Blitz Bureau
MADHAV National Park located in Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh has been declared as the new tiger reserve of the state. It is country’s 58th tiger reserve.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently released a tigress and announced it as a tiger reserve. The Chief Minister also inaugurated a 13- km long wall built for the protection of the park. This addition underlines the country’s dedication to expanding habitats for tigers and enhancing biodiversity. Spanning an area of 354.6 sq km, the park features diverse terrains, including forested hills, grasslands, and lakes, providing an ideal environment for wildlife.
The history of tiger reserves in India reflects a concerted effort to protect one of the country’s most iconic species. From its inception in 1973 to the present day, Project Tiger has evolved significantly, with ongoing efforts aimed at ensuring the longterm viability of tiger populations and their habitats.
The park was a favourite hunting spot for the Mughal emperors, including Emperor Akbar, and the Maharajas of Gwalior. The park was named after Madho Rao Scindia, a prominent Maharaja of Gwalior.
With the inclusion of Madhav National Park, Madhya Pradesh now boasts nine tiger reserves, the highest number in any Indian state. This brings out the state’s pivotal role in national conservation efforts. Yadav said the tiger population will now increase in the Chambal region as well. Domestic and foreign tourists will come in large numbers which will lead to new possibilities of development.
On this occasion, Scindia said that earlier leopards were brought to Kuno in Sheopur and now the tiger in Madhav National Park adjacent to Kuno National Park will increase tourism in this area. People will get to see both tigers and leopards in a single visit.
