Pawan Kalyan Reaffirms AP Government's Commitment to Tiger Conservation

On the occasion of International Tiger Day, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan stated that tigers are not only India's national animal but also a symbol of biodiversity, ecological balance, and the nation's rich forest heritage. He said protecting tigers is essential to safeguarding forests, water resources, wildlife, and the natural legacy for future generations. Highlighting India's remarkable success under Project Tiger, he noted that nearly 75 percent of the world's wild tiger population now lives in the country. He also expressed pride that Andhra Pradesh is home to the Nagarjunasagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR), the largest tiger reserve in India, where recent estimates recorded 68 tigers and 11 cubs across the NSTR–Seshachalam landscape.

Pawan Kalyan said the coalition government has intensified scientific conservation initiatives by strengthening anti-poaching measures, expanding grasslands, increasing prey populations, and deploying drones, camera traps, and advanced surveillance systems. He announced that anti-poaching camps in NSTR will be increased from 89 to 150, creating employment opportunities for nearly 800 tribal youth. He also thanked Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav for facilitating the proposed relocation of four female tigers from Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh to enhance the tiger population and genetic diversity in the Eastern Ghats. Reaffirming the government's commitment to environmental conservation, he called upon citizens, forest officials, scientists, tribal communities, and wildlife enthusiasts to work together to ensure that the roar of the tiger continues to echo across the Nallamala forests.