BY ARUN PRATAP SINGH
RAMNAGAR, 10 May: In a commendable achievement for wildlife conservation in Uttarakhand, a severely wounded female tigress in the north Jaipur Range of the Terai West Forest division has been successfully treated and released back into her natural habitat. The operation, executed under the leadership of Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Sandeep Giri with support from veterinary experts of the Corbett Tiger Reserve, reflects both the promise and the perils of wildlife rescue efforts in the state.
The injured tigress was sighted in a helpless state on on May 2. The tigress probably five to six years old, was unable to move due to severe injuries to her paws and extreme exhaustion. She was promptly tranquilised and transported to the Dhela Rescue Centre, where a dedicated team of veterinarians, led by senior wildlife doctor Dushyant, provided intensive medical care. Following several days of close monitoring and treatment, Dushyant declared the tigress fit for release. She has now been safely returned to her natural environment, marking a rare and successful rehabilitation.
The rescue has come amid a backdrop of mixed fortunes in tiger conservation across Uttarakhand. In recent months, multiple rescue efforts have ended tragically. A tiger rescued from the Kosi Block succumbed to illness despite swift intervention. Similarly, earlier this year, a male tiger died during transport in Kalagarh Range, and a tigress found near Haridwar succumbed to internal injuries before treatment could begin. Disturbing instances of suspected poaching have also emerged, including a leopard found dead in Champawat with its paw nails missing, suggesting human interference.
Natural threats to tiger populations remain high. Fatalities have been reported due to territorial fights, road accidents, and even elephant attacks in the Jim Corbett National Park. These incidents highlight the hazardous and unpredictable conditions faced by both wild animals and the officials working to protect them.
Nevertheless, Uttarakhand continues to stand at the forefront of India’s tiger conservation efforts. The recently completed Tiger Translocation Project, which saw five tigers moved from Corbett Tiger Reserve to Rajaji Tiger Reserve, aims to decongest core habitats and reduce conflict. Each translocated animal underwent thorough medical examination and was fitted with a radio collar for continuous post-release monitoring. With an estimated 560 tigers, the state now ranks third in India in terms of tiger population.
However, rising tiger and leopard numbers have also intensified human-wildlife conflict. In 2024 alone, there were 137 leopard attacks reported in the state, resulting in 15 human deaths. The proximity of human settlements to protected forest zones continues to pose a significant challenge. Conservationists stress the urgent need for better land-use planning, awareness campaigns, and rapid-response mechanisms to prevent such encounters.
