Consider the following statements regarding the notification and alteration of tiger reserves in India:

Statement I: The State Government shall, on the recommendation of the Tiger Conservation Authority, notify an area as a tiger reserve.

Statement II: Any alteration in the boundaries of a tiger reserve shall be made unilaterally by the State Government.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

The correct answer is option 3.

In News

• The Centre has declared Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh as India's 58th tiger reserve. This makes it the 9th tiger reserve in the state. The announcement was made by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, highlighting India's commitment to tiger conservation.

Key Points

• As per the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the State Government can notify an area as a tiger reserve only on the recommendation of the Tiger Conservation Authority. Hence, Statement I is correct.
• Any alteration in the boundaries of a tiger reserve or its de-notification requires the approval of the Tiger Conservation Authority and the National Board for Wildlife. The State Government cannot make such changes unilaterally. Hence, Statement II is incorrect.

Additional Information

• The Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body responsible for overseeing tiger conservation efforts in India.
• Core and buffer areas of a tiger reserve are designated based on scientific and ecological assessments.
• Any relocation of communities from tiger reserves must follow strict guidelines, including consent from affected communities and rehabilitation measures.
• Madhav Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh currently houses five tigers, including two cubs, and has been part of the tiger reintroduction project.