Environment Minister urges students to help in tiger conservation

New Delhi, July 29 (IANS) Union Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave called on students, whom he described as "tigers", to help in the conservation of the big cats.

On the occasion of International Tiger Day on Friday, he also exhorted tourists from across the world to come to India to see the tiger in natural habitat. Their numbers in India stand at 2,226, comprising 70 per cent of the tigers across the world.

He said: "Students from various schools have gathered here today, because they all are themselves tigers."

"India has 2,226 tigers, which constitutes 70 per cent of the tigers the world over. The tigers are spread out in over 17 states and 49 sanctuaries across the country. A healthy tiger is a symbol of healthy environment," said Dave, according to a statement.

Dave expressed the hope that India will be able to double the number of its tigers by 2022 by conserving and caring for the big cats in their natural habitat.

He also emphasised that India was contributing significantly towards achieving the St. Petersburg target, commonly referred to as TX2.

Dave administered a pledge for tiger conservation to the gathering of students. Later, he flagged off the ‘Walk for the Tiger’ campaign.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority, along with conservation partners organised the 'Walk for the Tiger'. The event was organised in collaboration with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), Global Tiger Forum, WWF-India, Wildlife Trust of India, TRAFFIC, Kids for Tigers and Aircel.