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Manas National Park
Context:
A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Conservation has revealed a remarkable increase in the tiger population of Assam’s Manas National Park.
- The tiger population in the park has tripled from 2011 to 2019, marking a significant success in wildlife conservation efforts.
Tiger Population Density
- The density of adult tigers in Manas increased from 1.06 tigers/100 km² in 2011-12 to 3.64 tigers/100 km² in 2018-19.
- The tiger population has the potential to grow further and could reach 8 tigers/100 km², with continued effective conservation measures.
- By 2023, the tiger population in Manas could potentially double if conservation efforts remain strong.
- Current Tiger Population: In 2021, a total of 44 adult tigers were photographed in Manas, making it one of Assam’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites designated as tiger reserves (the other being Kaziranga National Park).
Factors Contributing to Recovery:
- The study attributes the turnaround to:
- Increased funding and improved protection infrastructure.
- A larger park management staff.
- Support from tourism revenue, which helped bolster the park’s management budget.
- Collaborative efforts from local communities, government agencies, and conservation organisations have been critical in the successful recovery of tiger populations, especially in a post-conflict environment.
About Manas National Park:
- Location: Manas National Park is situated on the foothills of the Himalayas in Assam, India, and extends to the borders of Bhutan.
- Area: The park spans an area of 2837 sq. km, offering a rich and diverse ecosystem.
- Manas River: The Manas River flows through the park, adding to the natural beauty and wildlife habitat.
- Flora: The park is rich in plant diversity, including trees, shrubs, herbs, bamboo, ferns, and grasses. The forests are pristine and unspoiled, showcasing a variety of unique plant species.
- Fauna:
- Endangered Species: Includes the Red Panda, Golden Langur, Pygmy Hog, Assam Roofed Turtle, and the Hispid Hare.
- Key Mammals: It is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Greater One-horned Rhinoceros, Clouded Leopard, and more.
- Bird Species: The park has recorded 450 species of birds, making it an important location for ornithologists and bird watchers.
- Reptiles & Snakes: The park also hosts about 50 species of reptiles, including 11 species of snakes.
Historical and Ecological Importance:
- National Park Status: Declared a national park in 1990.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: 1988 – Manas earned UNESCO recognition as a World Heritage Site for its exceptional biodiversity.
- Tiger Reserve: The first Tiger Reserve in Assam and the fifth in India, established under the Project Tiger initiative of 1973.
- Biosphere Reserve: Manas was designated as a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1989.
- Elephant Reserve: Manas was also recognised as an Elephant Reserve in 2003.
Challenges:
- Ongoing Threats: Despite successes, challenges such as poaching, habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict still persist.
- Carrying Capacity: The study warned that as tiger populations approach the park’s carrying capacity, continuous management will be necessary to ensure long-term survival.
Conservation Efforts:
- International agencies like Panthera and US Fish and Wildlife Services contributed resources from 2015-2022, working alongside local communities and park management.
- Park Staff Training: Park staff received training in improved patrol tactics, and local communities were educated on alternative, sustainable livelihoods, reducing park entry by dependent people.
