Two Conflict Tigers in Nagpur to Be Released Back Into Wild After Health Clearance
In a rare conservation decision, the Maharashtra Forest Department has approved the release of two tigers involved in human-wildlife conflict back into the wild. The state-level committee found both animals fit for rehabilitation after health and behavioural assessments.
The two male tigers, identified as TUI-22 and TUI-25, are approximately four years old. They were captured in March this year from separate locations in the Nagpur forest division following conflict incidents. TUI-22 was linked to the death of a woman and repeated livestock kills in Deolapar. TUI-25, captured from Parseoni, was involved only in cattle depredation cases.
After capture, both tigers were shifted to the Transit Treatment Centre (TTC) at Seminary Hills in Nagpur. Veterinary examinations confirmed them to be healthy, disease-free, and capable of surviving in the wild. Formal orders for their release were issued on May 11.
Officials stated that the tigers will be soft released at separate locations after temperatures ease. A soft release involves acclimatising the animals to their new environment gradually, often using an enclosure before full release. This method aims to increase survival chances.
The decision marks a significant step in wildlife conservation, as conflict tigers are often kept in captivity or relocated to rescue centres. The committee's assessment considered both the animals' physical health and their behavioural suitability for independent survival.
The exact release locations and dates have not been disclosed to ensure the safety of the tigers and local communities. Forest officials will monitor the tigers post-release using radio collars to track their movements and prevent further conflicts.
