New Delhi, India, July 29, 205 — Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, presided over the celebrations of Global Tiger Day 2025, which were held today at the National Zoological Park in New Delhi.
July 29, celebrated as International Tiger Day, is much more than just a date on the calendar — it is a poignant moment for reflection and appreciation of one of nature’s most awe-inspiring creations. On this day, we honor the majestic tiger, a symbol of strength and grace, known for its fierce spirit and unyielding freedom. Happy International Tiger Day! Let us come together to champion the wild and protect the beautiful habitats that these incredible creatures call home.
During the event, the Minister highlighted the importance of maintaining ecological balance and fostering conservation awareness among children and expressed gratitude towards nature. Shri Yadav praised schools and teachers for their efforts in educating young minds about wildlife conservation and the preservation of biodiversity.
He emphasized the government’s dedication to wildlife conservation, stating, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the number of tiger reserves in India has grown from 46 in 2014 to 58 today. This increase demonstrates the Prime Minister’s strong commitment to protecting our national animal.”
The Minister announced the launch of a nationwide tree plantation drive, during which over 100,000 saplings will be planted across all 58 tiger reserves, making it one of the most extensive campaigns of its kind in the world.
Mr. Yadav also highlighted the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), initiated by India, which aims to protect the seven big cat species found globally. He mentioned that 24 countries have already agreed to join this global initiative, with the IBCA headquarters to be established in India.
A notable feature of the 2025 celebrations was the Eco-Shop Exhibition, which showcased eco-shops from various Tiger Reserves throughout the country. The exhibition included stalls offering a diverse range of community-based sustainable products and eco-development items sourced from the Western Ghats and Southern landscapes. These products exemplify a harmonious blend of cultural heritage and ecological responsibility.
The Minister also unveiled four important publications that each highlight a unique aspect of India’s wildlife conservation efforts under the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA):
- A report titled “Status of Small Cats in the Tiger Landscape of India.”
- STRIPES Magazine – a special edition for Global Tiger Day.
- A book titled “Waterfalls of Tiger Reserves in India.”
- A book titled “Water Bodies Inside Tiger Reserves of India.”
The celebrations for Global Tiger Day 2025 highlight India’s enduring commitment to tiger conservation. They showcase a unified approach that combines grassroots involvement with policy-level strategies. It reflects an understanding that ecological integrity, community well-being, and international cooperation are vital for ensuring the long-term survival of tigers in the wild.
Source: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India
Surender Hastir 