WildBuffalo – Chhattisgarh Revises Conservation Strategy After Sharp Population Decline
WildBuffalo – The Chhattisgarh Forest Department has initiated a major change in its wildlife conservation approach after a steep decline in the population of wild buffaloes in the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. Internal department records indicate that officials are reassessing earlier conservation methods that heavily relied on non-governmental organisations without a clearly defined accountability system.
The wild buffalo, recognised as the state animal of Chhattisgarh and protected under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, once had a stable presence in the reserve. Official figures show the population dropped dramatically from around 80 animals in 1996 to only seven by 2007, raising serious concerns among wildlife experts and forest authorities.
Review of Earlier Conservation Efforts
Documents reviewed by officials suggest that previous conservation programmes did not achieve the expected results. A breeding and conservation initiative launched during 2006-07 in partnership with the Wildlife Trust of India reportedly failed to restore the shrinking population. At present, the reserve is said to have only one surviving pure-bred male wild buffalo, locally known as “Chotu,” estimated to be around 23 years old. In addition, authorities identified 19 hybrid buffaloes in the region.
Forest Department officials have reportedly concluded that excessive dependence on a single external organisation weakened oversight and slowed corrective action. The new assessment highlights the need for stronger monitoring and direct departmental responsibility in future wildlife projects.
Forest Department to Lead Future Projects
Under the revised strategy, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department plans to reduce the role of NGOs in sensitive wildlife conservation activities. Official communication indicates that future participation of outside organisations will remain limited and clearly defined, while overall responsibility for project outcomes will rest with the department itself.
Authorities believe this approach will improve transparency and ensure better implementation of conservation measures. Officials also acknowledged that public criticism had increased over the years due to large spending on conservation programmes while local infrastructure needs in nearby communities remained unresolved.
According to departmental estimates, previous conservation activities involved annual expenditures of nearly Rs 25 lakh. The revised framework aims to create a more balanced and scientifically managed programme while improving coordination with local residents.
Scientific Institutions to Play Key Role
The department now intends to work closely with technical experts from institutions such as the Wildlife Institute of India and other recognised wildlife research organisations. Officials believe scientific guidance and long-term ecological planning are necessary to rebuild the endangered population sustainably.
One of the key priorities under the new plan is maintaining the genetic purity of the species. The department’s strategy aligns with earlier Supreme Court directions discouraging inter-breeding between wild buffaloes and domestic or hybrid animals.
To support the revival process, three healthy female wild buffaloes from Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary have been selected for relocation to Udanti. Before release, the animals will remain in a quarantine enclosure spread across 10 hectares for around 45 days. Afterward, they will be fitted with GPS and VHF radio collars to allow real-time monitoring of their movement and safety.
Focus on Habitat Stability and Monitoring
Officials stated that improved monitoring systems are expected to help prevent human-wildlife conflict and reduce the risk of cross-breeding. The department also noted that a male tiger previously recorded in the tiger reserve has reportedly moved nearly 200 kilometres away, which may create a safer environment for the small buffalo population to recover.
Wildlife experts consider the coming years crucial for the future of the species in Chhattisgarh. Authorities hope that stronger scientific involvement, stricter supervision, and a more accountable management structure will help rebuild the population of the endangered state animal in its natural habitat.