Kamlang Tiger Reserve [KTR]

Context :

In October this year, the state cabinet of Arunachal Pradesh approved the constitution of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) as per the guidelines of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for 3 tiger reserves –  Kamlang,Namdapha and Pakke.

About KTR:

1. The Kamlang Tiger Reserve which was established in 1989 became the 50th Tiger reserve in India in 2017.
2. Popular River : The tiger reserve is named after the River Kamlang which flows through it. River Lang  forms its northern border whereas Namdapha National Park forms its southern border.
3. Demographic dynamics : Tribals in and around the reserve : Mishmi, Miju Mishmi and Digaro Mishmi.
4. Notable fauna : it houses 4 big cat species of India- leopard, clouded leopard , tiger and snow leopard. Also found ; Marbled cat, Wild boar, Barking deer, Asian Elephant,  Black Giant Squirrel, Eastern hoolock gibbon etc.
5. Notable Flora: Canarium resiniferum, Gmelina arborea, Terminalia chebula and Amoora wallichii
6. Climatic zone : It is located in the tropical and subtropical climatic zones.
7. Picturesque sites : Glow Lake and the "Parshuram Kund", a native pilgrimage place.
8. Type of Forest : Tropical wet evergreen and Alpine vegetation

Need for STPF in the reserve ?

1. Poaching Threat: STPF is crucial to combat the persistent threat of poaching, safeguarding India's tiger population from illegal hunting for their body parts.
2. Habitat Encroachment: Rapid urbanization and encroachment demand a specialized force to prevent habitat destruction, ensuring a secure environment for tigers to thrive.
3. Human-Wildlife Conflict:  STPF can address escalating human-wildlife conflicts by employing strategic measures to minimize clashes and promote coexistence in tiger-inhabited areas.
4. Smuggling Networks: A dedicated force is essential to dismantle smuggling networks involved in the illegal trade of tiger parts, disrupting the demand and supply chain.
5. Law Enforcement:  STPF enhances law enforcement capabilities, ensuring stricter implementation of wildlife protection laws and acting as a deterrent against potential threats to tiger populations.

Establishing and empowering STPF units nationwide, enhancing their training, technology, and collaboration with local communities to create a comprehensive approach for effective tiger conservation.

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