NEW DELHI: In a major push to strengthen tiger conservation, the Supreme Court on Monday directed all states to demarcate and officially notify the core and buffer areas of their tiger reserves within six months, and to prepare comprehensive Tiger Conservation Plans (TCPs) within three months.
Delivering one of his final judgments before retiring on November 23, a bench led by CJI B. R. Gavai also ordered the creation of a steering committee headed by the chief minister for each tiger reserve within two months. These committees will oversee the implementation of recommendations made by an expert panel set up by the Union environment ministry following earlier SC directions.
Tourism practices within tiger reserves face significant tightening. Citing the expert committee’s findings, the court said tourism must strictly follow National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) guidelines. The panel has recommended designating tiger reserves and adjoining eco-sensitive zones as ‘silence zones’, phasing out night safaris, and prohibiting tourists from staying in core areas after dark. For religious sites located inside reserves, the Court said the influx of devotees must be regulated to prevent disturbance to wildlife.
A key part of the judgment focused on improving the working conditions of forest guards and frontline staff. The Court directed the environment ministry and the Central Empowered Committee to create a special cell to review staffing patterns and cadre requirements across all tiger reserves and submit a report within a year. States must then fill all required posts accordingly.
The Court also barred states from outsourcing core patrolling duties, scientific roles, and other essential positions, stressing that these responsibilities must remain with trained forest personnel. It further directed that forest staff be allowed to retain accommodation at a place of their choice while serving in remote postings.
