In a significant move towards wildlife conservation, the state government of Rajasthan has proposed the creation of the fifth tiger reserve in the state, encompassing areas in both Dholpur and Karauli districts. This proposal has been submitted to the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests, and once approved, it will bring new protections to over 108 villages across 31 gram panchayats.
According to Naharsingh, Deputy Forest Conservator of Wildlife in Dholpur district, the new tiger reserve will incorporate five major wildlife sanctuaries in the area: Kesarbagh, Van Vihar, Ramsagar, Chambal Sanctuary, and Dholpur Sanctuary. Together, these regions form the core area of the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve, spanning approximately 599 square kilometers. The core area has already been officially designated, while a buffer zone has been mapped out and included in the proposal sent to the central government.
Wildlife officials have noted the presence of a healthy tiger population, including a male and female tiger along with three cubs, who inhabit the reserve area. In addition to tigers, the region’s forests are known for their significant populations of panthers, bears, and other wild species, especially within the Sarmautha area of Dholpur. A female tiger has been observed frequently moving between Dholpur and Karauli forest zones, indicating a strong presence and natural movement of wildlife within the area.
Upon approval from the Union Ministry, work on establishing the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve will begin swiftly, making it a critical step towards strengthening wildlife protection and biodiversity in Rajasthan.