Amrabad Tiger Reserve Relocation Plan Balances Conservation and Tribal Welfare

The Telangana government has initiated the rehabilitation and relocation of tribal families residing within the Amrabad Tiger Reserve as part of a broader strategy to balance wildlife conservation with socio-economic development. The move seeks to reduce human-wildlife conflict while ensuring improved living standards and livelihood opportunities for indigenous communities.

Location and historical background

Amrabad Tiger Reserve is located in the Nallamala hills of the Eastern Ghats in Telangana. It was earlier part of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve before the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014. The reserve is one of the largest tiger habitats in southern India and plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation.

Terrain and river systems

The reserve is known for its rugged terrain, deep valleys, and dense forest cover. The Krishna River flows through the region, along with several perennial streams originating within the reserve. These water systems contribute to major reservoirs such as the Srisailam Dam and Nagarjunasagar Dam, making the reserve ecologically significant.

Tribal communities and biodiversity

The Chenchu tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), has traditionally inhabited the reserve and depends on forest resources for livelihood. The region supports diverse flora, including dry deciduous forests with species such as teak, bamboo, acacia, and medicinal plants. The fauna includes tigers, leopards, wild cats, sambar, chital, nilgai, wild boar, and gaur. The reserve is also rich in avifauna, with over 300 bird species recorded.

Important Facts for Exams

• Amrabad Tiger Reserve lies in the Nallamala hills of the Eastern Ghats.
• It was carved out of Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve after 2014 bifurcation.
• The Chenchu tribe is a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group associated with the reserve.
• The Krishna River flows through the reserve and supports major dams.

Significance of relocation initiative

The relocation programme aims to strike a balance between conservation goals and tribal welfare. By reducing anthropogenic pressure within the core forest areas, the initiative is expected to enhance wildlife protection, particularly for tigers, while enabling tribal families to access better infrastructure, healthcare, and education outside the reserve.