New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to wildlife enthusiasts on Global Tiger Day, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to protect tigers through science-based conservation and community participation.
Global Tiger Day, also known as International Tiger Day, is an annual event held on July 29 to raise awareness about tiger conservation, protect natural habitats, and address declining wild populations. It was established in 2010 at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Greetings to all wildlife enthusiasts on Global Tiger Day. The people of India are proud of the fact that we are home to almost 70 per cent of the global tiger population.”
He said that India’s tiger conservation efforts are inspired by “our centuries-old culture of living in harmony with nature and powered by the collective will of our people”.
“We also reaffirm our commitment to science-based conservation, community participation and sustainable development that strengthens tiger conservation,” the Prime Minister added.
He also hailed the forest officials and scientists for their role in safeguarding tigers.
“The efforts and dedication of our forest personnel, scientists and conservationists have also played a key role in tiger protection. In that spirit, India remains committed to empowering local communities and reducing human-wildlife conflict,” PM Modi added.
According to the government, today, India is home to the world’s largest wild tiger population, accounting for nearly 70 per cent of all wild tigers globally.
“This success reflects decades of sustained policy support, scientific management and community participation, positioning India as a global leader in tiger conservation,” officials said.
They further added that by protecting tigers and their habitats, the Indian government is “strengthening biodiversity conservation, enhancing ecological security and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat through sustainable development”.
The All India Tiger Estimation (2022) places India’s tiger population at 3,682. The 2022 All India Tiger Estimation covered 20 States and surveyed over 6.41 lakh kilometres on foot.
(IANS)
