Enhanced tiger population at Valmiki Tiger reserve

Context: The increase in tiger numbers in the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar was facilitated by diminished human activity, including bans on mining.

In VTR, the status of tiger conservation has seen significant improvements:

Mining Restrictions: Strict measures, including a complete ban on sand and stone mining within VTR, along with rigorous restrictions on mining activities in its eco-sensitive zone, have been implemented. This has led to a notable increase in grassland cover.

Tiger Population Growth: The tiger population within the protected area has witnessed a substantial increase. In 2023, the number of tigers rose to 54, marking a significant growth from 31 in 2018 and 28 in 2014.

Recognition by NTCA: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has recognized and acclaimed the Reserve for the commendable 75% rise in tiger numbers. Additionally, the conservation efforts have earned VTR a categorization of 'Very Good' by the NTCA.

Note: Bihar has set a goal to establish its second tiger reserve in the Kaimur district by the year 2024.

Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar:

• Geographical Location: Positioned at the India-Nepal border in Bihar's West Champaran district.
• Biogeographic Zone: Situated in the Gangetic Plains biogeographic zone.
• Himalayan Terai Forests:  Marks the easternmost extent of the Himalayan Terai forests in India. Sole tiger reserve in Bihar.
• Constituent Areas: Comprises Valmiki National Park and Valmiki Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Surrounding Features: Bordered by Nepal's Royal Chitwan National Park to the north. Flanked by the river Gandak on the western side.
• River Systems: Rivers Gandak, Pandai, Manor, Harha, Masan, and Bhapsa traverse various sections of the reserve.
• Forest Characteristics: Exhibits a blend of bhabar and terai tracts.
• Vegetation Types: Encompasses Moist mixed deciduous, Open-land vegetation, Sub-mountainous semi-evergreen formation, Freshwater  swamps, Riparian fringes, Alluvial grasslands, high hill savannah, and Wetlands.
• Floral Diversity: Notable flora includes Sal, rohini, sihor, teak, bamboo, semal, Mandar, shisham, Jamun, Gular, etc.
• Rich Fauna: Large predators like Tigers, Leopards, and Indian Wild Dogs. Presence of Leopard cat, fishing cat, Deer species (sambar, barking deer, hog deer), etc.