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Tiger Economy: Protecting the big cat makes economic sense(Edit Page, |
HOMEWe've heard all the pious arguments before the tiger is on top of the food chain pyramid, it was once a vehicle of the gods, it is a symbol of our national pride. But clearly none of these has prevented poachers from systematically decimating the big cat for profit; India's tiger population has now dipped below 2,000. But are they really profiting? Is a dead tiger worth more than a live one? The answer is an unequivocal no. A dead tiger will fetch $50,000 in the black market. But if India were to play its cards well, it stands to gain $30 million from tourists who come solely to see the magnificent beast in its habitat. And they will keep returning. Think of the spin-offs from this traffic. First, tourist spending would boost the local economies of areas in which sanctuaries are situated. It would also mean a boost in employment for those associated with the tourist trade. In short, killing the tiger is like killing the golden goose. After the Taj Mahal, the Indian tiger is arguably the biggest draw for tourists both in India and abroad. People have been known to wait for days on end for a glimpse of the lord of the jungle. The sheer wait, often without a tiger sighting, is said to be one of the most exhilarating experiences in the visit to 'Incredible India'. We should take a leaf from other countries which have projected one or other species as a big tourist draw. China advertises its elusive panda as a major tourist attraction, no one comes back from Australia without seeing the cuddly koala bear and far-flung Galapagos Island draws hordes of visitors who flock there to see the giant turtle sunning itself on the rocks. This is not to say that tourism alone will save the tiger; we need conservation measures alongside. But what is required is to give people, especially those who live in the vicinity of tiger reserves, an economic stake in keeping the animal alive. While conservationists may be appalled at commercialising the big cat, this is its only chance of survival. We have seen that strict penalties and restricted access to reserves have done little to prevent poachers from killing tigers at will. Despite awareness campaigns, the myth that the tiger's body parts boost strength and courage still persists. It is only by convincing people that they are harming their own economic interests by killing the tiger that they will realise the merits of conservation. They must be made aware that killing the tiger brings in a one-time profit, keeping it alive means a sustained income. Surely, the choice will then be obvious. |
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