Expansion of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve
Sundarbans Tiger Reserve becomes second largest in India: The Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (STR) has officially moved to the second position in size among India’s tiger reserves after the National Board of Wildlife (NBWL) approved the West Bengal government’s proposal for expansion. This upgrade places STR just behind the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve in Andhra Pradesh.
The development is significant as India is home to 58 tiger reserves, which are crucial parts of the Project Tiger network dedicated to conserving the Bengal tiger.
Static GK fact: Project Tiger was launched in 1973 and is one of the world’s most extensive conservation programmes.
Legal framework and process
Tiger reserves are created under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, specifically Section 38V. The responsibility lies with state governments, but the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) provides guidance and approval.
The process includes an initial proposal by the state, a detailed review by NTCA, followed by state notification. For altering boundaries, Section 38W of the same Act mandates that both NTCA and the NBWL must approve the changes.
Static GK fact: The NTCA was formed in 2005 to give legal backing and strengthen tiger protection measures.
Features of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve
The Sundarbans, located in the southern districts of West Bengal, are globally unique for being the only mangrove forests that support a large tiger population. This feature makes the region a critical zone for biodiversity and climate protection.
The reserve is bordered by the Bay of Bengal to the south, Bangladesh to the east (demarcated by the Harinbhanga, Raimangal, and Kalindi rivers), the Matla River to the west, and the Bidya and Gomdi rivers in the north-west.
Its core National Park has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the entire reserve falls within the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve.
Static GK fact: The Indian Sundarbans cover nearly 4,200 sq km, while the larger ecosystem spreads across both India and Bangladesh.
Importance of the expansion
With the expansion, STR strengthens its role in India’s tiger conservation strategy. The country holds over 75% of the global tiger population, and the Sundarbans play a dual role in species survival and ecosystem stability.
The mangroves act as natural barriers against cyclones, protect inland areas from erosion, and sustain a wide range of species including estuarine crocodiles, fishing cats, and migratory birds.
Static GK fact: India’s 2022 Tiger Census recorded 3,167 tigers, the highest number globally.
Balancing development and conservation
While the expansion of STR highlights environmental protection, other states are pursuing technology-driven projects. Recently, Maharashtra signed an agreement with TuTr Hyperloop Pvt Ltd, an IIT Madras startup, to develop India’s first hyperloop transport system. Both moves reflect India’s focus on progress that balances infrastructure growth with ecological responsibility.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Sundarbans Tiger Reserve becomes second largest in India:
| Topic | Detail |
| Total Tiger Reserves in India | 58 |
| Largest Tiger Reserve | Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh) |
| Second Largest Tiger Reserve | Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (West Bengal) |
| Law Governing Tiger Reserves | Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 |
| Authority for Tiger Conservation | National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) |
| Approval Body for Expansion | National Board of Wildlife (NBWL) |
| Project Tiger Launch Year | 1973 |
| UNESCO Status of Sundarbans | World Heritage Site since 1987 |
| Tiger Population in India (2022) | 3,167 |
| Unique Feature of STR | Only mangrove habitat with tiger population |
