Telangana Forest Academy Celebrates Global Tiger Day: Minister Konda Surekha Calls for Tiger Conservation

Minister for Forest and Environment, Smt. Konda Surekha, called upon all sections of society to act responsibly regarding tiger conservation. She urged everyone to step forward with a sense of responsibility to protect nature, recognizing that the Earth is not merely a habitat for humans but a shared home for all living beings. The Minister participated as the chief guest at an event held at the Telangana State Forest Academy in Dulapally, Medchal-Malkajgiri district, to mark International Tiger Day. She viewed a photo exhibition organized for the occasion and watched a short film on tiger conservation.

The event was attended by Head of Forest Force Vinay Kumar; Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University Vice-Chancellor Danda Raji Reddy; PCCF (Development) Ratnakar Jauhari; CCF and TGSFA Director Priyanka Varghese; CCF N. Kshitija; Tiger Cell Research Scientist Ayan Sadhu; Amrabad Field Director Prasad; Kawal Tiger Reserve Field Director Shantaram; and various other forest department officials.

Addressing the gathering on this occasion, Minister Smt. Konda Surekha noted that International Tiger Day is observed annually on July 29. She noted that this initiative, launched in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 2010 to raise global awareness about the importance of tiger conservation, has today become a significant platform for nature conservation. She described the tiger as a symbol of forest wealth, stating that protecting the tiger means safeguarding forests, the environment, biodiversity, and the future of coming generations.

Minister Surekha expressed concern over the drastic decline in tiger populations due to factors such as poaching, deforestation, and illegal trafficking. She explained that to address this situation, the Congress government led by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi implemented the Wildlife Protection Act in 1972 and launched “Project Tiger” in 1973, initiating robust measures for tiger conservation across the country.

The Minister stated that, as a result of these measures, India has emerged as a global leader in tiger conservation today. She noted that India is home to approximately 75 percent of the world’s tiger population and that 58 tiger reserves are currently operating successfully in the country.

The Minister added that Telangana State also holds a distinguished position in this regard, noting that the Amrabad and Kawal Tiger Reserves have gained recognition as significant tiger sanctuaries in the country.

She highlighted that the tiger population in the Amrabad Tiger Reserve has increased significantly due to the development of water sources, habitat improvement, and the implementation of modern protection measures. Minister Surekha stated that a tiger reintroduction program has been undertaken to increase the tiger population in the Kawal Tiger Reserve.

She explained that, as part of this initiative, the Kawal Tiger Reserve has been linked with the Tadoba Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra to create favorable conditions for the natural movement of tigers. The Minister added that the Forest Department is also implementing programs to raise public awareness about environmental conservation.

On this occasion, Minister Surekha called for the protection of forests and wildlife, urging everyone to help bequeath a green Telangana to future generations. Marking International Tiger Day, Minister Konda Surekha emphasized that every citizen, alongside the Forest Department, bears the responsibility of tiger conservation.

Addressing trainees from Maharashtra, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Kerala at the Forest Academy, the Minister urged them to work with commitment, integrity, and a spirit of service to protect forest resources and ensure a green Telangana for the future.

Minister Surekha presented certificates of appreciation and cash awards to several Forest Department employees for their outstanding contributions to the conservation of forest resources and wildlife. She also awarded certificates and prizes to students who won the drawing competition organized to mark International Tiger Day.