- International Tiger Day is celebrated on July 29 every year to raise awareness of big cat conservation and the threats they face in the wild.
- The main objective of International Tiger Day is to protect and expand the natural habitats of tigers, which are home to many other species and ecosystems.
- Tigers are the largest of the world’s big cats and can be easily identified by their distinctive orange and black stripes. They are also known for their power, grace, and beauty.
- However, tigers are also one of the most endangered animals on the planet. In the last century, 97% of all wild tigers have disappeared, leaving only about 3,000 of them remaining.
- The main reasons for their decline are habitat loss, poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change. Tigers have lost more than 90% of their original range and now occupy only 7% of it.
- Poaching and illegal trade of tiger parts are also serious threats to their survival. Demand for tiger bone, skin, and other body parts is driven by traditional medicine, fashion, and status symbols.
- India is home to the largest number of wild tigers in the world, with about 3,000 individuals as of 2019. India has also launched several initiatives to conserve tigers, such as Project Tiger in 1973 and Project TX2 in 2010.
- However, India also faces challenges such as increasing human population, development pressures, and poaching. Some tiger reserves are nearing their carrying capacity and need more space for tigers to thrive.
- International Tiger Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of tiger conservation and to renew our commitment to save these magnificent creatures. It is also a day to appreciate the cultural and ecological value of tigers and their role in maintaining a healthy environment.
- There are many ways to get involved in International Tiger Day, such as spreading awareness, donating to conservation organizations, supporting anti-poaching efforts, and avoiding products made from tiger parts.
- International Tiger Day is also a day to enjoy the beauty and diversity of tigers through art, literature, and cinema. There are many films that feature tigers as protagonists or plot drivers, such as ‘Roar’, ‘Life of Pi’, ‘Shikar’ and ‘Ek Tha Tiger’.
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