Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar Sees 75% Surge in Tiger Count, Declared Very Good
Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) has witnessed a remarkable surge in its tiger population, recording a 75 per cent increase from 31 in 2018 to 54 in 2022. This exceptional growth has led the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to declare VTR as very good, ranking it among the top tiger reserves in the country.
Nestled in West Champaran district, VTR stands as Bihar’s solitary tiger reserve. The reserve’s journey has been commendable, starting with only 28 tigers in 2014 and gradually reaching 31 in 2018. Now, it proudly boasts a population of 54 tigers, an achievement applauded by PK Gupta, Bihar’s chief wildlife warden.
Beyond being a testament to the reserve’s success, the surge in tiger numbers also reflects the overall health of the forests. Recognizing this, the NTCA classifies VTR under the very good category. The NTCA categorizes tiger reserves across the country into four groups: excellent, very good, good, and fair.
Out of the 51 tiger reserves, 12 have been categorized as excellent, while 21, including VTR, fall under the very good category. Additionally, 13 reserves are in the good category, and the remaining five have been deemed fair, according to Gupta.
The NTCA report, titled The Status of Tigers – Co-predators and Prey in India, 2022, highlights VTR’s outstanding management efforts. The report commends the reserve for successfully handling conflicts between humans and animals, as well as for its robust anti-poaching measures and efficient human management in the buffer zone villages.
With a sprawling area of 909.86 sq km within the Valmiki Sanctuary in West Champaran, VTR was established as the 18th tiger reserve in 1990 and ranks fourth in terms of tiger population density. The presence of the Gandak and Masan rivers further enhances the reserve’s captivating scenery, with the awe-inspiring Himalayan Mountain Range serving as a breathtaking backdrop along the Gandak River.
This achievement is a testament to the dedicated conservation efforts and effective management practices implemented at VTR. The surge in tiger numbers offers hope for the future of the precious wild species and emphasizes the importance of further protecting their natural habitats.
The success story of Valmiki Tiger Reserve serves as an inspiration for other reserves in the country, showcasing the potential for conservation and the positive impact of sustained efforts in preserving our wildlife and ecosystems.
