By Bhakti Kothari

Nauradehi Sanctuary or Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, once devoid of its apex predators, now echoes with the powerful sounds of 19 tigers. This remarkable comeback story is not just about numbers, but about resilience, adaptation, and the unwavering dedication of the Forest Department. It’s a tale of two tigers, Radha and Kishan, who defied the odds and carved their own destinies in a new land.

Indian Masterminds exclusively spoke with the DFO of the sanctuary, IFS officer Abdul Ansari, to learn about the success story of Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve.

BLEAK PAST AND HOPEFUL PRESENT

In 1998, the tiger population in this area ranged from 15 to 20. However, due to factors like hunting, the tiger count steadily declined, reaching a point in 2011 where not a single tiger remained. Subsequently, a tiger settlement initiative commenced in 2017, marking the inception of the narrative featuring tigress Radha and tiger Kishan.

Currently, the resounding roars of 19 tigers echo through the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, all belonging to the lineage of Radha and Kishan. The process of establishing these tigers in Nauradehi proved to be a formidable challenge.

Read the full story https://indianmasterminds.com/features/beyond-headlines/how-veerangana-durgavati-tr-went-from-0-to-19-tigers/