Periyar Tiger Reserve : Conservation Model under Financial Scrutiny
Context
The Kerala Finance Inspection Wing has recently flagged financial irregularities at the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR). The report revealed the diversion of tourism-generated revenue into a “Park Welfare Fund” without prior government approval. Such practices raise concerns over financial accountability and the transparent management of protected areas.
About Periyar Tiger Reserve
What it is:
- A protected area and Project Tiger Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity.
- Recognized as the Best Managed Tiger Reserve (2022) by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under the Management Effectiveness Assessment.
- Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Western Ghats.
Location:
- Situated in the Cardamom and Pandalam Hills of the Southern Western Ghats, Kerala.
- Spread across Idukki, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta districts.
History:
- Declared as the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950.
- Included under Project Tiger in 1978, becoming India’s 10th Tiger Reserve.
- Introduced the Periyar Model of participatory forest management, which successfully transformed poachers into protectors.
Key Features:
Flora & Fauna:
- Home to iconic species like Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Gaur, Leopard, and Wild Dog.
- Supports 7 endemic fish species and 3 unique endemic plant species.
Community Involvement:
- Functions through 81 Eco-Development Committees (EDCs).
- Vasanthasena women’s group engages in sandalwood patrolling and plastic removal.
- Urali tribal communities are engaged in organic pepper cultivation, exported to international markets.
Tourism & Education:
- Facilities include Interpretation Centres, Kalari & Vanasree Halls, and an Amphitheatre.
- Nature Education programmes active since 1989, involving schools, NGOs, and media.
Innovations:
- Deployment of M-STrIPES app for patrolling and ecological monitoring.
- Creation of dog squad (‘Periyar Sniffers’) and VIPER task force for anti-poaching and rescue.
- Promotion of climate-resilient farming projects for tribal livelihoods.
Conclusion
The Periyar Tiger Reserve has emerged as a model of biodiversity conservation, community participation, and eco-tourism. However, the financial irregularities flagged in the recent report highlight the urgent need for transparent financial practices and greater government oversight. Ensuring accountability and integrity in fund management will allow PTR to continue as a benchmark in conservation and sustainable development.
Source : The Hindu
