Source: TI
Context: The Central Government’s plan to redraw the boundaries of Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan to reopen 50 closed mines has triggered strong opposition.
- The plan proposes to redraw boundaries to allow 50 mines (marble, dolomite, limestone, and masonic stone) to reopen.
About Sariska Tiger Reserve:
- Location: Located in Alwar district, Rajasthan, nestled in the Aravalli Hills.
- History and Status:
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- Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1958, a tiger reserve in 1978 under Project Tiger, and a national park in 1982.
- Known for being the first reserve in the world to successfully relocate tigers after local extinction in 2004.
- Features of the Tiger Reserve:
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- Total area: 1203.34 km² (Core: 881 km², Buffer: 322.23 km²).
- Terrain: Scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky hills.
- Fauna: Tigers, leopards, nilgai, sambhar, chital, peafowls, serpent eagles, vultures, and horned owls.
- Ecological Zone: Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forest ecoregion.
- Vital link in the Northern Aravalli Leopard and Wildlife Corridor.
- Tiger Revival Timeline:
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- 2004: No tigers left due to poaching.
- 2008–2010: Tiger relocation from Ranthambore via aerial translocation.
- 2025: Tiger count has risen to 48, showcasing successful conservation efforts.
