- Context: New Tiger Reserve: Madhya Pradesh’s Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary has been officially declared a tiger reserve, becoming the state’s eighth.
Relevance : GS 3 (Environment )
- Area Breakdown: The core area spans 763.8 sq km, with a buffer area of 507.6 sq km, covering a total of 1,271.4 sq km.
- Economic Benefits: Ecotourism promotion is expected to boost local employment and improve livelihoods for nearby communities.
- NTCA Funding: The designation enables funding from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for better management and conservation efforts.
- Conservation Support: Eco-development programs will aid the region’s inhabitants, supporting sustainable development.
- Geographical Significance: Located in the Vindhya Hills, Ratapani also includes the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Community Rights Protected: The tiger reserve includes nine revenue villages in the buffer zone, ensuring the protection of local villagers’ rights.
- River Basin: The reserve lies near the Betwa River Basin, playing a vital role in the local ecosystem’s water management and supporting diverse wildlife.
- Future Developments: Madhav National Park is also set to receive approval for tiger reserve status within the next 15 days.
