GUWAHATI: In a recent development, Manas National Park has witnessed a remarkable comeback of its tiger population, with numbers tripling from 2011 to 2019. This resurgence follows years of dedicated conservation efforts led by the Forest Department, local communities, and conservation groups like Aaranyak.
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A new study published in the Journal of Biological Conservation, led by Dipankar Lahkar of Aaranyak, highlights that the success is a result of increased funding, better protection infrastructure, and a stronger workforce. The study shows that the population density of adult tigers rose from 1.06 per 100 square kilometers in 2011-12 to 3.64 by 2018-19, and forecasts indicate that with continued efforts, the numbers could double by 2030.
The park’s growth has been aided by local community involvement and tourism revenue, which has bolstered the park’s management budget. Conservation initiatives provided alternative livelihood options for locals who previously depended on park resources, significantly reducing human encroachment and pressure on the park’s natural habitat.
“I personally feel privileged to have served as the Field Director of Manas from 2015 to 2019 and during the period I witnessed a significant rise in the tiger population. This growth can be attributed to the holistic management approach implemented by Park Authority, as well as key ecological considerations. I've observed numerous instances where cubs have matured into adults and successfully established their territories within Manas," stated Hiranya Kumar Sarma, IFS.
Aaranyak, with support from organizations like IUCN-KfW and Panthera, has invested in training park staff on improved patrol tactics, while educating communities on sustainable livelihoods. These combined efforts have helped local families to meet their livelihood needs within their villages, thereby minimizing dependency on the park’s resources.
While the increase in tiger numbers is promising, Manas National Park still faces challenges, particularly poaching and habitat degradation. As tiger populations grow, the risk of human-animal conflict also rises, with many cattle and livestock roaming freely near the park boundaries. Conservationists urge for more strategies, such as building predator-proof livestock enclosures to minimize these conflicts.
M. Firoz Ahmed, who heads Aaranyak’s Tiger Research and Conservation Division, pointed out that the long-standing collaboration among conservationists, government agencies, local communities, and cross-border entities has laid a strong foundation for tiger recovery in Manas.
Anindya Swargowari, former Park Manager of Manas and a retired forest official, emphasized that Manas’ recovery symbolizes the success of collective conservation action. He noted the crucial roles of police, local authorities, and community groups who work alongside park management to keep threats in check.
