Palamu Tiger Reserve
The relocation of Jaigir village marks milestone in conservation efforts at Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR). This initiative aims to reduce human impact on wildlife habitats. The new location for Jaigir is near Polpol village, just outside the core area of the reserve. This relocation is part of a broader strategy to enhance the living conditions of both wildlife and local communities.
Palamu Tiger Reserve
- Palamu Tiger Reserve is situated in Jharkhand, covering parts of Latehar and Garhwa districts.
- It encompasses 1,014 square kilometres, with a core area of 414 square kilometres and a buffer zone of 600 square kilometres.
- Established as one of the first nine tiger reserves in India under ‘Project Tiger’, it has a rich history in wildlife conservation, including the first tiger census conducted in 1932.
- The terrain features valleys, hills, and plains, with three rivers flowing through it, making it a unique ecological zone.
Flora and Fauna
The vegetation in Palamu consists of both moist and dry deciduous forests, primarily featuring Sal and bamboo. The area is rich in biodiversity, hosting key species such as tigers, Asiatic elephants, leopards, and sloth bears. The diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, making it crucial for conservation efforts. The relocation of villages is expected to enhance the habitat for these species by reducing human interference.
Relocation Process
The relocation process for Jaigir involved extensive discussions with villagers. The challenge was to provide adequate compensation and land for the displaced families. A solution was reached by compensating families with Rs 15 lakh and providing land to one member per household. This approach helped alleviate concerns about the relocation. This made Jaigir the first village to be completely relocated outside the core area. Eight other villages have been identified for relocation.
Benefits of Relocation
The successful relocation of Jaigir has freed nearly 1,000 square kilometres of land for wildlife. This space will allow for the natural behaviour of animals to flourish without human interference. The new village site near Polpol is envisioned as a model for other communities. Improved infrastructure, such as roads and transport, has also enhanced the living standards of relocated villagers.
Future Plans
Following the relocation of Jaigir, eight more villages have been identified for similar efforts. The aim is to create a sustainable environment for both wildlife and humans. The forest department is committed to developing Polpol as a thriving community, inspiring other villages to follow suit.
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