India’s first comprehensive database on Tiger mortality and crime launched
04/02/2010 15:00:03
Tiger crime to be tracked
February 2010. There has been a legitimate concern in India for quite some time now about the veracity of Tiger mortalities, especially in relation to wildlife crime. Information has often been contradictory and unclear. To tackle this problem, TRAFFIC India joined hands with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to develop and maintain an online database on Tiger mortalities and tiger crime in India.
Track every tiger death
The principal objective is to track each and every Tiger death in India and make this data available to various agencies for necessary action. The website was launched in January 2010 by Mr Jairam Ramesh, Hon. Minister of State, Environment and Forests. Tigernet aims to bring in greater transparency and clarity in the process of tracking and evaluating Tiger mortality in India. Chief Wildlife Wardens and Field Directors of Project Tiger Reserves are able to log on to the website to load and view significant data related to Tiger mortality and crime. The website also collects data on seizure of Tiger products across the country.
Poaching trends
The data collected by the website will help in evaluating trends of poaching, regional and national significance of Tiger mortality and provide pointers for effective moves to be undertaken on the ground to mitigate the problem. Therefore, It is anticipated that the new website will simplify the whole Tiger mortality reporting system and allow a more accurate and transparent picture to be generated of poaching and other threats facing India’s Tiger population. Automatic reminders will be sent to official staff to upload details surrounding any Tiger mortalities, including the findings of post mortem examinations.
The website also provides a resource for concerned citizens to send in details about wildlife crime that they may be aware of. It is also hoped that it will engender a spirit of honesty and cooperation among all major stakeholders in Tiger conservation prompting action to save the majestic predator of the Indian jungles.
Every Tiger counts….
