Uttarakhand okays Special Tiger Protection Force in two reserves
Source:newindianexpress ↗
Why It Matters
Crucial for understanding institutional measures taken by the Uttarakhand government to protect endangered species like tigers in Corbett and Rajaji reserves, directly linking to environmental governance questions in UKPSC exams.
Summary
The Uttarakhand government has approved the formation of a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) for Corbett and Rajaji Tiger Reserves to boost anti-poaching measures, protect endangered wildlife, and honor frontline forest staff.
Key Points
- The Uttarakhand government has okayed the establishment of a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) in two major tiger reserves: Corbett Tiger Reserve and Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
- The initiative aims to curb poaching, strengthen wildlife security, and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts in the state's sensitive forest ecosystems.
- The cabinet decision also focuses on acknowledging and rewarding frontline wildlife protectors and forest personnel ("wildlife saviours").
Important Terms
Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)
A specialized security force created within tiger reserves to combat poaching, illegal logging, and wildlife crimes through dedicated patrolling and intelligence gathering.
UPSC context
Relevant for UKPSC Mains (Paper V / Environment & Ecology) and Prelims, testing wildlife security measures and reserve management in Uttarakhand.
Project Tiger
A centrally sponsored wildlife conservation program launched in 1973 to ensure a viable population of Bengal tigers in their natural habitats across India.
UPSC context
Crucial for UKPSC Prelims and Mains (Environment and Biodiversity Conservation), testing statutory frameworks, reserve locations, and conservation schemes.
Static Concepts Connected
What are the key provisions and funding structure of the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)?
- Funding Pattern: Project Tiger scheme finances 100% of the cost for raising, arming, and deploying the STPF in sensitive tiger reserves.
- Composition: Consists of armed paramilitary-style personnel headed by an Assistant Conservator of Forests or Forest Ranger to combat organized poaching rings.
- Legal Backing: Authorized under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, acting as a dedicated second tier of security for tigers and their habitats.
Cross-Topic Patterns
STPF rollout meets Project Tiger mandates
Uttarakhand's establishment of STPF bridges state administrative governance (forest department restructuring) with national biodiversity targets under Project Tiger.
Tiger reserves vs. Hill community livelihoods
Tiger conservation units in Corbett and Rajaji intersect directly with eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) delisting debates and tribal rights in Uttarakhand's hill districts.
Expect matching questions on tiger reserves, their locations, and special protection forces like STPF in Uttarakhand PCS prelims.
Linked PYQs · 3
Linked PYQs · 3
- 2024UKPSC_PRELIMSGS1
Which of the following National Park of Uttarakhand has been included in Project Tiger Scheme in 2015 ?
- 2007UKPSC_PRELIMSGS1
In Uttarakhand which of the following wild life reserve is a Tiger Reserve?
- 2016UKPSC_PRELIMSGS1
Which of the following National Parks of Uttarakhand has been included in 'Project Tiger Scheme' in 2016?
