A.P. Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, Maharashtra CM discuss tiger conservation and inter-State cooperation

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan on Tuesday met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the latter’s camp office in Mumbai and discussed issues of mutual interest of both the States, with a key focus on wildlife conservation and efforts to strengthen the tiger population in the Eastern Ghats.

Both discussed collaborative measures for tiger conservation and agreed to enhance cooperation on matters of mutual interest. A major outcome of the meeting was Maharashtra’s decision to provide two female tigers to Andhra Pradesh as part of efforts to improve the genetic health of the tiger population in the Eastern Ghats.

Expressing gratitude to the Maharashtra government, Mr. Pawan Kalyan said that the number of female tigers in the Eastern Ghats has declined significantly, raising concerns about inbreeding and reduced genetic diversity. The relocation of two tigresses from Maharashtra would play a crucial role in restoring a healthy breeding population. 

“The introduction of female tigers will help overcome inbreeding issues, enhance genetic diversity and ensure the long-term sustainability of the tiger population in the Eastern Ghats,” he said.

Mr. Pawan Kalyan said that the initiative would contribute to the development of a healthy and self-sustaining tiger habitat in the region while reflecting the commitment of both Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra to scientific wildlife management and biodiversity conservation.

Describing the collaboration as a significant milestone in the conservation history of the Eastern Ghats, he expressed confidence that the partnership between the two states would substantially strengthen long-term tiger conservation efforts.

The Deputy Chief Minister also thanked Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, for his continued guidance and support in advancing the conservation programme. 

Andhra Pradesh would continue to work closely with the Central Government, Maharashtra and other partner agencies to promote wildlife conservation and protect biodiversity, he said.