Tourist footfall rises at Madhav Tiger Reserve

The newly declared Madhav Tiger Reserve in Shivpuri is witnessing a sharp rise in tourist visits after being officially recognized as a tiger reserve earlier this month. Previously known as Madhav National Park, the reserve had struggled to attract visitors, with only around 1,500 tourists visiting throughout last year. However, since March 11, nearly 400 tourists have already visited, marking a significant increase.

Boost for tiger conservation

Madhav National Park was declared a tiger reserve in early March, making it the 58th tiger reserve in India. The reserve spans 1,651 sq km and is part of the Ranthambore-Kuno-Madhav corridor, which is considered a crucial habitat for the increasing tiger population. Currently, the reserve is home to six tigers, including three tigresses, one male tiger, and two cubs.

With the arrival of another male tiger, the total number of big cats in the reserve will increase to seven, further strengthening conservation efforts. Wildlife authorities hope that this move will support tiger movement in the region and ensure the long-term sustainability of the species in Madhya Pradesh.

Deputy Director Priyanshi of Madhav Tiger Reserve stated that the park had previously struggled with low visitor numbers due to limited wildlife attractions. However, with the new status as a tiger reserve, public interest has surged. More wildlife enthusiasts and tourists are now flocking to the region, eager to witness the majestic big cats in their natural habitat.

Authorities expect visitor numbers to rise further as awareness about the reserve spreads. The government is also focusing on infrastructure development to accommodate the increasing tourist footfall.

New tiger to be introduced soon

A tigress translocated from Panna Tiger Reserve has already adapted well to her new habitat in Madhav Tiger Reserve. Since her release, she has successfully hunted two prey, indicating a smooth transition into the wild.

Now, officials are preparing to bring in another male tiger to boost the population. Initially, the plan was to translocate a tiger from Pench Tiger Reserve, but authorities have now reached out to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve for a suitable candidate.

"Most likely, the next tiger will now come from Bandhavgarh," said an official from Madhav Tiger Reserve.

Significance of tiger reserves in India

India currently has 3,681 tigers, according to the 2022-23 population estimate. The country’s tiger population is spread across five major landscapes, including the Shivalik Hills, Central Indian Highlands, Western Ghats, North Eastern Hills, and the Sundarbans.

The concept of tiger reserves was introduced under Project Tiger in 1973, initially covering nine reserves. Over the years, the initiative has expanded to 58 reserves, providing protected spaces for tigers while regulating human activities through core and buffer zones.

Madhya Pradesh leads the country in tiger population with 785 tigers, followed by Karnataka (563), Uttarakhand (560), and Maharashtra (444). The Madhav Tiger Reserve’s upgrade is expected to further strengthen the state’s leadership in tiger conservation.

With increasing tourist interest and conservation efforts, Madhav Tiger Reserve is on its way to becoming a key wildlife destination while playing an essential role in India’s ongoing tiger conservation journey.

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