Update data on big cats: Uttarakhand HC orders state govt

In a recent development, the Uttarakhand High Court has directed the state government to take immediate steps towards updating the data related to the "Conservation of Tiger and Associated Species in the Terai Arc Landscape."

This data, initially prepared in 2004, holds vital information about the tiger population and associated species in the region. The court also called upon the government to provide a comprehensive report on the status of the Tiger Conservation Plan for the Rajaji Tiger Reserve before the next hearing scheduled for December 20, 2023.

The court's decision follows a petition filed on August 17, 2023, which focused on measures to enhance the management of human-animal conflicts in the state. The petition raised concerns about deforestation and the impact of various infrastructure projects on wildlife and human settlements in the region.

Drawing attention to successful conservation practices, the petitioner highlighted the efforts of Annamalai, Sariska, and Dudhwa Tiger Reserves, as well as the innovative approaches employed by the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Notably, these states have adopted user-friendly websites and dashboards that provide information to the public without necessitating requests under the Right to Information Act.

During the proceedings, R.K. Sudhanshu, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, virtually joined the discussion. He informed the court that there has been a remarkable 61 percent reduction in human-animal conflicts in Uttarakhand over the past year. Sudhanshu further highlighted that the state boasts a higher number and population density of leopards and tigers compared to other states.

Regarding the Tiger Conservation Plan for the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, Sudhanshu confirmed that the plan is currently under preparation and is expected to be ready for submission within approximately two months.

The Uttarakhand High Court, under the leadership of Chief Justice Vipin Sanghi and Justice Rakesh Thapliyal, emphasized the importance of balancing developmental activities with conservation efforts. The court's directive urged the state government to update the crucial 2004 tiger conservation data and provide insights into the status of the Tiger Conservation Plan for the Rajaji Tiger Reserve before the next hearing in December.

This court action sheds light on the critical role that data and comprehensive conservation plans play in safeguarding the delicate balance between development and nature conservation. The proceedings also underscore the significance of learning from successful conservation practices in other regions to enhance wildlife protection and promote sustainable development.

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