Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav highlighted the state’s remarkable progress in wildlife conservation on the occasion of International Tiger Day, stating that Madhya Pradesh, home to nine tiger reserves, proudly holds the title of the ‘Tiger State’.
He noted that the growing population of tigers and other wildlife is a result of sustained efforts, with Madhya Pradesh emerging as a model of effective conservation and management.
He also emphasized the role of community participation in reinforcing ecosystems and promoting tourism.
Dr. Yadav made these remarks at a state-level event held at the Kushabhau Thakre Convention Center in Bhopal, where he extended greetings to the public on Nag Panchami and inaugurated the programme with Deep Prajjwalan.
During the event, the Chief Minister flagged off three wildlife transportation vehicles, three wildlife medical vans, and two dog squad rescue vehicles, inspecting their advanced features designed to strengthen the state’s response to wildlife emergencies.
CM Lauds Forest Personnel for Enhancing Green Cover and Wildlife
Acknowledging the work of frontline conservation staff, Dr. Yadav said, “The tireless efforts of forest personnel have led to the expansion of forest cover and an increase in wildlife numbers.”
He added that Madhya Pradesh is becoming a leading example of human-tiger coexistence. He also noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state has reintroduced cheetahs and added Ratapani as the eighth tiger reserve.
He announced plans to develop zoos and wildlife rescue centres in Ujjain and Jabalpur that will focus on rehabilitation and conservation beyond conventional exhibits.
Dr. Yadav also said, “India is home to more tigers than any other country in the world—and Madhya Pradesh proudly leads among Indian states.” He cited the recent creation of Ratapani and Madhav Tiger Reserves and revealed that tiger safaris will soon be launched in buffer zones to offer controlled eco-tourism experiences.
Local Involvement in Conservation
The Chief Minister inaugurated a wildlife-themed exhibition and engaged with tribal women who tied rakhi to him and showcased local handicrafts. At the Pench Tiger Reserve stall, part of its 'Bagh Dev' initiative, Dr. Yadav molded a clay tiger replica, symbolizing his support for growing tiger populations.
Release of Key Publications and Launch of ‘Gaj-Rakshak’ App
Several major conservation documents were released by the Chief Minister, including the Hindi edition of the State Wildlife Management Plan (2023–2043), a manual on cheetah sedation and management, a wildlife management report, a publication from Pench Tiger Reserve, and a vulture census report.
He also unveiled a special elephant identification dossier from Bandhavgarh, a commemorative postal cover for Tiger Day, and a poster on wild owl species.
To reduce human-elephant conflicts, Dr. Yadav launched the ‘Gaj-Rakshak’ mobile app, designed to streamline conflict mitigation and monitoring efforts.
Documentaries and Awareness Films
The event also saw the launch of wildlife documentaries, including a Pench Tiger Reserve film on community-led tiger conservation, "Mrityunjay" by Kanha Tiger Reserve, "Satpura: Past, Present and Future," and "Abode of Cheetahs," spotlighting cheetah reintroduction.
Awards for Wildlife Champions
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav honoured individuals and teams for exceptional contributions to wildlife protection. The awardees included forest officers recognised by INTERPOL for apprehending an international tiger poacher, officials managing cheetah conservation, and local community members assisting in wildlife rescue and habitat protection.
Notable names included Shobha Jaware, Shubhi Jain, Mahavir Singh Pandey, and members of eco-development committees like Mirchibadi from Pench Tiger Reserve.
MP Leads in Wildlife Conservation: Forest Minister
Minister of State for Forests and Environment, Shri Dilip Singh Ahirwar, praised the role of Satpura Tiger Reserve in enhancing India's global conservation status.
He said, “Madhya Pradesh leads in the population of tigers, cheetahs, vultures and wolves.” He noted that under CM Yadav’s leadership, initiatives such as vulture census and multi-species conservation programs are setting new benchmarks.
The event was attended by key dignitaries including MLA Shri Rameshwar Sharma, Municipal Corporation Chairperson Shri Kishan Suryavanshi, Additional Chief Secretary (Forest) Shri Ashok Barnwal, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Shri Aseem Srivastava, and numerous forest department and community committee members.
