Manas National Park in Assam has seen a 3-fold increase in its tiger population in the last 10 years. This is thanks to the efforts of the government, agencies, NGOs and local communities.?
As per a report in The New Indian Express, a 2019 study showed that the park had 52 tigers, Back in 2010 it had 16 or so. This is according to Firoz Ahmed, head of tiger research and conservation division of Aaranyak, a biodiversity conservation and research organisation.?
The even better news is that 3 new tigers have been seen in the new 360 sq km "first addition" tiger habitat. This is cause for celebrations as far as forest officials are concerned.?
"I am very pleased to observe the cohesion, ownership and partnership of government and non-government entities to bring the park back to the current state. This is not seen anywhere in Assam or elsewhere in the country," said Assam's Principal Chief Conservator of Forest AM Singh.?
"The Manas National Park has surprised all with its tiger numbers in 2019. During times of conflict, the park infrastructure was badly damaged. The whole park was left open due to a lack of patrol by forest staff who were harmed by armed miscreants at times. This led to thinning of populations of almost all species and loss of habitats due to severe human disturbances," said Aaranyak's statement.??
Things began to change in 2005 when local community organisations were encouraged to help preserve the park. Many tigers till then were falling prey to poachers.
But things are changing now and this park is doing its bit to preserve India's national animal.?