Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said the state is a leading state in tiger conservation in India and could have nearly 1,000 tigers in the upcoming census.
Speaking at a state-level programme organised on the occasion of International Tiger Day, Yadav said Madhya Pradesh had 785 tigers according to the 2022 census. He expressed confidence that the number could reach close to 1,000 in the next census.
Bhopal region home to tigers living closest to humans
The Chief Minister said that if tigers live closest to human settlements anywhere in the world, it is in and around Bhopal.
He also highlighted the state government’s efforts to conserve gharials in rivers. Earlier, Rajasthan benefited more from gharial conservation efforts, but the government is now working to ensure that gharials released in Madhya Pradesh remain safe within the state.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav at the International Tiger Day program.
Guru Purnima is a festival of moving from darkness to light
Referring to Guru Purnima, Yadav said the festival is not merely about rituals and worship but represents the journey from darkness towards light.
He said India has followed the concept of being a “Vishwaguru” for centuries and that respect for nature has always been an integral part of Indian culture.
Citing scientist Jagadish Chandra Bose, the Chief Minister said the idea that plants possess life has been recognised in India since ancient times.
CM praises Laxmi Temple in Orchha
Yadav praised the grandeur of the Mata Mahalakshmi Temple in Orchha and said that while every government department is important, he particularly enjoys working with the Forest Department.
He said the state government has also initiated wildlife exchanges with other states. Efforts to prevent human casualties caused by elephants have produced positive results, he added.
The Chief Minister observing the exhibition at the event.
Saving tigers is like saving our own lives
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Shubhranjan Sen said the state’s leadership has always been sensitive towards wildlife conservation.
He said a forest can truly be considered healthy only when tigers, tigresses and their cubs are safe.
Tiger conservation is directly linked to protecting nature and human life, Sen said, adding that forest department officers and employees are playing an important role in these efforts.
New vehicles launched, exhibition reviewed
During the programme, Chief Minister Yadav inaugurated new vehicles provided for wildlife conservation and visited an exhibition showcasing conservation activities.
He also released departmental publications, unveiled teasers of documentaries on active wildlife management and felicitated Padma Shri awardees who are members of the State Board for Wildlife.
Forest protection committees, eco-development committees, village forest committees and forest personnel who have performed outstanding work were also honoured.
School and college students presented cultural programmes during the event.
Minister of State for Forest and Environment Dilip Ahirwar, along with senior Forest Department officials and employees, attended the programme.
