2023 - 50 Years of Project Tiger | Commemorative Coin

The 5th commemorative coin of 2023 was released to mark the 50 Years of Project Tiger. This coin marks a significant milestone as the Hyderabad Mint takes on the role of the primary mint for the first time.

Project Tiger is one of India’s most significant and visionary conservation initiatives, launched on 1 April 1973 with the primary aim of protecting the Bengal tiger and preserving its natural habitat. At a time when the tiger population in India had dwindled to alarming levels due to poaching, habitat destruction, and ecological imbalance, the Government of India recognized the urgent need for a focused and sustained effort to reverse the decline. Project Tiger emerged as a pioneering step, blending scientific conservation practices with community participation and strong legal protection to safeguard the nation’s most iconic wildlife species.

The project began with nine designated tiger reserves covering critical forested landscapes across the country. These reserves were created to provide secure habitats where tigers could breed and thrive without external threats. Over the years, the network has expanded significantly, reflecting both the growing commitment to conservation and the ecological importance of preserving diverse forest ecosystems. Today, India has the world’s largest tiger population, supported by a vast network of protected reserves that span varied terrains, from the dense forests of Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh to the mangroves of the Sundarbans.

A key feature of Project Tiger has been its emphasis on the core-buffer strategy. The core areas of tiger reserves are strictly protected zones meant for undisturbed wildlife activity, while the buffer zones promote co-existence with human communities through sustainable livelihood practices. This approach addresses the dual need of protecting wildlife and ensuring that local communities remain partners in conservation rather than adversaries. Eco-development programs, relocation support for villages inside core areas, and community engagement have strengthened the relationship between people and forests, enhancing the long-term success of the project.

Project Tiger also benefits from the enactment of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which provides the legal framework for preventing poaching and illegal wildlife trade. Additionally, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), established in 2006, oversees the implementation of the project, ensuring scientific monitoring, standardized management practices, and accountability across reserves. Regular assessments using advanced techniques such as camera trapping and GIS mapping offer accurate population estimates and help track the health of tiger habitats.

The results of decades of dedicated conservation efforts are evident today. India has witnessed a remarkable recovery of its tiger population, emerging as a global leader in big cat conservation. The success of Project Tiger has also yielded broader ecological benefits. Healthy tiger populations reflect thriving ecosystems, as tigers sit at the top of the food chain. Their presence signifies balanced habitats, rich biodiversity, and well-managed forests that contribute to climate resilience, clean air, and water security for millions of people.

Despite its achievements, Project Tiger continues to confront challenges, including habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and the threats posed by illegal poaching networks. Rapid development and land use changes also put pressure on wildlife corridors essential for tiger movement. Continued vigilance, scientific management, and public awareness remain crucial for meeting these challenges.

Project Tiger stands as a testament to India’s enduring commitment to wildlife conservation. It has transformed the fate of the Bengal tiger and set global benchmarks for preserving endangered species through vision, dedication, and collaboration. As India continues to strengthen its conservation strategies, Project Tiger remains a symbol of hope, resilience, and the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature.

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