The majestic melanistic tigers, a rare and awe-inspiring sight, find their sanctuary in the heart of Similipal Tiger Reserve, Odisha. With the recent revelation from the 2022 All India Tiger Estimation cycle, Similipal Tiger Reserve emerges as the sole habitat recording the presence of melanistic tigers in India, signaling both uniqueness and the need for focused conservation efforts.
According to the estimation survey, out of the 16 tigers recorded in Similipal Tiger Reserve, an astonishing 10 were melanistic—a captivating testament to the reserve’s biodiversity and the genetic diversity within the tiger population.
Recognizing the significance of preserving this distinct genetic lineage, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has taken proactive steps by issuing a Standard Operating Procedure for the active management and rehabilitation of tigers. This strategic approach aims to facilitate the transfer of tigers from source areas, specifically targeting landscape-level conservation efforts.
Furthermore, the genetic composition of the tigers in Similipal Tiger Reserve has singled it out as a distinct genetic cluster, earmarked for specialized conservation initiatives. Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (CSS-IDWH), the reserve receives crucial funding assistance for multifaceted conservation activities.
Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, highlighted the comprehensive approach adopted for tiger conservation during his recent statement in the Rajya Sabha. He emphasized the allocation of funds towards conservation efforts, including raising awareness about tiger and wildlife conservation, habitat management, protection, eco-development, human resource development, and infrastructure enhancement within the reserve.
Integral to the conservation strategy is the statutory Tiger Conservation Plan, which forms the basis for the Annual Plan of Operation of the Tiger Reserve. This plan serves as a roadmap, outlining measures for tiger conservation, habitat preservation, and community engagement.
Similipal Tiger Reserve stands not only as a haven for these magnificent creatures but also as a symbol of India’s commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity. The presence of melanistic tigers within its lush landscapes underscores the need for sustained efforts to safeguard these rare and extraordinary big cats.
The discovery and preservation of melanistic tigers in Similipal Tiger Reserve serve as a reminder of the critical role played by protected areas in conserving endangered species and fostering biodiversity. As custodians of this unique genetic heritage, concerted efforts and ongoing support are vital to ensure the continued survival and thriving of these captivating melanistic tigers in their natural habitat.