Central Idea:

The article highlights the success of Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) in India in managing and conserving its tiger population, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach involving wildlife protection, community engagement, and ecological sustainability.

Key Highlights:

• CTR, spanning 1288.31 sq.km, has shown significant progress in tiger conservation, recording the highest density of wild tigers globally, from 231 to 260 in four years.
• The richly-forested, highly-biodiverse landscape attracts various enthusiasts and researchers.
• The article acknowledges the unsung heroes among the forest staff and local communities who contribute to the reserve’s ecosystem.
• Grassland and water management practices, strategic wildlife corridors, and addressing human-wildlife conflicts are vital aspects of CTR’s holistic approach.

Key Challenges:

• Human-wildlife conflicts, particularly with tigers and elephants, pose a formidable challenge.
• Ensuring the safety and security of the forest staff, who face risks while patrolling the reserve.
• Balancing the economic dependence of local communities on tiger-related tourism with the risks posed by wild animals.

Key Terms:

• Tiger Conservation Plan
• Core and buffer zones
• Biodiversity
• Grassland management
• Wildlife corridors
• Human-wildlife conflict
• Eco Development Committees (EDCs)

Key Phrases:

• “An unforgettable sight: the dread and danger lurking in the treacherous gaze of a stalking tiger.”
• “A delicate balance of forest flora and fauna is crucial for a healthy forest ecology.”
• “The rising incidence of human-elephant and tiger-human conflict poses a formidable challenge.”
• “Living with Tigers initiative aims at creating awareness and behavioral changes among local communities.”

Key Quotes:

• “A glimpse of the peerless king of the jungle in all his majesty is truly captivating.”
• “The only way ahead is by enjoining forest conservation upon all local stakeholders.”
• “The revival of the tiger since 1973 has meant a cultural renaissance and revival of our conservation ethics and values.”

Key Examples and References:

• The success of the beehive-fencing project to guard crops against wild elephants.
• The “Living with Tigers” initiative promoting awareness and behavioral changes among school children and villagers.
• The economic dependence of Ramnagar district on tiger-related tourism.

Key Facts:

• CTR covers 1288.31 sq.km and recorded 260 tigers in 2022.
• 27 different kinds of grasslands are present at CTR.
• The beehive-fencing project resulted in the creation of “Corbee Honey,” managed by local Eco Development Committees.

Critical Analysis:

The article acknowledges the complexity of human-wildlife conflicts as “wicked problems,” requiring unique solutions. It emphasizes the need for a collaborative, engaging, and socio-culturally-sensitive approach in addressing conservation challenges.

Way Forward:

• Continue efforts to balance economic benefits of tiger-related tourism with wildlife conservation.
• Scale up successful initiatives like the beehive-fencing project and “Living with Tigers” awareness program.
• Strengthen community engagement for long-term conservation efforts.
• Promote sustainable practices for wildlife protection, grassland management, and water conservation.

In essence, the article underscores the success of CTR in tiger conservation and the imperative of a comprehensive approach involving ecological sustainability, community engagement, and innovative solutions to address ongoing challenges.

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