NTCA Prioritizes Village Relocation for Tiger Conservation

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) emphasized the need for voluntary village relocations from core areas of tiger reserves to enhance wildlife conservation and support forest-dwelling communities. Concerns about the attractiveness of current rehabilitation packages and the demand for revision were also raised during the meeting.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is prioritizing the voluntary relocation of villages from core tiger reserve areas to improve wildlife conservation and promote inclusive growth for residents in forest zones. This move is seen as crucial by NTCA Chairman and Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, who stresses the importance of supporting both tiger conservation and community integration.

Despite the initiative, concerns were raised at the NTCA meeting regarding the effectiveness and appeal of the current relocation packages for communities dwelling in critical tiger habitats. It was suggested that these packages, last updated in 2021, require revisions to better align with inflation trends and community needs.

Amidst these developments, attention was drawn to the rights of tribal and indigenous groups living in these areas. Their deep-rooted connection to the forests has been acknowledged, though the implementation of their legal rights under the Forest Rights Act remains a point of tension and a barrier to relocation efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)