The reintroduction of a three-year-old tigress named T138 into the core zone of the Buxa Tiger Reserve in West Bengal marks the beginning of the state’s inaugural tiger reintroduction initiative. This event took place on October 2, 2026, and was officiated by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari alongside the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav. The tigress was transported from the Valmiki Tiger Reserve located in Bihar.

This release aligns with the nationwide observance of National Wildlife Week, highlighting the importance of species protection. During the occasion, Yadav noted that the reintroduction project reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to landscape conservation and biodiversity preservation.

Yadav stated, “This represents a significant promise fulfilled to reintroduce a tiger in Buxa, with T138 now part of the natural ecosystem here.” He expressed gratitude towards Bihar’s Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for their support in this venture.

Restoration Efforts and Government Cooperation

In a press briefing following the release, Yadav elaborated on the extensive efforts undertaken to revive the tiger population in the region. He highlighted that studies were initiated to determine the reasons for the disappearance of tigers from Buxa, leading to the involvement of conservation experts and ecologists from across India. Yadav noted, “We recognised that this area was historically suitable for tigers and that they could once again thrive here.”

He also pointed out that previous administrative inaction hindered conservation efforts, alleging that the former state government neglected to respond to the Centre’s appeals for action. In contrast, he praised the current administration for its swift response and implementation of crucial conservation work.

Since 2018, significant progress has been made, with Yadav stating, “What could not be achieved in eight years has been accomplished within a few months.” He emphasised that the reserve is now equipped with a sufficient prey base capable of supporting a stable tiger population.

Ecological Enhancements in Buxa Tiger Reserve

The restoration and management of the Buxa Tiger Reserve has been a methodical process, initiated with the backing of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). This collaborative effort has focused on enhancing the ecological parameters that sustain tiger populations, including habitat improvement and prey availability. Over 800 chital, a significant herbivore species, have been reintroduced to bolster the prey base.

The ongoing conservation strategy has also entailed the voluntary relocation of two villages to optimise the habitat for tigers. Bhupender Yadav confirmed that these initiatives are supported by scientific assessments that indicate a growing trend in prey abundance within the reserve.

Historically, Buxa has been recognised as an essential tiger habitat in North Bengal. Established as a tiger reserve in 1983, it connects to protected areas in Bhutan and Assam. However, habitat degradation and a decline in prey availability over the years compromised the ecological integrity crucial for sustaining a tiger population, leading to a notable absence of tigers.

On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti and Swachh Bharat Diwas, Yadav participated in a cleanliness campaign within the Buxa Tiger Reserve, further underlining the government’s commitment to wildlife conservation and ecological restoration. The initiative demonstrates a long-term vision for both the local ecosystem and the broader conservation goals within the region.

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