Daily Current Affairs : 31-July-2024
A recent report by the Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG), released on International Tiger Day, sheds light on the developing problem of displacement resulting from Project Tiger. The report highlights that the conservation initiative, aimed at protecting tigers, is displacing a large number of Scheduled Tribes and other forest dwellers. The findings of the report raise concerns about the rights and well-being of these communities who have been living in tiger reserves for generations.
Rising Displacement Figures
One of the most alarming findings of the RRAG report is the dramatic increase in the number of displaced individuals. Since 2021, there has been an average surge of 967% in displacement across various protected areas. This means that in the last few years, the number of people forced to leave their homes for the sake of tiger conservation has grown significantly. The total number of displaced individuals is estimated to be around 5.5 lakh, a concerning figure for tribal communities and forest dwellers.
- Displacement Statistics:
- Around 5.5 lakh people affected
- 967% increase in displacement since 2021
- Some regions, such as Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan, show smaller levels of displacement
These figures underscore the scale of the issue and highlight the need for a more balanced approach to conservation that takes into account the needs of local communities.
Legal Concerns: Lack of Consent
The report also brings attention to a major legal concern regarding the displacement process. It points out that there is a lack of “free, prior, and informed consent,” which is a fundamental principle outlined in the Forest Rights Act and the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. These laws are designed to protect the rights of indigenous communities and ensure that their consent is obtained before any relocation takes place. However, the report claims that this process is often ignored, leaving affected communities without a say in decisions that directly impact their lives.
A Positive Example: Coexistence in Karnataka
Despite the negative impacts of Project Tiger in many areas, the RRAG report also highlights a positive example of coexistence between humans and wildlife. In Karnataka’s Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve, the Soliga tribe has lived harmoniously with tigers for many years. This peaceful coexistence has led to a significant increase in the tiger population within the reserve. The success of this model shows that it is possible for both wildlife and local communities to thrive together. It also demonstrates that conservation efforts can be more effective when the rights and welfare of local people are respected.
Important Points:
- Report Findings: A report by the Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG), released on International Tiger Day, reveals that Project Tiger displaces around 5.5 lakh Scheduled Tribes and other forest dwellers.
- Surge in Displacement: Displacement of forest communities has increased dramatically, with an average surge of 967% since 2021 across protected areas.
- Regional Differences: Displacement figures are smaller in some areas, such as Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan, but still significant.
- Legal Issues: The report highlights a lack of “free, prior, and informed consent” for affected communities, violating principles of the Forest Rights Act and the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.
- Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve: A positive example of human-wildlife coexistence is found in Karnataka, where the Soliga tribe has lived harmoniously with tigers, leading to a significant increase in the tiger population.
- Need for a Balanced Approach: The report calls for a reassessment of Project Tiger’s strategy, advocating for a more inclusive conservation model that protects both tiger populations and the rights of local communities.
- Inclusive Conservation: Successful conservation efforts, like in Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve, show that respecting the rights of local communities can lead to better outcomes for both wildlife and humans.
- Call for Change: The report urges a more respectful and balanced approach to conservation that includes the needs and rights of forest-dwelling communities alongside tiger protection.
Why In News
A report by the Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG), released on International Tiger Day, highlights that Project Tiger will displace approximately 5.5 lakh Scheduled Tribes and other forest dwellers, raising concerns about the social and economic impact on these vulnerable communities who have lived in these forests for generations.
MCQs about Displacement Due to Project Tiger
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What is the main issue highlighted in the RRAG report released on International Tiger Day?
A. The increase in the tiger population due to conservation efforts
B. The lack of funding for Project Tiger
C. The displacement of Scheduled Tribes and forest dwellers due to Project Tiger
D. The effectiveness of wildlife protection laws in India
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What legal principle is being ignored in the displacement process, according to the RRAG report?
A. The Right to Information Act
B. Free, prior, and informed consent
C. The Right to Education Act
D. The Wildlife Protection Act of 2002
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Which of the following reserves is cited as a positive example of human-wildlife coexistence?
A. Kanha Tiger Reserve
B. Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve
C. Jim Corbett National Park
D. Sundarbans Tiger Reserve
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