New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended greetings to wildlife enthusiasts on Global Tiger Day and said India shelters nearly 70 per
cent of the world’s tiger population.
In a post on X, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to science-based conservation, community participation and sustainable development.
“Greetings to all wildlife enthusiasts on Global Tiger Day. The people of India are proud of the fact that we are home to almost 70% of the global tiger population. India’s tiger conservation efforts are inspired by our centuries-old culture of living in harmony with nature and powered by the collective will of our people. We also reaffirm our commitment to science-based conservation, community participation and sustainable development that strengthens tiger conservation,” the PM wrote.
Conservation workers praised
In a separate statement, the PM praised forest personnel, scientists and conservationists for their contribution to tiger protection.
“The efforts and dedication of our forest personnel, scientists and conservationists have also played a key role in tiger protection. In that spirit, India remains committed to empowering local communities and reducing human-wildlife conflict,” he said.
The prime minister said India would continue to support local communities and work to reduce conflict between humans and wildlife.
Protecting entire ecosystems
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said tiger conservation was crucial for protecting the country’s natural resources and ecosystems.
“The story of the tiger is the story of our forests, our rivers and our shared future. This Global Tiger Day, watch how conserving one magnificent species helps protect an entire ecosystem,” the ministry said in a post on X.
Sand art at Puri
Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik marked Global Tiger Day by creating a 10-foot-long tiger sculpture at Puri beach.
“On the occasion of Global Tiger Day, we created this 10-ft long tiger sand art. Together with WWF (World Wildlife Fund), we create a unique sand sculpture every year to raise global tiger awareness on Global Tiger Day. This year too, we have done it. WWF India is creating awareness about securing the home and vicinity of tigers. Just like we keep our home secure, it is the responsibility of all of us to keep tigers safe. We have depicted a tiger and its cubs, showing how happy they are in their abode,” Pattnaik said.
Global Tiger Day is observed every year on July 29. It seeks to promote international efforts to protect the natural habitats of tigers and increase public awareness about the conservation of wild tigers.
