Tiger Safari Initiative in Jharkhand’s Barwadih Forest
The Jharkhand government is set to establish its first tiger safari in the Barwadih Western Forest Range. This area is part of the Palamau Tiger Reserve. The initiative aims to enhance tourism and provide a conservation education centre. However, concerns about local community displacement have emerged.
About Tiger Safaris
A tiger safari is a controlled environment for viewing tigers. It is not defined under The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The concept originated from the National Tiger Conservation Authority‘s 2012 guidelines. These guidelines suggested creating enclosures in buffer areas of tiger reserves to manage high tourist influx. The aim is to increase chances of tiger sightings, unlike traditional safaris.
Development of Tiger Safari Guidelines
In 2016, the NTCA issued guidelines for establishing tiger safaris. These were intended for rescued or conflict-prone tigers. Initially, no zoo-bred animals were allowed. However, in 2019, amendments permitted the inclusion of zoo tigers. The Central Zoo Authority now oversees animal welfare and compliance in these projects.
Supreme Court Directives
In March 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that tiger safaris should not be within core or buffer areas of reserves. The court emphasised the need to protect natural habitats and conservation goals. This ruling influenced the Jharkhand government’s plans.
Jharkhand’s Safari Plans
The proposed safari will occupy approximately 150 hectares in the Barwadih Western Forest Range. It will host only rescued animals, not wild ones. The government anticipates that this project will boost tourism and create around 200 jobs for locals in various roles.
Project Development Process
Currently, the project is in the ideation phase. The Forest Department will prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) once approved. This report will be submitted to the NTCA and CZA for evaluation. The approval process may take five to six months, followed by an 18-month construction phase.
Community Concerns
Local leaders express worries that tiger safaris can marginalise forest-dwelling communities. They argue that such projects often portray locals as threats to biodiversity. The potential disruption of local economies is another concern. Restrictions on grazing and forest produce collection could severely affect Adivasi livelihoods.
Need for Community Consultation
Activists urge the government to consult local communities before proceeding. They stress the importance of obtaining consent from the Gram Sabha. This ensures that all aspects of the project are discussed transparently, preventing any breach of law regarding community rights.
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