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Telangana Yet to Unlock Tiger Reserve Economy Despite Forest Wealth

Telangana Yet to Unlock Tiger Reserve Economy Despite Forest Wealth
Telangana Yet to Unlock Tiger Reserve Economy Despite Vast Forest Wealth · deccanchronicle.com

Tigers live in special protected places in India called tiger reserves.

A study says 16 of these reserves together are worth about 5.96 lakh crore rupees.

That value comes from clean water, fresh air, and from people who visit to see tigers.

Some states, like Karnataka, have built safaris, hotels, and guide jobs around their reserves.

This creates money and jobs for local people.

Telangana has two very large tiger reserves, Amrabad and Kawal, but not many tourists visit them yet.

The state is now planning homestays and safari experiences to attract visitors.

Officials say when local people earn from tourism, they help protect the tigers.

Some experts warn that tigers also need strong protection and that tribal families should not lose their homes without new jobs.

So Telangana wants to build a wildlife economy that helps both tigers and people.

Key facts

State
Telangana, India
Amrabad Tiger Reserve area
~2,611 sq km
Kawal Tiger Reserve area
~2,015 sq km
Economic value of 16 Indian tiger reserves
₹5.96 lakh crore
Annual ecosystem benefit per hectare
₹30,000–₹1 lakh
Bandipur annual ecosystem service benefits
~₹6,406 crore
Bandipur ecosystem asset value
~₹14,966 crore
Return on each ₹1 invested in Bandipur
~₹716

Quotes

Forest department official

Telangana forest official outlining infrastructure plans

“Tourist inflow has remained low, but the forest department is working to change that. NTCA has prioritised Kawal for strengthening tiger populations, and proposals including animal exchange have been submitted. The Telangana Forest Development Corporation has also partnered with Deccan Woods and Trails to develop innovative homestays, safari experiences and other eco‑tourism facilities. It will take years to turn profitable.”
deccanchronicle.com
“The state needs to create sustainable employment around tiger reserves. When local communities benefit economically through tourism, guiding, hospitality or conservation work, they become active stakeholders in protecting wildlife. This reduces conflict and encourages people to conserve rather than retaliate when incidents involving wild animals occur.”
deccanchronicle.com

Sources

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