising trail of death and destruction of nature nurtured for eons destroyed in few Universal seconds. The damage to nature is often irreparable a sad story permanently imprinted in the annals of human history on Earth. This gives rise to the question. Are we aliens with total disregard for this extraterrestrial conquest?       



For some tearing apart of strips from remaining forests is an economical adjustment while death of a tiger by accident is a sad story no more. It is not a cause for concern which could lead to amelioration and save precious wildlife...killed by our speed highways. The constant death of wild animals by electrocution and poisoning also ends up as a story for the news monger, not a major cause of concern. There is endless trail of death that is decimating our wilderness painfully slow, yes slow enough to mitigate concern.  

The recent brutalization of Gangetic Dolphin is a shameful reflection of our attitude towards other life forms. The brutalization of leopard, sloth bears and tigers are not news makers anymore for it happens...a price for survival in a human dominated ecosystem. Ironically we readily berate laws that violate minority status but we do not bring into same purview the status of other life forms in the country. 

Extolling Vedic ethos that value conservation and veneration of life forms is limited to political discourses whenever hustings are near. But so less weight does environmental issues carry in India the discourses are becoming a hear say.   

Decimation of wildlife in India is a cause for a National Discourse in order to lead to factual solutions that are implemented truthfully and sincerely. This discourse never happens because our National priorities differ or simply put wildlife conservation is an issue of least concern. 

So imperative is the need to develop concrete structures for urbanization and to generate wealth through enterprises we are even putting our lives to risk. The complains of polluted air and climate change are a constant in our lives now. No activities that maintain continuity of our exploitative lifestyle but are inimical to environment are considered as harmful anymore. There is no time to stop look an go. No time for realization of our wrong doings in order to keep up with pour rabid lifestyle. All it needs is a push and pull to keep fulfilling our greed and justifying our attitude towards other life forms and the environment.       

India does care about the mega species as a National priority through conservation initiatives like Project Tiger and so on. But is this enough holistic conservation ethos and concern for environment is a public domain. We the people should strive to rectify anomalies in our system as well as in our attitude and values systems. Perhaps we should return to Vedas.    

At present our value system is of least concern as far as other life forms are concerned and the environment. We are paying a price, the global rise in temperature, the melting of ice on the poles, pollution, zoonotic disease and imminent extinction of many species that will impact our environment for sure.     

Wait till our children grow up, they will certainly lament the neglect for destruction is a daily occurrence now. Hopefully the next gen cares about nature and preserves whatever is left!     

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323


             

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

Tiger Photo Safari : How to Best Organize?

Tiger is one of the most charismatic and aggressive predator, because of its incomparable beauty it is cynosure of a photographer’s eye. Well not only the lens men it is equally coveted by one and all. Some wish to see it in its natural habitat while some wish to catch scintillating images in their camera.

The desire to photographs the big cat is best fulfilled in India. With more than fifty reserves, it is most coveted destination for wildlife and tiger photography. Well not only that even the film makers vie to come here on their mission and many succeed.



Success depends upon few factors that experience teaches hence; lens men keep in touch with naturalists and tiger experts to decide upon their journey.  The guidance is valuable and most of the expeditions succeed in availing striking image of the predator in its natural habitat.

The prerequisite for tiger photography in India is a suitable camera with high quality medium lens and a mono-pod. This equipment need arises since the work has to be done from an open jeep,  people are not allowed to set foot in the wilderness of the reserves. It is not possible to film or photograph from a hide or a tent keeping the nature of the best in mind as well associated dangers being charged on being bitten by snakes. Any way this requires special permission from the MOEF or Ministry of Forest and Environment through the Chief Wildlife Wardens of the States.


Forget this need if you are a good lens man with experience. In most of the parks experienced naturalists and guide impart valuable advice in order to fulfill your mission.

You have to choose the best place with frequent sightings and a panoramic backdrop to come across a striking image. As far as tiger sighting is concerned there are quite a few places in the country that can deliver if you book more than five safaris. Professional photographers usually organize a week long program but amateurs do not, this advice is for them. Some of the best places are mentioned below:

  • Kanha NP
  • Bandhavgarh NP
  • Pench NP
  • Panna NP

All above are in Central India.

  • Ranthambore in Rajasthan
  • Corbett in Uttrakhand
  • Tadoba Andhari in Maharashtra
  • Nagzira in Maharashtra

These are few places with good sighting and hence accord moments with the big cats you would like to capture. The tourism infrastructure is sound in these destinations and travel is not much of a trouble. But the entry to the parks is limited and on a permit. This calls for advance bookings, hence contact the tour operator in India and ask them to book the safari as soon as your dates are set and program finalized.



The wildlife hotels are situated near the parks and it is good to book the accommodations as soon as the expedition is finalized. Sometimes during the festivals and weekend accommodations are fully booked so take heed. The tour operator will do all these booking in a package so that’s not much of a hassle. He will also assure the services of a naturalist who will assist you on the photo safari. Most of the naturalists are well versed with wildlife photography so that is a great help.  The local forest guides that must accompany you on the jeep are also of great help in tracking the big cat.     


For greater space and comfort on jeep, organize a solo expedition or else no more than two lens men accompanying you.  Always seek well maintained jeep registered with the forest department and avoid canter which seat many tourists. For photo safari in India  privacy is a must and the jeep offers this the best in the reserves. The reserves offer good enough chance to capture images of enchanting mammals and birds as well.   

Before embarking on tour read books on the tiger and Indian wildlife. Familiarize with destination and travel in India. The country is remarkably diverse and so is the terrain, I am sure you will enjoy the tour all the way through.       

 Read on... Exciting Tiger Safari          

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Uday Works as Freelance Naturalist and Blogs on conservation, tigers, environmental issues.

He also provides SEO and Website Contents in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summers.

He can be contacted at:

Mail: pateluday90@hotmail.com
 Mob: 09755089323