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18 Mar 2026
GS Paper 6
UP Special
Q. What are the conservation strategies implemented in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve to protect the Bengal tiger and other wildlife? (125 words) 8
Approach
- Give a brief about Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.
- Discuss various measures taken by PTR for wildlife conservation.
- Conclude suitably.
Answer:
Introduction
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR), established in 2014, is a vital conservation area in Uttar Pradesh, India, dedicated to protecting the Bengal tiger and other wildlife. Spanning approximately 730 square kilometers, PTR is part of the Terai Arc Landscape, characterized by Sal forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
Body
Conservation Strategies:
- Anti-Poaching Measures: PTR has implemented robust anti-poaching initiatives, including the deployment of the Tiger Protection Force and the use of advanced technologies like M-STrIPES (Monitoring System for Tigers - Intensive Protection and Ecological Status) to enhance patrolling and surveillance.
- Habitat Restoration: Efforts to restore degraded habitats through reforestation have helped enhance the prey base, supporting a stable tiger population.
- Community Engagement: Local communities are actively involved in conservation activities, including eco-tourism initiatives, which provide sustainable livelihoods and foster a harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife.
- Monitoring and Research: Regular monitoring of tiger populations and their prey, along with ecological studies, inform adaptive management strategies to ensure the reserve's ecological balance.
Conclusion
These comprehensive conservation strategies have led to a significant increase in the tiger population within PTR, exemplifying the effectiveness of integrated conservation efforts.