Introduction
Tiger conservation in India is often projected as a success story, driven by expanding tiger numbers and protected reserves. However, a key question remains: Can conservation truly succeed by displacing indigenous and forest-dwelling communities?
Experts, conservationists, and human rights groups increasingly argue that democratic participation—not forced relocation—is the foundation of long-term tiger protection.
India’s forests are home not only to wildlife but also to communities who have lived there for centuries, practicing sustainable coexistence. Displacing them undermines both ecological balance and human rights. A modern conservation model must center people, not exclude them.
Why Displacement Doesn’t Work
1. Indigenous Communities Are Natural Custodians
Tribal communities have protected forests long before “protected areas” existed. Their traditional knowledge of water sources, animal behavior, medicinal plants, and fire-resistant forest practices is invaluable.
2. Eviction Creates Conflict, Not Conservation
When people are removed from forests, resentment and socio-economic distress follow. This often disrupts the very ecosystems conservation efforts aim to protect.
3. Empty Forests Are Not Automatically Safer for Tigers
Relocation does not ensure:
reduced poaching,
controlled fires, or
sustainable habitat recovery.
Without community stewardship, many forests become vulnerable to illegal activities.
Why Democratic Participation Is the Key
1. The Forest Rights Act Empowers Conservation
The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 recognizes the rights of forest dwellers and empowers Gram Sabhas to participate in conservation. Studies show forests under community management often have better biodiversity and reduced degradation.
2. Community-Led Conservation Builds Trust
Collaborative models where local communities work with forest departments foster trust, surveillance, and sustainable eco-livelihoods.
3. Global Evidence Supports Community Conservation
Countries like Nepal, Kenya, and Bolivia have shown improved wildlife outcomes when local populations are involved in decision-making and benefit-sharing.
A Sustainable Roadmap for Tiger Conservation
1. Strengthen Community Forest Rights
Recognizing and implementing community forest rights under FRA is essential for protecting habitats.
2. Replace Forced Relocation With Voluntary, Informed Choice
Communities should have full rights to stay, participate, or voluntarily relocate—with dignity and compensation.
3. Promote Conservation-Based Livelihoods
Eco-tourism, organic forest produce, conservation jobs, and habitat monitoring can improve both biodiversity and incomes.
4. Transparent, Democratic Governance
Forest departments, Gram Sabhas, and conservation experts must work together in decision-making.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why are forest communities important for tiger conservation?
They possess traditional ecological knowledge and have protected forests for generations, making them effective partners in conservation.
2. Does relocation improve tiger safety?
Not necessarily. Without community presence, forests often face increased illegal logging and poaching pressures.
3. What is the Forest Rights Act?
The Forest Rights Act (2006) recognizes the rights of forest-dwelling communities and promotes democratic forest governance.
4. Can people and tigers coexist safely?
Yes. Many regions in India show successful coexistence models where communities protect wildlife and habitats.
5. What is the best long-term conservation strategy?
Inclusive, democratic, community-led conservation backed by legal rights and ecological science.
Published on : 18th November
Published by : Selvi
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